We at Under 5 are committed to working in partnership with parents to meet the holistic needs of each child. To do this we will:

• Develop a love of learning as well as the appropriate development of independence, social, emotional and communication skills. Children learn through guided participation and observation of others as well as individual exploration.

• Develop a positive self image in each child to give them the confidence to enter new situations such as school without undue stress.

• Provide a safe and secure environment so that children feel a sense of well-being and belonging. Clear guidelines for behaviour will be provided with firm but warm guidance.

• Employ staff members who are professionals as well as caring and enthusiastic individuals, genuinely interested in children’s learning and development.

• Be committed to using the Ministry of Education Early Childhood Curriculum called Te Whaariki. Within its guidelines we will provide a varied and child centred programme.

• Include assessment as an integral part of the programme. Careful observation helps us to understand children as individuals and allow modification of the programmes to support the childrens’ growth, development and needs.

• Provide a stimulating, and richly resourced environment. Play is the child’s natural way of learning. Varied resources for that play will be provided to allow choice and to promote active exploration.

• Put into practice the principle that all children and their parents are unique as well as equal. We will respect age, gender, disability, ethnicity and diversity of background.

• Maintain an open door policy so that parents and visitors feel welcome. We believe that parents should be active contributors to their own child’s learning through providing information on any issues, health, preferences and problems. In addition experiences shared can be used to supplement programme planning.