Our Philosophy

At Greenlane Childcare, we have aspirations for all our children to grow up as competent and confident learners and communicators, healthy in mind, body and spirit, who are secure in their sense of belonging and in the knowledge that they make a valuable contribution to society.

Laughter

Our kaiako have a vision for children to experience an environment which is fun and exciting. Kaiako’s commitment to this is through planning our curriculum inspired by the children’s interests and ideas. The learning environment is stimulating and is always changing to keep the children engaged and wanting to explore, and we value the outdoors and the learning opportunities that the natural environment provides us. We love going on trips and local walks to Maungakiekie to extend children’s interests and allow them to grow independence and curiosity about the world around them.

Learning through Kotahitanga

Our kaiako believe in creating an enriching environment where children are encouraged to develop confidence in themselves and their play, and to have perceptions of themselves as explorers who research, enquire and experiment with the world around them. As kaiako we believe in noticing an individual child’s interests and responding to these in meaningful ways. Kaiako are life-long learners who are knowledgeable and passionate about their practice, committed to growth and personal development. Our curriculum is inspired by the principals, strands and goals of Te Whāriki, which guides us in defining what we do and why we do it.

We foster reciprocal tuakana teina relationships through our mixed-age groups, and believe all children learn and teach each other through their play and relationships. Ako is valued in our learning culture within the centre, as we all have something to learn from one another and have a meaningful contribution to make. Kaiako view children through a holistic lens, and support all areas of their social, physical, emotional and spiritual development through our curriculum and planning.

Aroha, Love

Our kaiako strongly believe that aroha for all children is the most fundamental element when teaching young children. We care for children and support their well-being whilst encouraging them to feel a secure sense of belonging in our own special family that is us at Greenlane Childcare. Whanaungatanga is central in teaching our children and therefore we work collaboratively with children, parents and whānau. Kaiako are warm, caring and nurturing, who value empathy, equity and inclusion. We embrace children’s cultures, languages and individualities within the centre and support the importance of children learning about the wider world around them.