BestStart Montessori Johnsonville

At BestStart Montessori Johnsonville, we are proud to hold the 2025 Dr Nicola Chisnall Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand Award—an honour that recognises our deep commitment to Montessori education. Our kaiako and whānau have worked together to create our own Continent Boxes, thoughtfully prepared with artefacts, books, and art. These rich, hands-on resources invite tamariki to explore the world through play, fostering global awareness, curiosity, and a love for learning.

BestStart has won the Most Trusted Brand four times and the Quality Services Award for 7 years in a row! We’re so proud to have the trusted care and quality of our service recognised by NZ parents voting for us.

BestStart’s Set for School programme assists with a smooth transition to get children ready for primary school. We partner with families, encouraging pre-literacy and numeracy along with developing children’s independence and self-help skills.

Our centre provides nutritious and tasty morning and afternoon tea for children, while parents need to provide lunch for children. Our centre is proud to hold a Gold Tohu Manawa Ora Healthy Heart Award for supporting healthy eating and physical activity for children and families.

In our Montessori centre, we encourage independence, curiosity, and hands-on exploration in a carefully prepared environment, allowing children to progress at their own pace. We promote holistic development in a supportive and respectful atmosphere, while nurturing self-confidence and practical life skills.