BestStart Leeds Street

At BestStart Leeds Street, we are Urban Explorers!

BestStart Leeds Street is conveniently situated in the inner city of Wellington. However, we believe our learning environment extends beyond our property and into the surrounding city. We are urban explorers and can be seen out and about the central city every week. We explore the city for art whether it be the streets, art galleries or museums; we photograph it, draw it and have discussions about it.

We aim to empower all of our tamariki to learn through a holistic lens; providing them with plenty of support to be active explorers, researchers and decision makers in their own learning. We promote a collaborative approach to planning where meaningful relationships with whānau are a priority.

Our Centre culture is based around trusting and respectful relationships. Whānau are active contributors in our program and curriculum, playing a vital role in all decision-making. We host many whānau events that encourage relationship-building, networking, and a strong sense of belonging. An overview of our regular excursions and activities"

Monday: Cobblestone Park – (Every week 10:00am-11:00am) Age Group: 2.5 - 5 year olds

10-minute walk to our local park where we become community caretakers and environmental champions! This exciting project helps tamariki develop an understanding of sustainability, respect for the environment, and a sense of pride in our local Wellington community. Equipped with gloves and tongs, tamariki work together to safely collect and sort rubbish, learning how their actions can make a positive difference to the world around them. Along the way, we encourage conversations about caring for nature, protecting wildlife, and keeping our community beautiful. We also make time to explore, play, and enjoy the park, giving tamariki opportunities to build friendships, develop physical skills, and have fun outdoors while connecting with nature. 

Tuesday: Art Trip (Every week 9:30am-11:30am) Age Group: 4 - 5 year olds

Our Art Trip gives our oldest tamariki the opportunity to discover the beauty, character, and stories of our city through meaningful real-world experiences. Each week, our tamariki venture beyond the centre to explore different locations, developing a deeper sense of belonging within their community while building confidence and independence. Through observation, discussion, and artistic expression, children become interpreters of the world around them. They record their discoveries in special art journals, using drawing and watercolour techniques to reflect on what they have seen and experienced. These excursions support school readiness by strengthening communication, contribution, and creative thinking skills, while also developing fine motor control, focus, perseverance, and the ability to revisit and extend ideas. Along the way, tamariki learn about safe behaviour in public spaces, develop empathy for others, and gain a greater appreciation for the people and places that make their city unique. 

Thursday: Playball – (Every week during school term) 10:30am-12:00pm. Age Group: 2.5 - 5 year olds

Using sport as the means, playball provides children with a sound base from which to develop every aspect of their lives. The aim of Playball is to introduce young children to constructive and enjoyable sport participation through various age-appropriate programs. All of the programs have a "multi-activity" approach, ensuring a competent foundation in all the popular sports played at school. This is an external provider that comes in to the centre (we move the playground around to create space). It is an optional activity, and at each parents’ discretion whether they enrol their children. It is at an extra cost, separate to our fees which goes directly to the playball provider. 

Friday Nature Bush Walks – (Every second week 8:45am-11:30am) Age Group: 2.5 - 5 year olds

Our Bush Walks are a favourite adventure for our tamariki, combining the excitement of public transport with the wonder of exploring some of the city's most treasured natural spaces. The journey itself is part of the experience, helping children build confidence, independence, and a sense of connection to their wider community. Once immersed in the bush, tamariki are free to explore, discover, and engage with the natural world around them. They wander amongst towering native trees, fascinating plants, and vibrant flowers, while listening to the beautiful chorus of native birds calling overhead. Morning tea in nature provides a special opportunity to slow down, connect with friends, and appreciate the peaceful surroundings. These excursions nurture curiosity, respect for the environment, and a deep appreciation for the unique beauty of Aotearoa. Through hands-on exploration, children develop confidence, observation skills, resilience, and a sense of wonder as they build meaningful connections with the natural world.