Our main learning space brings children aged 2–5 years together in one warm, encouraging environment. This mixed-age approach creates a close-knit community where children can learn from one another, build friendships and develop a strong sense of belonging.
- A strong start to school: Our Set for School programme supports older tamariki to build the confidence, independence, early literacy and numeracy skills they need for a positive transition to school.
- Learning together: Tuakana-teina relationships give older children opportunities to care for and support younger children, while younger children learn from their older peers. This helps build confidence, kindness and social skills.
- Together with the people they know: Children can learn alongside siblings, cousins and friends, helping maintain important relationships and attachments throughout their time at BestStart Waihopai.
Our mixed-age environment offers the benefits of a small, connected community where children can learn, grow and support one another every day.
