Our Curriculum
Embracing the Te Whāriki Framework
At Our Kids Early Learning Centres, our curriculum is guided by Te Whāriki, New Zealand's Ministry of Education early childhood curriculum. This holistic framework supports children's early learning and development within a sociocultural context, emphasising strong partnerships between kaiako (teachers), parents, and whānau (families).
"To grow up as competent and confident learners and communicators, healthy in mind, body, and spirit, secure in their sense of belonging and in the knowledge that they make a valued contribution to society."
— Te Whāriki Vision
Our centres are committed to nurturing this vision by fostering environments where children can thrive and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Our Child-Centered Learning Approach
Supporting Interests, Dispositions, and Schemas
Our curriculum encompasses everything that impacts children's development, learning, and well-being at Our Kids Early Learning Centres. Through open-ended play and exploration, we encourage children to pursue their interests and develop essential life skills. Our teachers observe each child's play, responding to their unique needs to support their growth.
Children develop deep understanding when they can choose learning paths that interest them, concentrating and exploring for extended periods—sometimes over days, weeks, or even months. They learn persistence and patience by returning to their chosen pursuits day after day.
Incorporating the
RIE Philosophy
We embrace the RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) philosophy, which emphasises respectful and authentic interactions with infants and toddlers. Viewing children as competent individuals, we provide them with the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace. Our teachers act as attentive observers, allowing children to develop autonomy and self-confidence.
Environment as the Third Teacher
We believe the environment acts as a third teacher—alongside educators and the children themselves. Our learning spaces are enriched with love, offering a calm and nurturing atmosphere. We provide resources that support different children's interests and schemas, encouraging exploration and discovery.
Our carefully designed environments teach children responsibility in looking after their surroundings, helping them develop a sense of belonging as they explore and enjoy their space every day.
Indoor Environments
Our interior spaces are thoughtfully crafted with natural elements and authentic materials. By creating calm and comfortable settings, we encourage children to think critically, solve problems, and be creative. The environment reflects the children's learning experiences and fosters a sense of home and community.
Outdoor Environments
Our outdoor areas foster children's innate connection with nature. We provide natural spaces where tamariki can interact with the living world, promoting physical activity and environmental education. By engaging with nature, children learn to care for the environment and understand their role in sustaining it for future generations.
Smooth Transition to School
Preparing Little Minds for Life
In our early childhood education environment, children gather the skills, knowledge, and dispositions they need to cope with life's diverse challenges—including the important milestone of starting primary school.
Through a range of play-based learning experiences, we develop foundations for literacy, numeracy, decision-making, perseverance, and creativity. We cultivate self-help and self-care skills, along with social competence, to ensure a smooth transition to school.
Self-Directed Learning Paths
Children at Our Kids set their own goals and choose learning paths that interest them. In a stimulating, responsive environment, they make decisions and construct their understanding of the world. Learning alongside supportive teachers, they widen and deepen their grasp of the world around them.
Parental Involvement
and Engagement
We value and help create strong bonds between children and their whānau, enabling us to work together to support and extend each child's learning. Parental presence and involvement in centre life are welcomed, and our teachers are always available to answer questions and discuss any concerns.
We encourage you to share your family's background, knowledge, skills, goals, and interests, becoming actively involved in the decision-making process around your child’s education and care. By engaging in your child's learning journey, you help create a supportive community that enhances their experience.
Storypark – Connecting Home and Centre
To strengthen the connection between Our Kids and your home, we use Storypark, a secure online learning portfolio that keeps you engaged in your child's development.
We invite parents to regularly check their child's portfolio and discuss their learning with them and their teachers. We also welcome your input in the form of photos, highlights, thoughts, comments, and stories from home and the community.
Key Benefits of Storypark
Updates
Stay connected with instant notifications about your child's activities.
Private
Access a safe platform available only to invited family members.
Share insights to support your child's development.
Include extended family in your child's learning journey.
Discover the Benefits of Mixed-Age Learning
Our Mixed-Age Learning environment fosters a sense of community and collaboration among children. By interacting with peers of different ages, children develop social skills, empathy, and leadership abilities, enhancing their overall learning experience.
Join Our Learning Community
Our dedicated team of qualified educators is passionate about fostering each child's potential. We invite you to become a part of our community.
Contact us to schedule a visit or enrol now to give your child the best start.
