Gems Educational Childcare

At Gems Educational Childcare, nature isn’t just something we visit – it’s an important part of our everyday learning.

Our dedicated Nature Programme provides children with regular opportunities to explore the outdoors, connect with the natural environment, and develop confidence, resilience, creativity, and problem-solving skills through hands-on experiences.

Whether it’s discovering insects, building with natural materials, climbing, exploring local reserves, or simply enjoying the changing seasons, our children learn through meaningful experiences that foster a lifelong appreciation for the world around them.

Nature play is one of the many things that sets Gems apart, providing children with opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive beyond the classroom walls.

If you’re looking for a childcare centre that embraces adventure, curiosity, and child-led learning, we’d love to show you what makes Gems special.

📅 Book a tour today and see our Nature Programme in action.

📞 Contact us or visit our website to arrange your visit.

Navigating dirt paths on cardboard in the forest? This isn’t just play - it’s brain-building, confidence-boosting, resilience-crafting magic!

Nature Play and Risky Play benefits include creativity and problem-solving skills, reduces stress and improves focus, 30% better risk assessment skills, higher self-esteem and confidence, improved physical coordination and strength and stronger emotional regulation.

The forest floor becomes their classroom, the dirt paths their challenge course, and each wobble a lesson in balance (both physical and emotional).

When we let kids engage in age-appropriate risky play in natural environments, we’re not just letting them have fun - we’re giving them the tools they need to navigate life’s bigger challenges.

What was your favorite risky play spot as a kid? Share below! 👇🏽

Soaking up the last of the warm weather before winter really sets in!

Who is excited for the first proper snowfall? Let us know what winter activities your tamariki is most looking forward to 👇🏽

Winter Promo Alert! 🔔

Refer a friend to Gems today!

Contact us today for this special offer!

Gems Educational Childcare Gems Educational Childcare is a Queenstown (NZ) based early childcare organisation.

With three centres

Mushroom hunting or pinecone fishing, our tamariki know how to have a good time!

Join us as a parent helper on our Nature Play outings and get to be a part of the fun!

Miniature Archaeologists at Work!

These little explorers aren’t just digging in the dirt—they’re conducting hands-on archaeological investigations! Every scoop, bucket of sand, and discovery is building scientific thinking skills in a practical way.

What they’re learning:

Observation and documentation skills
Patience and attention to detail
Scientific method in action (hypothesize → excavate → record)
Respect for history and natural artefacts

Nature’s treasure chest never disappoints—from fossilized leaves to mysterious rocks, every find tells a story. The best part? They’re building memories while developing critical thinking that will serve them in the classroom and beyond.

Who knows what tomorrow’s excavation will uncover?

What Nature Play has Taught me as an International Kaiako
Written by: Mignon Martinez

(Read the full article on our website)

Here are five things I have learned as an international kaiako through my experiences in nature play with the tamariki.

Physical wellbeing:
One very distinct thing I noticed with the tamariki at Gems is how physically active they are! I remember being so amazed by how much energy they have when doing long walks, climbing hills and rocks, and how brave they are when taking calculated risks outdoors! Whether it is climbing trees, balancing on logs, or jumping from heights. Nature play allows children to strengthen not only their bodies, but also their confidence and resilience.

Loving relationships:
There is something special about being outdoors that naturally brings people together. I have seen tamariki help one another climb, wait patiently for their friends, and celebrate each other’s achievements. Nature play creates opportunities for meaningful conversations, teamwork, and kindness. It builds a strong sense of belonging and community where everyone looks after one another.

Hiring a Lead Cook! Join us today.

Lead Cook – Gems Educational Childcare

Location: Queenstown, NZ Hours: Permanent, 30 Hours a week 8:45 - 2:45 Mon - Fri

At Gems Educational Childcare, we believe mealtimes are just as important as play and learning. Guided by the philosophies of Emmi Pikler and Reggio Emilia, our centres place strong emphasis on nature, community, and nurturing environments. We’re looking for a passionate Lead Cook to join our team and create nutritious, delicious meals that fuel our tamariki each day.

About the Role
As our Cook, you will play an essential role in the daily life of the centre, preparing healthy lunches, morning and afternoon tea that cater to a variety of ages and dietary needs. You’ll manage the kitchen with pride—keeping it clean, safe, and well-stocked—while bringing care to every dish.

Key Responsibilities
• Prepare nutritious, age-appropriate meals and snacks for children.
• Plan weekly menus that reflect seasonal produce and support children’s learning.
• Cater for dietary requirements with clearly labelled alternatives.
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety and hygiene, in line with the Food Act and Gems’ policies.
• Manage weekly shopping and work within set budgets.
• Keep accurate records (menu plans, fridge temperatures, cleaning schedules).
• Build positive relationships with staff, families, and children—whanau is at the heart of what we do.

About You
We’re looking for someone who:
• Has experience cooking for groups, ideally children.
• Holds (or is willing to obtain) a Food Hygiene & Safety Certificate.
• Has a current First Aid Certificate (or is willing to complete one).
• Can manage time effectively to ensure meals are ready on schedule.
• Is creative, organised, and enjoys working as part of a team.
• Shares our philosophy of care, respect, and fun.

What We Offer
• A warm, supportive team environment.
• The chance to contribute to a centre that values quality, community, and nature-based learning.
• Ongoing professional development and training.
• The joy of making a real difference in the lives of children and families.
• Relocation assistance to join us in breathtaking Queenstown.*

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to [email protected] or call us on ‭021 625 224‬ for more information.

*Relocation conditions apply.

Action shots from Nature Play!