A Progressive, Purposeful Programme for Today’s Learners
The wider programme at our boutique preschool is grounded in a progressive approach to early childhood education, one that recognises the world our children are growing into, and the kinds of skills, dispositions, and support they need to truly thrive.
We believe that learning in the early years should be rich, meaningful, and responsive.
Our programme is thoughtfully designed to nurture creativity, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and a strong sense of identity and belonging. Through open-ended play, project work, real-life experiences, and intentional teaching moments, we create space for tamariki to explore their ideas, solve problems, and make sense of the world in their own unique way.
We understand that learners today need more than just the basics, they need resilience, adaptability, curiosity, and confidence. Our teachers are skilled in creating an environment that is both nurturing and stimulating, where each child feels empowered to take the lead in their learning while being gently guided and supported.
Whether it’s gardening, storytelling, collaborative art, or moments of quiet reflection, every part of our day is designed with care, intention, and a deep understanding of what it means to be a learner in today’s world.
Our Enrichment Programme, Inspired Learning for Curious Minds
For tamariki aged 3.5 years and over, our Enrichment Programme offers a structured two-hour session each day.
Led by a specially trained teacher, the programme provides a calm, purposeful environment where children explore, think critically and grow in independence.
Beginning at lunchtime, the session starts with an emphasis on grace and courtesy, setting a respectful tone. Using carefully selected hands-on materials, the programme follows each child’s individual learning journey, supporting foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, practical life and sensorial exploration.
This focused time offers older learners the opportunity to engage in deeper learning while being supported in a warm, nurturing setting. The Enrichment Programme bridges the transition to school while remaining grounded in the joy of discovery.
Our Philosophy
Ko te ahurei o te tamaiti arahia o tatou mahi
Let the uniqueness of the child guide our work.
At Kohimarama Private Preschool, we believe childhood should never be rushed.
We believe children deserve the time to wonder, to revisit ideas, to make mistakes, and to discover the satisfaction that comes from mastering something through their own persistence. We trust in every child’s natural curiosity, unique strengths, and unlimited potential. Learning is not measured by how many activities a child completes, but by the depth of their thinking, the confidence they develop, and the joy they experience along the way.
Our role as teachers is to notice, recognise, and respond. We believe extraordinary learning comes from ordinary moments, when skilled teachers recognise their significance and intentionally build upon them. We carefully observe each child, recognising what they are ready for and thoughtfully extending their learning through meaningful experiences. We do not simply fill children’s days—we make every experience count.
We believe children become capable by being trusted. Through meaningful choices, gentle guidance, and clear expectations, children develop independence, responsibility, resilience, and respect for themselves, others, and the world around them.
Play is the heart of our curriculum because it is where children think deeply, solve problems, build friendships, communicate ideas, and make sense of their world. We protect long periods of uninterrupted play, knowing that real learning cannot be rushed.
Our environment reflects our values. It is calm, beautiful, and purposeful, encouraging curiosity without overwhelming children. Every resource has a reason for being there, and every space invites children to belong, explore, and succeed.
Most importantly, we believe relationships change everything. When children feel safe, valued, and deeply known, they develop the confidence to take risks, embrace challenges, and become lifelong learners. In partnership with families and guided by the aspirations of Te Whāriki, we create a community where children, whānau, and teachers learn alongside one another.
Together, we strive to give every child not just the best possible start at school, but the strongest possible foundation for life.
Daily programme
| Programme | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8.00am | Haere Mai, welcome to children arriving Choosing time Inside | Outside flow Good Quality Learning Opportunities throughout the curriculum, focus on current topic |
| 9.15am | Ring the bell for Morning Greeting inside on the Mat Welcome, topic introduction, stories, songs, music Wash hands for Morning Tea Children are invited to join Morning Tea on the Deck |
| 9.45am | Choosing Time Inside | Outside Play Opportunities |
| 11.45am | Bell for washing hands Lunchtime |
| 12.15pm-2.30pm | Choosing Time Inside | Outside Play Opportunities |
| 12.00-2.00pm | Language Extension Programme for our older children |
| *On Thursday afternoons Rhonda-Robic’s attend between 12.30pm and 1.30pm to lead a Music and Movement session | |
| 1.30pm | Rest time for children needing a nap |
| 2.30pm | Ring the bell for Reset Pepeha with Show and Tell Afternoon Sunblock application Wash hands |
| 3.00pm | Afternoon Tea |
| 3.15pm | Free choosing time quiet activity and wind down for home |
| 4.00pm | Children help teachers pack up and clean respective spaces and prepare for home |
| 4:30pm | Farewell, take care Hei konā rā |
Visit us today in Kohimarama and see how our personalised approach can nurture your child's growth in our warm, family-centered community
Convenient for Eastern Auckland Families
We’re located in Kohimarama, welcoming families from Mission Bay, St Heliers, Orakei, Parnell, Remuera and Glendowie.