27/11/2025
This letter was sent to Hon Erica Stanford today.
Governing Board
Waikanae Montessori Preschool
3B Seddon Street
Waikanae
26 November 2025
Hon Erica Stanford
Minister of Education
Freepost Parliament
Private Bag 18 888
Parliament Buildings
Wellington 6160
Email: [email protected]
Tēnā koe Minister Stanford,
Re: Affirming Waikanae Montessori Preschool’s Commitment to Giving Effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Waikanae Montessori Preschool wishes to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi within our educational practice and governance. We recognise Te Tiriti as a foundational document that underpins the relationship between tangata whenua and the Crown, and we acknowledge our responsibility as an early childhood education provider to give effect to its principles of partnership, participation, and protection.
Our approach is guided by the Education and Training Act 2020 and the principles of Te Whāriki: He Whāriki Mātauranga mō ngā Mokopuna o Aotearoa, which positions Te Tiriti o Waitangi as central to curriculum design and delivery. In alignment with these frameworks, we have embedded the following practices within our centre:
• Curriculum Integration: Our local curriculum reflects te ao Māori, mātauranga Māori, and local tikanga, ensuring tamariki experience authentic bicultural learning opportunities consistent with Te Whāriki’s aspiration for children to grow up as competent and confident learners in a bicultural society.
• Language and Cultural Revitalisation: We actively promote and incorporate te reo Māori and tikanga Māori in daily practice, supported by kaiako professional development and whānau engagement, as outlined in Te Whāriki’s principle of Whānau Tangata.
• Equity and Inclusion: We strive to achieve equitable outcomes for Māori learners and their whānau, fostering strong reciprocal relationships grounded in respect and cultural responsiveness, reflecting Te Whāriki’s principle of Kotahitanga.
We are aware of recent discussions regarding legislative changes to school board obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Regardless of these changes, Waikanae Montessori Preschool remains steadfast in upholding Te Tiriti as a living document within our governance and teaching practice. We believe that honouring Te Tiriti and Te Whāriki’s bicultural intent is essential for creating an education system where every child feels a sense of belonging and identity.
We invite continued dialogue with the Ministry to ensure that early childhood education services are supported in maintaining these commitments.
Ngā mihi nui,
Shirley Jones
Chairperson
Governing Board
Waikanae Montessori Preschool
