The Rainbow is licensed for 48 children across the centre:
Nursery (6 months to 2 1/2) – We can have up to 12 infants and toddlers in the nursery, and we work on a ratio of 1 teacher to every 3 children. We provide opportunities for unhurried, responsive care and interactions with our tamariki; they benefit from familiar adults who know them and their families well. The Nursery and Preschool are side by side, so there’s lots of lovely interactions between our younger and older children. Transitions in the nursery are guided by the children, and loving, respectful and responsive relationships are fostered. Our experienced teachers are experts in working with our youngest tamariki, and provide a developmentally appropriate programme for this age group, with opportunities for exploration, communication and the development of skills.
Preschool (2 - school) – Most days there are about between 35-38 children in the preschool, and we operate a ratio of 1 teacher to 7 children. We have a large open plan inside space, and our expansive and natural outdoor environment provides amazing opportunities for our children to explore, discover, learn and have fun. We also offer an extension programme for our older children called Discovery Time; the focus being on pre-school skills such as working in a group, contributing ideas, taking responsibility for self and others and listening to and respecting others. Literacy, numeracy, Te Reo, theme work and group times are incorporated into all we do throughout the day. We also work with our families and local schools to provide individualised transitions to primary school. Our team of registered teachers provide a fun-filled learning programme for all, with opportunities for busy times and quiet cuddles.
Educa Journals
While your child attends The Rainbow we gather stories and photos of their learning and development and share them with our whānau via Educa - our online portfolio programme. We also print out hard copies for your children to enjoy at the centre. We seek your goals and aspirations for your child, and weave them into our individual and group planning. You are welcome to comment on stories and add your own.
What ERO have confirmed in February 2023
The service’s Christian philosophy and values are strongly evident in practice. Teachers know children and their whānau well. They foster children’s sense of belonging through intentional teaching and being attuned to them as individuals.
Infant and toddlers experience a calm, slower paced environment. Teachers are highly responsive to their verbal and non-verbal cues. The spacious natural outdoor environments support exploration and encourage children of all ages to lead their own learning.
The team have undertaken significant work to design and implement a local curriculum. Deepening the curriculum by exploring the local cultural narratives, histories, and greater integration of te ao Māori is an ongoing focus.
The service has developed an effective working partnership with local primary schools. This helps to support successful transition for children and their whānau. Children with additional learning needs are well supported. Teachers remove barriers to ensure that children have access to full participation at the service.
Leaders and teachers gather relevant information on children’s learning and development aligned with the strands and goals of Te Whāriki, the early childhood curriculum. Te reo Māori is regularly used in assessment documentation.
Leaders and teachers are collaborative, and improvement focused. They engage in regular professional learning and development aligned to the service’s priorities. Internal evaluation is used to inquire into aspects of practice and to understand what changes need to be made.
Governance and management prioritise the learning and wellbeing of children and their whānau when making decisions and allocating resources.
Parent/Caregiver & Family/Whānau Support
We value relationships, so discussions with teachers about any goals & aspirations, concerns or anything else are always welcome. Opportunities to stay and play alongside your children exist, and on-going support for the whole family is available.
Parent-training opportunities will be advertised in our newsletter or on the noticeboard. Regular family events are held throughout the year.