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Designed for newborns through to 3 1/2 years

THE NURSERY
Newborns to 2 years

The Centre provides a very flexible program for infants aimed at catering for the individual children and their families. We encourage an inviting, warm and nurturing environment for all.

The unit is run by very experienced, and qualified teachers who have created wonderful inside and outside environments for the children. Much thought has gone into creating a sense of wonder for the children, with the sensory garden areas, and the many tactile and visual treats inside.

ERO Report 2010; 'Children experience a calm, warm and safe social and emotional climate where teachers are friendly and welcoming'.

In order to best cater for the needs of infants we recognize that daily information sharing is necessary between the teachers and families.

ERO Report 2010; 'In the Under Two Unit, particular focus is teacher's respectful and nuturing approach and the consideration given to accommodating childrens familliar home routines'. 

Teachers make time available each day to talk to families about their children.

THE OLDER CHILDREN'S UNIT
2 to 3 1/2years

The older children's unit celebrates and reflects the capabilities of children aged from 2 - 3 1/2years old.

• We run an environment - based program where children learn through their developing relationships with people, places and things.
• We promote learning alongside play.
• This unit works on a flexible child-centered approach, with teachers supporting children's choices and extending learning opportunities when necessary.

ERO report 2010; 'A thoughtfully planned and well-designed environment supports teachers to meet children's education and care needs.  Children's sense of wellbeing and belonging is protected and enhanced by their experiences at the centre.

ERO report 2010; 'Children have many opportunities to develop their skills as competent learners in an environment that promotes their confident participation.  They enjoy exploring the natural world and engaging in challenging physical activity and imaginative play.'

We have a consistent teaching team, who believe that building relationships between the children and teachers is pivotal to positive outcomes.

• All children at the Centre are treated as unique and individual and given equal opportunity to take part in all aspects of the program.
• The early childhood curriculum, Te Whaariki, is the basis for all aspects of the program, which actively encourages the development of the learning dispositions; courage, curiosity, trust, playfulness, perseverance, confidence and responsibility.

Transition: Teachers are responsive to the children's needs during transition to make it as stress free as possible. Children near the age of 3 1/2 begin to visit the Pagoda, usually in a small group with a familiar teacher.

Teachers always enjoy the chance to share information and anecdotes with parents about their child's day at the Centre, and welcome comments and feedback that will help us to understand and support your child's learning.

	The teaching team caring for The Nursery within The Castle
	The teaching team caring for The Older Children's Unit within The Castle