Who is BestStart?
Welcome to BestStart, where love, care and trust are the magic at the heart of learning.
We started back in 1996, when Chloe and Wayne Wright became involved in Early Childhood Education.Over the last 25+ years we’ve grown to become New Zealand’s largest provider of Early Learning Centres, with over 260 centres and 4,500 passionate staff!
We’re dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of children, aiming to provide a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for children, preparing them for a lifelong journey of learning.
Our BestStart Values
Quality Learning | Te Kounga o te Ako
Our skilled teachers and stimulating learning environments prepare children for school and life. We encourage each child to explore the world around them, fostering a love of learning through meaningful relationships and natural curiosity. Exploration, friendship and fun are part of this journey, guiding children as they grow in an ever-changing world.
Family/Whānau | Rangatiratanga
Family/Whānau are the first teachers to tamariki. Every family is different, and what is important to each individual family, is important to us. We respect and support your family and culture, ensuring you feel welcomed and valued in your child’s learning journey with us.
Trust | Pono
Everything we do is based on a foundation of Trust/Pono, creating an environment in which our tamariki can learn and thrive. We prioritise genuine connections with an honest and consistent approach to caring for your child.
Support | Manaakitanga
Each centre offers individualised plans throughout your child’s learning journey.
Safety | Aroha
We prioritise a secure environment for children and families. You can trust our policies, procedures and commitment to your child’s emotional, physical and spiritual development.
Communication | Mana Tangata
We work in partnership with our whānau/families, collaborating to support the learning and development goals for tamariki. Effective and consistent communication that values the perspectives of others, enables our tamariki to enjoy positive relationships, empowering them to make good choices, and supporting them to reach their potential
Wellbeing / Mana Atua
We understand that our tamariki can only reach their potential if they are healthy, happy and feel emotionally secure. From our fun games and learning opportunities to the healthy food we offer, we ensure tamariki feel safe and relaxed, supporting their physical, social, spiritual, emotional, and learning development.
Belonging | Mana Whenua
Fostering a sense of belonging is crucial for the wellbeing of our children and families. We celebrate individuality and diversity and a spirit of empathy and collaboration. Whānau/families’ views are respected, with regular feedback sought, to ensure they feel they belong to the BestStart family.