Papakura North Kindergarten 2

At Papakura North Kindergarten our core value is respect. Children develop and build on the skills that enable them to respect themselves, others, all living and all non-living things. We are an Enviroschools Kindergarten where natural resources, the environment, and sustainable practices are an important part of the programme. Our families, children and teachers learn sustainable practices from each other.

The environment allows for individual, small and large group teaching and learning where our four qualified and experienced teachers value play as a tool to support and extend the learning and interests of tamariki. Incorporated into children’s play are numeracy, literacy and scientific concepts. Tamariki also develop positive learning attitudes such as perseverance, creative thinking, problem-solving, and enthusiasm. It is these skills that help children feel confident in a more formal school setting and are the basis for lifelong learning.

Our kindergarten community is culturally diverse. Families are encouraged to share their own customs, traditions, and celebrations that are important to their whānau. Families are also welcome any time to spend time with the children and to share their knowledge.

The Meaning of our Logo

Our logo depicts a scene that the children see each day:

The harakeke (flax) was chosen as it is very significant to families, community and the children. The children are represented in the centre of the flax and have the previous generations surrounding them to nurture, protect and educate them. In Maori custom the centre flax is never cut: only the outside leaves to have protection for the younger shoots in the centre. The flowering flax represents our children flourishing and growing and preparing for venturing off into the outside world.

The pukeko represents the young child being guided and encouraged to take the steps to become competent and confident learners with the support of adults who give them the chance to try things for themselves but who are also there to lend support if necessary.

The koru in the background represents the importance of family to the children’s lives and future.