At Rutherford Street Kindergarten | Te Puna Kōhungahunga o Piki Mai, we believe that tamariki learn best in an environment where they feel safe, valued, connected and confident in who they are. We provide high-quality early childhood care and education that engages mokopuna, whānau and hapori, and promotes positive learning outcomes for all tamariki.

Whanaungatanga is at the heart of our kindergarten. We value warm, respectful and reciprocal relationships with tamariki, whānau, kaiako and our wider community. Through these relationships, tamariki develop a strong sense of belonging and know that their identity, language, culture, strengths and ways of being are recognised and celebrated.

Our curriculum is guided by Te Whāriki and shaped by the interests, strengths and lived experiences of our tamariki and whānau. We value play as meaningful learning, where tamariki can explore, imagine, problem-solve, take risks, build friendships and grow as confident and capable learners.

We are committed to bicultural practice and honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi in our everyday teaching and learning. Te reo Māori, tikanga Māori and local stories of place are woven through our environment and curriculum, supporting tamariki to develop a sense of identity, connection and tūrangawaewae.

Manaakitanga guides the way we care for one another. We support tamariki to develop social competence, communication skills, emotional wellbeing and positive relationships through gentle guidance, intentional teaching and consistent role modelling.

As kaiako, we are reflective and responsive in our practice. We work collaboratively, continue to grow our professional knowledge, and make thoughtful decisions that support the wellbeing, learning and inclusion of every tamaiti.

As an Enviroschool, we value kaitiakitanga and support tamariki to develop care, respect and responsibility for the natural world. Through everyday experiences, routines and exploration, tamariki build a sense of wonder, connection and responsibility for Papatūānuku.

Through respectful relationships, inclusive practice and a strong connection to our community, we aim to create a place where all tamariki can belong, grow and flourish.

Tamariki: children

Whānau: family and extended family

Hapori: community

Kaiako: teachers

Mokopuna: children, grandchildren or younger generations

Whanaungatanga: relationships, connection and belonging

Manaakitanga: care, kindness, hospitality and respect

Kaitiakitanga: guardianship and care for the natural world

Papatūānuku: Earth mother, the land

Te reo Māori: the Māori language

Tikanga Māori: Māori customs, values and practices

Tūrangawaewae: a place to stand, belong and feel connected