Find Our Kindergarten
366 Selwyn Street
Addington
Christchurch
New Zealand
Why Choose Us
At Kidsfirst Selwyn Street, tamariki develop through their own interests at their own pace with support from fully qualified and registered kaiako.
Our renovated character building blends historic charm with modern learning spaces, creating bright and warm environments that welcome whānau into kindergarten life. These thoughtfully designed areas support both individual discovery and group learning while honouring our building’s heritage.
We’ve been at the heart of the local community for generations, with close ties to nearby schools, involvement in local events and regular visits with our ‘grand-friends’ at the local rest home
Outside, our Big Backyard features established trees and gardens that spark curiosity and exploration.
Everyday kindergarten life responds to children’s interests and whānau aspirations, with tamariki actively contributing to planning decisions that shape their learning journey.
Nau mai, haere 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.
What Families Say
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A proudly New Zealand owned and operated not-for-profit kindergarten association with over 110 years of kiwi heritage
