Our Programme

At Starfish we recognise the importance of fun and creating a love of learning through play. We provide opportunities for daily problem solving and creative thinking. We promote imaginative play as well as integrating home life experiences and community connections. We provide opportunities for research and investigation and help nurture children's emotional and social development.

Our programme is based on the New Zealand National Early Childhood Curriculum (Te Whariki). Our teachers ensure holistic development and growth through regular observations to set learning goals, resulting in a personal development portfolio for each child recording their achievements and milestones.

Children are encouraged to develop a range of skills through: exploration, contribution, well-being, belonging and communication, in a secure positive environment.

  • 2-3 Year Old Area

    This area can accomodate up to 12 children providing a safe and nurturing environment for our youngest children. It is richly resourced with age appropiate play equipment and activities. The inside area flows nicely to an attractive outdoor area with sandpit and waterplay.

    There are structured mat and music times for group interaction throughout each day. Unit interest focuses are child initiated and the children explore and learn through all areas of the curriculum.

  • 3-5 Year Old Area

    Our pre-school room is spacious and designed specifically for children to learn through play and structured activities while preparing them for school entry. It features a richly resourced large outdoor area where children are able to develop their physical motor skills through active movement.

    Throughout the day children are encouraged to learn through collaboration with adults and peers, guided participation and observation, as well as through individual exploration and reflection.

    The daily structured mat and music times promote group collaboration and learning as well as transition to school readiness.

  • 4 Year Old Programme

    Our four year old programme is based on developing a readiness for school in literacy and numeracy knowledge as well as the promotion of social skills. We aim in this structured group time, to foster children's love of learning while developing their concentration, co-operation and communication skills in preparation for a classroom environment.

    Our ongoing relationship with the community and local schools also supports a positive smooth transition.

  • Meals

    We perceive meal times as opportunities to reinforce positive healthy attitudes towards food. Children enjoy this time when they interact with each other and practice their social skills.

    Children at Starfish bring their morning/afternoon tea and lunch from home in a clearly named lunch box. In addition a named drink bottle of water is also required. Starfish is a 'Nut Free' Centre.

  • Parents and Whānau

    At Starfish, we are committed to a vibrant partnership with you as parents and recognise that you are your child's first teacher. Open communication with you about your child is vital to us. All parents receive regular newsletters informing them of relevant Centre information.

    To help keep you up to date with your child's learning and development our teachers regularly update your child's portfolio. The portfolios are a lovely record of your child's achievements at Starfish Early Childhood Centre.

  • Starfish Staff

    At Starfish Early Childhood Centre we value our unique role in contributing to your child's important early years. We employ qualified and experienced staff that together hold an extensive wealth of knowledge.

    Our qualified teachers hold current first aid certificates and all of our staff are police vetted and reference checked.

    Starfish staff welcome you as parents into the Centre and encourages your involvement. Your child will be supported, guided and respected while at our Centre.