Explore, Belong, Learn
Our philosophy reflects our core values and defines who we are and what we think matters most for those who walk through our doors.
We believe in fostering an environment where children are empowered and inspired to learn, grow and have fun with their peers. We believe in the importance of play knowing this creates a strong foundation for learning.
Through offering a combination of spontaneous and structured learning experiences, we offer variety through a flexible, yet predictable environment.
We believe it takes a village to raise a child and that we are all part of that together. Through partnerships with whānau, our community and our team, our goal is to offer the best quality learning environment for your child. Our Kaiako are passionate, enthusiastic and dedicated to enriching children’s learning.
Our Kaiako all bring with them a wealth of different experiences, knowledge and skills. We place emphasis on working collaboratively as a team, continually learning off others, recognising and celebrating individual strengths so that we can enhance child-learning outcomes. We are committed to engaging and nurturing children’s learning and believe it is a privilege to be able to work in partnership with our tamariki as they learn, grow and develop into confident members of our society.
Our Philosophies
Natural Environment
We provide a natural environment that offers the opportunity for children to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature. A strong emphasis on the environment being our third teacher.
Whanaungatanga
Fostering a community approach to learning, focused on building responsive, reciprocal relationships to provide a sense of belonging in our environment.
A strong foundation
For lifelong learning. Our environment offers creative experiences where children can extend their learning, problem solve and co-construct their knowledge.
Manaakitanga
Having a respectful and nurturing approach when working with children and families/ whānau. Fostering the empowerment of children as confident and capable individuals and working in partnership with them.
Home away from home
Our centre reflects a homely environment and we strive to provide an atmosphere where children and their whānau feel comfortable and develop a strong sense of belonging.
Connections between home and our centre environment are vastly important to us, in addition to developing meaningful relationships and seeking collaborative aspirations placing child well-being at the forefront of our practice.
Children are viewed as confident and capable learners and Kaiako at The Oaks Early Learning Centre provide a holistic approach to learning that is reflected within our pedagogy and practices.
Inclusive learning community
At the Oaks Early Learning Centre we promote an inclusive learning community where all families and tamariki are valued, respected and encouraged to contribute.
We have a strong focus on our bi-cultural curriculum, our commitment to the Te Tiriti o Waitangi and our multicultural families. Our Kaiako strive to enhance learner identity by being responsive to and working collaboratively, with our individual families/whānau.
