BestStart Apirana Avenue

Like a seed, our pēpi need a loving, respectful environment to help them grow. The RIE philosophy guides our room, with respectful practices and routines that meet each child’s individual needs. Learning occurs through play, with each child's milestones and development supported holistically and at their own pace. For example, we do not place children in physical positions they are not yet able to achieve independently.

To support our children to grow into confident, capable learners, we continue the RIE philosophy in our toddler room. This ensures respectful practices are embedded into daily routines and mat times, with a programme that prepares our tamariki for a smooth transition into the Rākau (preschool) room.

Set for School is a key part of the programme in this room, with daily learning experiences designed to support our tamariki in their transition to school. From literacy and numeracy activities to imaginative play in our family and fantasy playroom, and creative exploration in our construction room, children are encouraged to make their own decisions, experiment, and learn through play. This fosters their ability to plan, develop working theories, and implement their ideas.