Philosophy and Curriculum

Philosophy and Curriculum 

Our program is based on the principles of respect, responsibility, and community for children; through exploration and discovery in a supportive and enriching environment based on the interests of the children through a self‐guided curriculum. Core to our philosophy is the provision of an environment that is rich in children's learning opportunities. Not only are we proud of our challenging, yet natural physical environment; but also the interactional environment (social interactions within the environment), and the temporal environment (routines/time) we strive to provide. 

Our working philosophy with tamariki is guided by the National Early Childhood Curriculum, Te Whāriki; within which lies a philosophy embedded in the Māori principle of Ᾱta. Ᾱta dictates that we strive to deliver every aspect of our program with sensitive, respectful and deliberate interactions.  

Kaiako at Atawhai Kids strive to deliver a program that responds to children’s interests and needs by modelling the principles we aspire to, so that children may learn foundational life skills within a caring and responsive environment.  

Being a mixed-age centre means that tamariki of all ages play and learn together, embracing the Māori concept of tuakana-teina (where older tamariki mentor younger ones). Although children are not separated by age, we do provide spaces that allow for different physical abilities and provide a wide range of age-appropriate play resources for children. This means that separate quiet and busy-activity spaces and equipment are provided to cater for all children, both inside and outside.