Pre-school

At the heart of learning is the need for children to have a sense of self and connection as a capable and confident learner. The principles of the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum (Te Whāriki) our embodied in our philosophy, celebrating each child’s potential. The relationship between the Pre-school and the wider St Andrew’s College community further enriches our curriculum and gives us the opportunity to work in partnership to support your child’s ongoing learning journey. By fostering a strong foundation based on our four priorities for learning (respectful relationships, communication, independence and resilience, and creativity), we empower children to explore, collaborate, and problem-solve.

Our children engage in experiences that promote mindfulness, peace, and joy. Playing alongside each other in a beautiful environment, they work collaboratively, problem-solve, and develop social competence skills. Sustainability and cultural diversity are integral to our philosophy, and we celebrate the bicultural partnership of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Relationships are at the heart of our programme, and we embrace all cultures and beliefs our families encompass.

Connection with the wider St Andrew’s College community is one of our Pre-school’s unique strengths and gives us access to many exciting facilities on the wider St Andrew’s campus, such as the gymnasiums, sports fields, libraries, Ballet and Dance Studios, Science laboratories, Art suites, theatre, and the Centennial Chapel.

Our light-filled Pre-school facilities, garden and outdoor play area provides an environment for the children to engage in inquiry-based learning, imaginative play, and creative pursuits. Inside, the large open plan area is divided into separate rooms for different curriculum areas, such as building and construction, a family area complete with a kitchen and dining room, a snug with tiered seating for reading and quiet activities, and a dedicated Art Studio. Our transition room is available for older children to have their own space or do extension activities. It also provides a sleeping area, with individual beds and bedding for children who require a sleep during the daytime.

Our four priorities for learning are respectful relationships, communication, independence and resilience, and creativity. Our curriculum has been developed in consultation with the Junior Department at the St Andrew’s College Preparatory School to provide our children with a wide range of experiences to prepare for their primary school years. The children are supported on a unique journey of investigation and discovery, as they undertake inquiry-based learning in literacy, numeracy, science, art, cultural studies, physical education and music.

We regularly assess and enhance our environment in response to the needs and interests of the children. Each child is placed in an age-appropriate group with a key teacher who is responsible for the documentation of their learning and development. Other specialist staff and teachers in the St Andrew’s College community are called on as required, in areas including Learning Support, extension, and evaluation.