We are a small, family-owned and operated early learning centre licensed for 39 children between the ages of 0 and 6 years. We are based in the heart of Browns Bay and conveniently situated adjacent to Browns Bay Primary School.
Ours is a warm, nurturing, home-away-from-home environment where our tamariki (children) are supported and guided by professional, qualified Kaiako (teachers) and support staff.
Licensing
We are a licensed Early Childcare Centre with Ministry of Education, license number: 20024. We are licensed for 39 tamariki with a maximum of 9 infants and toddlers.
Operating
Monday to Friday 7:30am to 5:00pm
Open all year except for the Christmas and New Year weeks
We are closed on Statutory Holidays
Our Curriculum
We follow the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum, Te Whāriki, and are further inspired by the Reggio Emilio key principles:
Children are capable and competent learners.
· We encourage tamariki to develop the tools required to investigate, make sense of objects and ideas about which they are curious, and to become promoters of culture, values, and rights.
· We believe in giving tamriki ownership of their learning and their experiences.
Teachers and parents, through their interactions with the children and each other, have a responsibility to help the child learn.
· Our Kaiako spend quality time talking and listening to the tamariki
· Parent participation is a key part of the tamariki learning process
· Reciprocal communication between the tamariki, whanau, and Kaiako is vital to help create the spirit of respect, cooperation, collaboration, and co-construction of knowledge.
The environment acts as a third teacher for children.
· Our environment encourages collaboration, communication, and exploration.
· Our spaces are filled with natural light, order, and resources.
· Each space has an identity and a purpose and is cared for and respected by the tamariki, and adults.
· Our spaces are alive, flexible, and open to change to support out tamariki in exploring their interests and learning.
About Us
Our Philosophy
At Browns Bay Preschool (BBPS), we are guided by a profound commitment to creating a nurturing and culturally responsive environment where tamariki (children) are not only cherished but are also empowered to learn, grow, and flourish through play within a supportive community of kaiako (teachers), mātua (parents) and whānau (families).
Our philosophy at BBPS is deeply rooted in the belief that the foundation of all our endeavours lies in fostering reciprocal, respectful, and secure relationships. We recognise that these relationships are pivotal in nurturing a child's sense of belonging, encouraging exploration, and facilitating engagement in play and learning. By prioritising positive relationships, we empower tamariki to develop social competence, regulate behaviour, and build essential life skills.
Furthermore, we are committed to cultural responsiveness and excellence in teaching practice. We recognise the diverse cultural identities of our tamariki and strive to create an inclusive environment that celebrates and respects their heritage, language, and traditions.
Inspired by the principles of Te Whāriki and the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we embrace the concept of the environment as the "third teacher." By providing an inviting, well-resourced learning space, we aim to create opportunities for tamariki to interact with others in a responsible and healthy manner. Through their own critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, tamariki learn to solve problems and navigate the world around them with confidence and independence. Central to our approach is instilling kaitiakitanga, nurturing in tamariki a respect for nature and encouraging them to cherish and safeguard their environment from an early age.
By upholding our core values of respectful, reciprocal relationships, partnership, positive learning environments, and safety we are committed to realising our vision of fostering a community where tamariki are respected, loved, and inspired to cultivate a lifelong love of learning.
