Welcome to
Hillcrest Childcare
Ko te ahurei o te tamaiti aroha o tātou mahi
Let the uniqueness of the child guide our work
Our Approach
Whānau Tuakana-Teina
Being a mixed aged centre, the tuakana–teina relationship, an integral part of traditional Māori society, provides a model for Ako. An older or more expert tuakana helps and guides a younger or less expert teina. In a learning environment, the tuakana–teina roles may be reversed at any time.
Tangata
The wellbeing of each tamaiti is interdependent with the wellbeing of their kaiako, parents and whānau. We value whānau aspirations for their tamaiti and respect our diverse cultures.
We go out on weekly walks around the community, learning about papatuanuku, kura, library and shops in our local area.
Ngā Hononga
We provide an environment that is respectful, positive, and warm and where children feel accepted. We build responsive and reciprocal relationships with children, parents, whanau and community.
We encourage relationships amongst children, teaching them to accept and love everyone. We teach children about the past, present and future of Waikato.
Whakamana
Our curriculum empowers tamariki to recognise and enhance their mana and support the mana of others- this links to our Hillcrest treaty of caring for ourselves and others.
Tamariki are agents of their own learning. Kaiako plan and set up the environment based on tamariki interests. Tamariki are encouraged and supported to participate and contribute to wide range of rich experiences. All tamariki are respected and valued, their wellbeing is promoted and they are protected from harm.
Kotahitanga
The model Te Whare Tapa Wha plays a huge part in our individual planning and assessment. We believe that a child will learn when their holistic wellbeing- (hinengaro) cognitive, tinana (physical), whatumanawa (emotional), wairua (spiritual) and whanau (social and cultural)- is balanced.
Our kaiako have a good knowledge and understanding of how children learn and develop!
Kaitiakitanga
At Hillcrest Childcare our Vision is to create a culture of Sustainability, through encouraging an authentic understanding of Kaitiakitanga with the responsibilities of being Kaitiaki for our environment and respect for Papatūānuku.
