Barnardos Early Learning Centre Oamaru is an early learning centre at 25 Trent Street in Oamaru, open from 8.30am to 5pm with part-day or full-day options. The centre is part of the Barnardos early learning network. Its outdoor area has a large elm tree for shade, native plants and a vegetable garden that children help to grow in. The open-plan indoor space has play-based activities and resources, and children can learn at their own pace. Teachers follow Te Whāriki, and the centre offers a balanced menu and encourages healthy eating. The centre offers 20 ECE hours for children aged three to six, with access to Barnardos fee exemptions on terms that apply. Families stay connected through Storypark, a secure online journal of photos, video and observations, and each child builds a Tāku Pukapuka, a scrapbook-style portfolio that is given to the family when the child leaves. Local excursions are part of the programme. Our pick in Oamaru for a family who want a learning record they can keep.