Find Our Kindergarten
Why Choose Us
In our supportive and safe environment at Trengrove, children embark on their own learning adventures as they make choices, take thoughtful risks and develop independence. Tamariki discover the joy of problem-solving while exploring the rich diversity of cultures that make up our community.
Our light-filled and calm spaces create an inspiring environment where each child’s mana, wairua and mauri flourishes. Here, tamariki develop a sense of wonder about the world around them, learning to care for their environment through daily experiences in their role as kaitiaki.
In our beautiful Big Backyard, children connect with nature as they challenge themselves and grow their physical capabilities. They discover the magic of changing seasons, investigate the lives of insects and birds and develop confidence through active exploration across our grass, bark areas and gardens.
Regular adventures in our local community help children make sense of their place in the world, while our strong relationships with local schools support tamariki in taking the next exciting steps in 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.
Latest News
Jumping into gymnastics
Kidsfirst Trengrove had a great day out Christchurch School of Gymnastics recently. With some extra help from whānau, tamariki and kaiako travelled on the bus to put the equipment through its paces – a fantastic opportunity to develop physical skills, and have some fun along the way. Thanks to whānau, and the Christchurch School of Gymnastics Incorporated for making it all possible 😊🤸
A big week with EIGHT birthdays
A big rā whānau ki a koe (happy birthday) to eight kindergartens across our Kidsfirst network. Portsmouth Street, Redwood, Trengrove, Karoro, Hawthornden, Hei Hei, Halswell and Avonhead are all celebrating this week! It’s the perfect occasion to take a look back on some historic photos of the kindy’s over the years…
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A proudly New Zealand owned and operated not-for-profit kindergarten association with over 110 years of kiwi heritage
