Freemans Bay Kindergarten is set in park-like surroundings on the edge of Western Park and boasts Green-Gold Enviroschools status; we are very passionate about looking after the planet with many initiatives like recycling, re-using, re-purposing and using natural resources where possible.

Learning through play – We know that children learn best through play, so those vitally important pre-literacy and pre-numeracy skills are woven through the curriculum in a meaningful and fun way. In addition, we have a very impressive library and our tamariki love to have stories read to them often.

Commitment to te reo and Tikanga Māori – Kaiako are committed to daily use of te reo Māori and engage in Tikanga Māori practices that honour te tiriti. We celebrate diversity and love our kindergarten community sharing their cultural celebrations with us.

Immersive Natural Resources – We have a large sandpit and climbing equipment, we have a waterfall so that children can engage with and engineer the flow of water in a very natural way. Pretend play is valued and deep curiosity about plants and nature is nurtured through our gardening and composting programme as well as our two worm farms.

Learning Together – Tamariki engage in group learning, both at morning mat time and spontaneously throughout the day, as we follow emergent interests.

Nurturing Interests – Kaiako will support and scaffold children’s interests, strengths and aspirations as we work alongside tamariki to grow their skills and positive dispositions. Our kaiako are skilled in implementing the Incredible Years Teacher Programme which supports young children with self-regulation and their social, emotional and academic competence.

We welcome you to come visit us and be part of our amazing kindergarten community!