The Curriculum

At Cambridge Early Learning Centre the early childhood curriculum, Te Whāriki, provides the basis for our core and emergent curricula and our planned events.

Endorsement of children's own individual interests and ideas is paramount and the teachers provide opportunities for group work that focuses on fostering development of confident perseverance and responsibility; and allowing children to practice communication and self-help skills. Our learning environments acknowledge the importance of: developing relationships, active exploration, and links to home and the wider community. The majority of children's projects, investigations and activities are generated by the child’s own explorations and interests; teachers support the choices and extend them when appropriate. 

The teachers believe that every child, with appropriate support, is capable of dictating both the pace and focus of their own learning. Inclusion is paramount and every child is treated as a unique individual and given an equal opportunity to take part. Our child management approach also encourages children to be responsible for their own behaviour. This approach is firm, consistent and non-aversive and acknowledges both the child’s and the adult’s rights to be treated with respect and to maintain their dignity, and encourages the development of good self esteem.


 

Every teacher at CELC supports and encourages the development of the following dispositions: courage, curiosity, trust, playfulness, perseverance, confidence and responsibility. Teachers believe that these give the child the tools they need to develop and become lifelong learners. Evaluations of each child’s progress always acknowledges individual strengths and interests while encouraging further development.

The "Koru Club" at the Pagoda is designed to give the oldest children opportunities to participate in small groups and to promote the practice and extending of skills associated with school readiness. There are strong relationships with the local schools and our children enjoy regular familiarisation visits to new entrant classrooms. 

We value the individuality and uniqueness of each child and celebrate the experiences and knowledge they contribute to our learning environment. We actively develop relationships with home and the wider community.