we bake each day. It’s in the weights and measures and temperatures of our cooking projects. By adding mathematical language to our conversations, we assist with future mathematical fluency and proficiency, and normalise mathematical concepts. Science is woven into our beautiful curriculum. In our ngahere, where science abounds, how could it not? There is biology within our kararehe, our flora and fauna, chemistry within our campfire cooking, and the science of our constructions as we build and create in our ngahere. Our mahi (work) is guided by our seasons, and we experience each series of weather systems, watching it change our environment and our learning. We watch liquids turn to solids in winter, and solids turn to liquids as we enjoy the sensory delights of mud. Our tamariki are valued as kaitiaki of Papatūānuku, given daily opportunities to feel, connect and play with all that she gives them. Simply by being immersed in it, they begin to form the foundations of understanding that with these experiences comes great respect and responsibility as well as opportunity. We know that by connecting with the Earth Mother this creates opportunities to instinctually connect back to their whakapapa, adopting the Māori belief that every part and entity of the ngahere has its own life power and spiritual energy. After a busy day of exploring our ngahere, our tamariki return to our centre base where they can explore again until their day comes to an end. We really do believe they get the best of both worlds with our beautiful centre to start and end their day in, accompanied by our wonderful daily ngahere excursion. Tamariki, whānau and our kaiako are the heart of everything we do. Our kaiako meetings are more like gatherings, they have a focus on kaiako wellbeing – being good kaitiaki of ourselves so we can better manaaki others. Our kaiako each take a turn to set the agenda for the gathering by sharing what ‘fills their cup’, As a collective we share their favourite kai (food) and activity(ies) that bring them joy, creating ample opportunities to connect with each other at the same time. One kaiako is celebrated at each gathering as we ‘shine the light on them’ and remind them of everything we appreciate and value about them and celebrate what they bring to our team and space. We offer a unique programme for a unique experience that celebrates and embraces each individual tamaiti, whānau, kaiako, and kaimahi, with the intent to ensure they all have a place with us, their mana (spiritual power) is empowered, and our tamariki leave us able to continue on their learning journey with a kete (basket) of knowledge and skills for successful outcomes. March 2024 { 17 }
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