Find Our Kindergarten
39 Bridge Street
South New Brighton
Christchurch
New Zealand
Why Choose Us
At Kidsfirst South Brighton, fully qualified and registered kaiako guide tamariki as they discover their role as kaitiaki of our unique coastal environment. Through daily exploration and play, tamariki develop a deep connection to their natural world, whether they’re investigating our wormery in our Big Backyard or exploring the meeting of estuary and sea.
Inside our welcoming spaces, tamariki find resources that spark their curiosity, while outside, nature becomes their greatest teacher. We value every child as both teacher and learner in the spirit of ako, creating opportunities for them to work together, share ideas and develop confidence in their own abilities.
Our special location next to the Community Centre enriches learning experiences as we meet and learn from others in our community. Regular adventures in our community – from visits to Te Waka Aroha to exploring our local area – help tamariki build strong connections to their neighbourhood and develop their sense of belonging.
Strong relationships with our local primary school to ensure a smooth transition when your child is ready for their next adventure.
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
