BestStart Opihi

In the Nursery, we have a strong focus on respectful care of our Pepi aged 3 months to two years. We aim to create an environment that is a home away from home, where tamariki feel safe and cared for by those around them. We want whanau to feel welcomed and know that this is a safe space for them to leave their children, understanding that their well-being is the focus of our day. Through responsive and reciprocal relationships we are able to create a learning space that meets the needs of each individual child and supports tamariki to care for and respect each other and themselves.

In our preschool room, with our children aged between 2-5 years, we have a strong focus on the Set for School programme and giving our tamariki the opportunity to take risks and be leaders of their own learning. We empower children to gain independence and confidence, to view themselves as competent and capable. Our Preschool planning and assessment uses strong learning priorities and outcomes to enhance and support children's learning journeys whilst at the centre. We're lucky to have strong community connections where tamariki get to go out and explore our local wider world.