BestStart Allenton

Painting
Spaceships
Sandpit
Gardening
Police
St John
Experiment
Allenton-climbing
Ambulance
Allenton-lightbox
Allenton-cuddles
Allenton-feeding
Allenton-puzzle
BestStart is one of NZ's leading early childcare providers. BestStart Allenton in Ashburton provides affordable, high quality education and award winning childcare for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

Togetherness happens here at BestStart Allenton!

At BestStart Allenton, our local curriculum is shaped by the values and aspirations of our parents and kaiako for their tamariki. Our cultural narrative is inspired by the braided rivers in our area, symbolizing the journey children take through life. Just as each braid of the river is significant, so too are the influences of family, preschool, and community in a child's life.

Located next door to Allenton School in the growing town of Ashburton, we embrace our rural surroundings and the diverse cultures of our tamariki. We celebrate various cultural events, host an annual Christmas party, and have recently started the tradition of a Pink Ribbon Breakfast with our families.

Our centre features small learning environments tailored to each age group, including a dedicated toddler room with lower ratios to ensure a smooth transition before moving into the over-twos space. We also maintain a strong relationship with the neighboring Allenton School, fostering a seamless connection for our children as they progress in their educational journey.

Our Team

Our teachers take great pride in the strong relationships they build with both families and children. These connections ensure that family aspirations play a vital role in our planning and assessment cycle. By sharing knowledge with families about their children, we create a seamless link between home and the centre, fostering connected learning experiences.

Our kaiako are passionate about nurturing strong relationships with tamariki and whānau, supporting each child's growth into a confident and competent learner. Our philosophy is grounded in four core values: Relationships, Community, Respect, and Inclusive Practice.

What We Offer

  • 20 hours free for 3-5 year olds and WINZ subsidies available* if required
  • Regular Excursions into the community
  • Experienced tight-knit team of passionate teachers
  • Get Set for School Programme
  • Fresh, nutritious meals and snacks provided each day

Our Spaces

At our centre, we provide enriching and nurturing environments tailored to each age group. Our classrooms are designed to support the developmental needs of children, promoting exploration, learning, and growth. Each room is equipped with age-appropriate resources and activities, ensuring a safe and engaging space for all.

Our outdoor areas offer ample space for physical play and nature-based learning, fostering a connection with the environment. We believe in creating welcoming and inclusive settings where children can thrive, supported by passionate and dedicated kaiako.

Ruru & Takahe Room

0 - 18 months & 18 months - 2.5 years

Kereru Room

2.5 - 3.5 years old

Pukeko Room

3.5 years +

Video Gallery

Quality Services Award 2023

kind words from our parents

Parent

I have had all 3 of my girls enrolled here and they absolutely love and adore all the teachers and have formed some amazing friendships. My girls have developed and learnt so much and I believe that this has a lot to do with what they have been taught here.

Parent

My Children have been attending for the past 6 years and we have nothing but positive feedback for the care and love they have given my children. All the staff are so friendly and approachable and are there for my children and family

Parent

We have had four of our children attending for the past 7 years. From such a long relationship we have formed strong connections and all of our children were loved and cared for as they were supported in being prepared for life at school and beyond. We love the staff and all the amazing things they do for our children, it will be sad when our youngest goes to school.

LATEST STORIES FROM OUR BLOG

Emergency Services In Our Community

We were fortunate to have visit from our local ASB St John community educator

READ MORE
Group play in the sandpit

Our sandpit is a space that encourages working together with others on special projects

READ MORE
Constable Patterson's Visit

​During the holiday period we surprised the children with special visitors from our community

READ MORE