Find Our Kindergarten
Why Choose Us
At Kidsfirst Shirley, warm and nurturing kaiako support children in an environment where tamariki take active responsibility for their learning journey, making choices that develop their confidence and problem-solving abilities.
Our iconic entrance flags guide whānau to a welcoming space, where our magnificent old tree creates a natural focal point for outdoor discovery. In our Big Backyard, generations of tamariki have developed the confidence to take appropriate risks while building respect for our natural environment.
Inside, we create zones where children can work independently or collaborate with peers. Our resources encourage decision-making and support diverse learning styles, helping tamariki develop the skills to navigate their own experiences.
Whanaungatanga is at the heart of all we do, and we celebrate the multiculturalism and diversity of our community. Building trusting, caring and respectful relationships over time is key, and we are fortunate to have an active community of whānau and caregivers who share their knowledge, strengths, languages and cultures regularly.
Through regular community exploration, tamariki discover their place in the wider Shirley area. These excursions and our strong relationships with the local schools help build the confidence needed for smooth transitions when they move on to local schools.
Our supportive environment encourages children to embrace challenges while respecting and learning from others, creating a community where everyone is both teacher and learner.
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.
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A proudly New Zealand owned and operated not-for-profit kindergarten association with over 110 years of kiwi heritage
