We follows the Principles, Strands and Goals of Te Whaariki ( National Early Childhood Curriculum).

Linking of the curriculum to our community and the living world is our methodology for learning therefor providing meaningful learning experiences for our children.

Our learning experiences allow children to create meaning from the natural world around them. This encourages children to use their own sense-making processes within their social groups to support their learning. Supporting life-long learning for all participants, children, teachers and families is a priority of the centre. Furthermore, a holistic approach to health, well-being and learning is promoted for our children.

Little Pinecone’s Highlights

Forest Kindergarten

Little Pinecone Preschool models it’s pedagogy on the Forest Kindergartens of Europe. It is also known as Waldkindergarten (in German), outdoor nursery, nature kindergarten, or nature preschool. Children learn in context through stimulating, hands-on experiences. Learning is most effective when multiple senses are involved. We take our children to Cornwall Park 2-3 times a week.

Curriculum Cooking Programme

Our teachers and children prepare lunch together 2 times a week. Our children gain a host of valuable skills and experiences from the Curriculum Cooking Programme. They learn practical abilities such as measuring ingredients and following recipes, which help them develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. This activity also introduces them to the basics of nutrition, encouraging healthy eating habits.

Transition To School Programme

Transitions are an important part of life. As our children make transitions to school, as teachers we ensure that their transitions are smooth, and supported well. We empower and encourage our children to be independent learners. We take time to learn about our children and parents’ aspirations. Our transition to school programme allows our children to be stimulated and challenged, this encourages them to problem solve and work independently. Through this programme children are encouraged to express their creativity through arts, music and dramatic play. The use of numbers, object sorting, puzzles, counting games etc helps them with literacy and numeracy learning. Songs, games, rhymes, plenty of writing experiences are offered throughout the day.