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Why Choose Us
Kidsfirst Lincoln’s exceptional Beyond Green/Gold Enviroschool status demonstrates environmental leadership in action, Our kindy setting creates unique opportunities for tamariki to connect with the different types of people from all around our community.
Our tamariki thrive in an environment where innovative sustainability practices come alive every day. Through hands-on experiences that weave together kaitiakitanga and te ao Māori perspectives, children can develop into confident kaitiaki. Under the guidance of fully qualified, registered kaiako, tamariki become culturally aware learners, and care deeply for their environment.
Learning naturally extends beyond the kindergarten’s hedged sanctuary through regular exploration of Lincoln’s evolving landscape. Adventures in the community, including visits to local schools, help our tamariki build strong connections and develop a sense of belonging in our community.
In the calm yet bustling indoor spaces, tamariki engage in meaningful learning through creativity and play. Each day brings opportunities for tamariki to pursue their interests and contribute their ideas, creating experiences that build confidence and capability.
Nau mai, tauti mai – make a time to visit us and remember, you’re always welcome at Kidsfirst.
Why Kidsfirst Kindergartens
With over 100 years of proud legacy, Kidsfirst Kindergartens is a not-for-profit organisation that supports and leads kindergartens across Canterbury, the West Coast and Central Otago. Generations of South Island tamariki and whānau have passed through our gates, and we have strong ties to local communities.
Our kindergartens are down to earth places with warm, nurturing teachers with a rich range of resources and environments to explore.
One of the hallmarks of our kindys is that you’re always welcome here – whānau are encouraged to visit and stay, and take part in kindergarten life. We love it when families share their skills, and culture too – our kindergartens are some of the most diverse learning environments around, and children learn best when teachers and whānau work together.
Te Whāriki, the New Zealand Curriculum, guides our teaching and learning programmes, while the kindergarten philosophy underpins all we do. Tamariki learn through play in their own time, through their own interests, guided by trained teachers who are registered with the Teaching Council of New Zealand. You’ll often find our kindergartens located on, or near, local primary schools. Preparation for school and a smooth transition are a key part of the work for our kaiako.
Our kaiako are overseen by Professional Leaders with a focus on quality and ensuring the highest educational standards. Formerly known as the Canterbury Westland Free Kindergarten Association, Kidsfirst – and its kindergartens – consistently receive strong reports from the Education Review Office. You can read more about their assessment of our governing organisation here.
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A proudly New Zealand owned and operated not-for-profit kindergarten association with over 110 years of kiwi heritage
