Our Philosophy

Waverley St Kindergarten Philosophy
At Waverley Street Kindergarten we provide a play based, curriculum in which tamariki  are empowered to: think;
explore; question; contribute; be curious; grow in confidence and resilience; be kind; and develop a
view of themselves as capable learners and contributors to the world around them.

Our philosophy is evident in action within key areas:  
Relationships - ngā hononga
Open, respectful and trusting relationships are formed between kaiako, tamariki, and whānau that are authentic and celebrate the uniqueness of tamariki. We embrace the knowledge that whānau share about their child and this guides the decision making as we work together to provide learning that is meaningful for them.
Empowerment - whakamana
Kaiako provide an equitable learning environment in which all children have a voice to share their ideas;  feel empowered to lead the direction of their learning; grow their capabilities; their curiosity; their resilience and view of themselves as successful learners (UNCROC).
Holistic - kotahitanga
Our learning environment  meets the ever growing capabilities of our tamariki ensuring that their learning happens in a connected and holistic way that embraces their physical, emotional, social, cultural and spiritual well being.
Bicultural - kākanorua
We embrace the bicultural heritage of Aotearoa - New Zealand; we acknowledge Māori as tangata whenua and work collaboratively with whānau to ensure tamariki flourish as learners in an environment rich in bicultural understanding and practices which in turn ensures their success as Māori learners. 
Communication - mana reo
Ngā kaiako notice the rich learning that is happening for tamariki and we share this with whānau through conversations. It is also visible in our assessment, planning and evaluation documentation for both individuals and groups of tamariki.
Diversity - kanorau
We celebrate the diversity of learner identities that make up our kindergarten community. We work collaboratively with whānau to provide a culturally responsive and inclusive learning environment which grows our learners view of themselves as valued contributors in play. 
Respect - kiritau
Kaiako sensitively coach tamariki to develop their social abilities as they work with and alongside others.  We help them identify their emotional needs and ways in which they can manage the powerful feelings they experience as they play. We empower children to become independent learners as they navigate their way through the complexities of their social worlds.
Environment - taiao
We are guided by the enviroschools kaupapa (programme) which empowers children to take care of themselves, each other and our environment to create a peaceful and sustainable world together.
Kindness - manaaki (tia)
Our learning environment fosters tamariki to develop an understanding of themselves as empathic, kind contributors and role models as they play with and alongside others.  Kaiako respectfully coach children to grow their - social capabilities; - their empathy towards others and; - support them to learn ways in which they can contribute to the emotional wellbeing of others as they play.