Raumati Beach Kindergarten offers a whānau model, play based curriculum that supports the learning and development of tamariki from 2 - 5 years of age. The kindergarten has a living kaupapa/philosophy that is underpinned by the following:
• The articles and principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Partnership, Participation, Protection, and spirituality).
• The four Te Ao Māori principles of Ako, Man
aakitanga, Whakamana and Whanaungatanga.
• The principles of Te Whāriki (New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum).
Whānau Tangata – Family and Community
Whakamana – Empowerment
Ngā Hononga – Relationships
Kotahitanga – Holistic Development
• The values, aspirations, and dispositions important to whānau. We respect and enhance the mana of every child in an environment of kind and caring relationships.
• With each other/ngā Hononga
• With our community/Whanaungatanga
• With our environment/Kaitiakitanga
• And with our place/tangata whenua
Mana: We see mana as the power and potential the child brings with them (He Pou Tātaki MOE, 2013). At Raumati Beach Kindergarten we value the relationships/ngā hononga we have with tamariki, whānau, between kindergarten, home, local community, schools, college, and the environment. We have weekly excursions to the local Beach and around the local community (Hikoi iti) to support tamariki in developing a connection with the local community. We have regular intentional interactions/events that support a localized (Te Tiriti Based) curriculum, including Kapa Haka sessions with local Kapiti College Students. The kindergarten has a strong focus on social competence and learning - this is supported by the Te Ao Māori concept of Manaakitanga. We aim to be a collaborative and caring ‘Community of learners’ which is holistic, inclusive, respectful, positive, and fun.
