Term 1, 2015

Welcome back from the holiday break. The summer sun has not disappointed us these holidays. And we have also been able to enjoy great outdoor weather now that kindergarten has started again. Monica, our new Head Teacher has had many years of experiences, and we warmly welcome her to our team. This term, the programme in the Morning session is focusing on the strand and goals of Te Whariki known as ‘Contribution’. The concept of ‘Contribution’ from a curriculum viewpoint is considered to be when; children take another’s point of view, or empathise with others, ask for help, see themselves as a help for others, and when they discuss or explain their ideas to adults or to other children. We have started to document learning outcome of the strand ‘Contribution’ on the back planning wall, by the kitchen.

The Afternoon session curriculum focus is on the strand and goals of ‘Belonging’. As children settle into kindergarten, they develop a sense of belonging. This in turn enhances other positive learning outcomes. The concept of ‘Belonging’ from a curriculum viewpoint is considered to be when; there are connecting links with the family and the wider world and they are affirmed and extended, when children know that they have a place here, when children feel comfortable with the routines, customs, and regular events, and when children know the limits and boundaries of acceptable behaviour. We have also started to document the learning outcomes of this strand on the planning wall by the puzzle table.