About
Why choose us?
There are a host of reasons why families choose Little Wonders Timaru. Here are just a few of them:
- Modern, purpose built centre
- Great location close to local parks and Bluestone School
- Extended hours great for busy working parents (7.30am to 6pm)
- Delicious nutritious meals provided by our onsite cook
- Staff who are truly passionate about high quality early childhood education
- Four separate rooms cater for each age and stage
- Regular excursions
- Great relationship with local primary school
- We participate in the ECE Leaders group and the Ka hui ako
- Anita Croft from Growing Kiwi Gardeners supports children's learning associated with our natural world every six weeks
Our philosophy
At Little Wonders Timaru, we understand the importance of fostering trusting, reciprocal, and responsive whanaungatanga (relationships). Our vision is for all learners in our care to grow and thrive as lifelong learners, feeling secure in their sense of belonging.
We provide an inclusive environment where the cultural identity of tamariki is affirmed and recognised as Tangata Whenua or Tangata o te Tiriti.
Whānau contributions are encouraged and welcomed, and aspirations for tamariki embrace the connection between home and the centre
Te Whariki – Te Ara Whānui - is our overarching curriculum, which promotes a holistic, well-being approach to Early Education.
Each aspect of our Learning Programme and our Planning and Assessment is underpinned by the principles and strands of Te Whariki.
The fundamental belief of Te Whariki is that tamariki are:
“Competent and confident learners and communicators, healthy in mind, body and spirit, secure in their sense of belonging and in the knowledge that they make a valued contribution to society”.
Learning Priorities
Manaakitanga
Hospitality kindness, generosity, Support – the process of showing respect, generosity and care for others
Children are encouraged in the disposition of caring, sharing and kindness; showing respect for learners and the environment.
Ako
(Ākona) to learn, study, instruct, teach, advise
Our Kaiako plan for learning to provide experiences which are intentional, engaging and fun.
Mahi Tahi / Kotahitanga
Working together, collaboration, cooperation, teamwork / unity, togetherness, solidarity, collective action
Our Kaiako collaborate with whānau and as a team to ensure the well being, needs, aspirations and learning are collaborative between home and centre.
Tamariki are encouraged to work with their hoa aropā (peers) to overcome challenges, problem-solve and to strengthen whanaungatanga (relationships)
Tūhāhā
Uniqueness, independence and individuality
The routines here encourage tamariki to extend their independence and develop self-help skills.
About Evolve
Evolve Education Group is a leader in early childhood education, with over 90 centres across New Zealand offering a range of top quality learning options for all of our families.
Our highly regarded brands – which include Active Explorers, Lollipops, Pascals, Learning Adventures, Little Wonders, Little Lights and Little Earth Montessori – nurture children to love learning and become the best they can be. Rich and diverse educational opportunities are delivered by passionate, experienced educators in purpose designed centres equipped with the latest learning resources.
Evolve Education Group is helping shape the future, preparing little minds for great things in today’s ever changing world.
