To build a sense of cultural locatedness within and beyond our centre to ensure we build authentic and respectful relationships with our community of learners.
Programme
Our Vision:
Our Values:
Whanaungatanga – Respectful relationships
Tangata Whenuatanga – Cultural locatedness
Wananga – Open and honest communication
Our Groups:
Group time is a special part of our daily rhythm at Ako, where tamariki come together before lunch to connect, learn, and grow. We split into our age and stage rōpū—Kiwi, Pīwakawaka, Kākāpō, and Kea—each with a focus suited to their developmental journey.
Across all groups, tamariki engage in rich, meaningful experiences such as songs, stories, movement, art, science, and exploration of our natural environment. These times support the growth of communication, social skills, curiosity, and confidence, while nurturing whakawhanaungatanga (relationships) and a strong sense of belonging.
These group times provide a balance of more structured learning experiences alongside free play, allowing tamariki to explore ideas in both guided and child-led ways.
Guided by our Ako values of Whāngai (nurture), Whakatenatena (encourage), and Tupu (grow), group times provide a supportive space where every child is empowered to explore their interests, develop new skills, and thrive alongside their peers.