A community-based pre-school in Gonville, Whanganui, that takes children from six weeks to six years in a licensed centre for up to 38 children. The centre has separate buildings for under-twos and over-twos, linked by a long clear solar-shield canopy, so children can play indoors and outdoors all year round.
The centre runs an emergent curriculum, where play is based on each child's interests, and it follows Te Whāriki, New Zealand's early childhood curriculum. It is bicultural, and its philosophy stresses whānau partnership and a sense of belonging. The team says it keeps a high proportion of trained, registered teachers and reviews its evaluation regularly.
The pre-school is open Monday to Friday from 6.45am to 5.30pm. Morning sessions run until 12.30pm and afternoon sessions from 12.30pm until 5.30pm, and a full day crosses that time. Part-time, full-time and casual attendance are offered where places are available. The centre closes only on statutory holidays and for a close-down of about a week over Christmas.
The pre-school is at 98 Heads Road, Gonville, and the phone number is (06) 347 6868. Our pick in Gonville for a family who wants a play-led pre-school with indoor and outdoor space close together.