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Taiao | Environment
Busy Bees Wellington Street consists of two main buildings, a Nursery (22 Wellington Street) catering for our youngest tamariki as well as an adventurous Preschool (24 Wellington Street) for children aged 2-6 years. Each space has their own separate outdoor area providing endless opportunities to explore the natural environment. We believe ngā tamariki – our children learn best through a play-based approach in which we foster opportunities for each child to:
Nursery 22 (up to 2 years)
Our Nursery environment is based on building loving and trusting relationships between infants and teachers, who structure the day according to individual needs. Teachers work closely with families to understand infant cues and develop a routine that supports children’s natural rhythms. Teachers utilise sensory play, outdoor exploration, music and movement to create a fun, interactive atmosphere whilst maintaining a focus on the love and care that infants need to thrive.
Preschool 24 (2-6 years)
Our preschool provides a rich learning environment focused on the tuākana (older children) of our centre ensuring they have the opportunity to develop confidence, independence and self-management all of which align with Te Whāriki (Early Childhood Curriculum) and the pathways to kura (school). Children are encouraged to care for others, the environment and their own belongings and are supported to understand their growing sense of responsibility for themselves and the world around them. While reading and writing materials are available to explore, the curriculum is emergent and discovery-based, with teachers observing and engaging with children to develop projects based on their interests.
Our centre philosophy is aimed towards supporting children to develop and learn the necessary skills for ensuring a smooth transition to school. Kaiako collaborate with parents and whānau to make the pathway to school a positive and exciting step in their child’s learning journey.
Health and wellbeing are essential aspects in children’s lives. By placing intentional focus on each of these areas, we are providing tamariki with every opportunity to gain the skills and habits to take with them into a healthy future.
By focusing on the 4 key pillars of Hauora (Tana Tihana: physical, Taha Hinengāro: mental and emotional, Tana Whānau: family and social and Taha Wairua: spiritual wellbeing) we weave key aspects into the everyday curriculum with our children.
As part of this ongoing commitment to the holistic wellbeing of tamariki, we have researched and developed programmes focused specifically on the key areas of Physical Activity (Move) and Nutrition (Nourish).
Nutritious Morning and Afternoon Tea
Nutritious morning tea and afternoon tea are provided daily, with menus thoughtfully crafted to support healthy development and foster good eating habits from an early age.
Tamariki bring their pouaka kai (lunch boxes) every day. We encourage families to make healthy food choices and ensure their child’s pouaka kai meets centre guidelines as well as Ministry of Health criteria for Early Learning Services.
Tākaro | Play
We are guided by New Zealand’s bi-cultural curriculum Te Whāriki and acknowledge that children learn through play as well as planned experiences. Children will have opportunities to interact with and explore their environment, the people within it and be guided by teachers that recognise that play, problem-solving and exploration are important and valued ways of learning. Tamariki have the freedom to explore their own creativity and engage in experiences that foster this.
Hapori whānui | Community
At Busy Bees Wellington Street, we have an important part to play in our local community and a very special opportunity to positively impact the lives of our young tamariki. We celebrate whakawhanaungatanga (relationships) by connecting with our community through multicultural celebrations and creating a strong sense of belonging.
We are fortunate the centre is a short walk from the botanical gardens, various parks and Te Wiremu, our local aged care facility. We have built a great relationship with Gisborne Girls High School who often visit us to share their talents and knowledge.