Pigeon Mountain Kindergarten provides a secure, caring and educational space for each child and their family.

Space to learn and grow – Our approach to learning is founded on play, as we believe children learn best through play. Our teachers plan for children’s learning and development by observing, recognizing and responding to their strengths, interests and dispositions. Our tamariki have the privilege of enjoying a vast outdoor play area that is both challenging and stimulating, as well as a spacious and well-equipped indoor play area.

Relationships at the Heart – At our community kindergarten, we prioritize building strong, positive relationships with both our tamariki and their family/whānau. We provide a respectful and responsive environment, and we encourage partnering with whānau and their participation.

Learning in nature – We are based at the bottom of Ōhuiarangi, Pigeon Mountain where we see the maunga as an extension of our environment. Frequent walks up the mountain are part of our curriculum programme. We also partner with the Tūpuna Maunga Authority to plant native shrubs on the mountain.

Building healthy habits – We are working towards our Healthy Heart accreditation through the Heart Foundation. Our tamariki are encouraged to get aboard their wellness journey early, by being involved with season vegetable gardening that we appreciate together in a shared meal.

Dedicated kaiako – Our kaiako/teaching team are qualified, passionate, enthusiastic and caring. We take pride in our approach to the learning programme, which is designed to provide stimulating, diverse, and enriching learning opportunities for children. Our curriculum is inspired by Te Whāriki, the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum, and is designed to foster the holistic development of children. 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.

Te Ao Māori – We acknowledge and value Te Tiriti O Waitangi. Tikanga Māori and Te Reo Māori are used to promote bi-cultural awareness and understanding. Ōhuiarangi, Pigeon Mountain, is our turangawaewae, our place where we feel empowered and connected. We also include and embrace all ethnicities and celebrate cultural diversity.