At Kidsfirst Nuffield, there’s a powerful belief in ako – that learning never stops, and everyone has something to teach and something to learn.

The spirit of the Uara flows through day-to-day kindergarten life at Nuffield, where tamariki, whānau and kaiako all learn and grow together. The way the Uara values are brought to life at this kindy was recognised as Ngā Whetū o Kidsfirst Uara at this year’s Annual General Meeting.

Whether tamariki arrive with complex health needs or different ways of learning, every child gets to enjoy the full kindergarten experience. When a tamaiti needs extra support, they see the whole kindy community stepping up to help. Sometimes it means adapting activities so everyone can join in or finding new ways to communicate. Tamariki learn that differences are welcomed and celebrated, while whānau know that all children are included in the fun, learning and friendship-building that makes kindergarten special.

Through Nuffield’s involvement with Ka Au Kahuraki – a Ministry of Education initiative that supports deeper bicultural practices – tamariki gain a deeper understanding of both te ao Māori and their own cultural heritage. This isn’t about learning a few te reo words, but about children genuinely understanding what it means to live and learn in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Kindergartens are intimately connected to the communities they serve. Where whānau need some extra help or support, this teaching team often works to help them access it. Kaiako can also be strong advocates when navigating health services, education systems and accessing specialist support, helping whānau navigate what can be a stressful time.

Tamariki see their growth and development celebrated in all its forms with kaiako supporting every child as an individual to learn at their own pace, through their own interests.

A positive, solution-focused approach means tamariki learn that challenges are just puzzles waiting to be solved. They watch as the adults around them work together to find creative ways to include everyone, and they practise this same problem-solving spirit in their own play.

Through their commitment to ongoing learning, supporting whānau and staying connected to their community, the Nuffield team uses the power of the Uara to make the kindergarten experience special for all who walk through their kindergarten gate.