Kindergarten at Kidsfirst Sumner isn’t just about the learning – tamariki strengthen what it means to be kind, respectful, and connected to their community.

“The teaching team has created an environment where all seven Uara values guide every interaction and learning experience,” says Kidsfirst Professional Leader Keryn Barlow. “You can feel the manaaki the minute you walk through the door. By embedding the Uara into everything they do, the kindergarten not only educates but also encourages important life principles that tamariki carry with them beyond their early years.”

At Kidsfirst Sumner, tamariki practise valuing themselves, their friends, and the world around them through whakaute. It’s there when they listen carefully to each other, share toys willingly, and help take care of their kindergarten space. Kaiako show children what respect looks like every day, making sure every tamaiti feels important and heard.

The warm, welcoming feeling at Sumner reflects manaakitanga in action. The teaching team works hard to make sure every tamaiti and their whānau feels they belong. Regular community events bring families together, strengthening the bonds that make this kindergarten feel like an extended whānau.

Kotahitanga shines through as children discover the joy of working as a team through group activities, shared play, and solving problems together. Whether they’re building with blocks, creating art projects, or figuring out playground challenges, they learn that life is better when we support each other.

Every day is filled with opportunities for tamariki to explore, learn, and express who they are by bringing whakamanamana to life. Kaiako encourage tamariki to make their own choices, try new things, and develop their unique personalities in light and happy ways. In this safe, supportive space, tamariki build confidence, learn to believe in themselves, and have fun along the way.

Through kaitiakitanga, Sumner tamariki learn about the cycles of nature in the kindy’s Big Backyard, they learn about recycling, and take nature walks to discover more about the local environment around them and their role in caring for it. These experiences help them understand they have an important part to play in looking after our planet – a responsibility they carry with pride.

When Canterbury fires affected nearby communities, Sumner children showed their understanding of whanaungatanga. Worried about the impact on people, animals, and the environment, they created thank-you cards for the Sumner Volunteer Fire Brigade, showing their whakawhetai – gratitude – to those brave and hard-working local firefighters.

Strong friendships and family connections are central to life at Kidsfirst Sumner, reflecting the whanaungatanga that is there every day. Kaiako stay in regular contact with whānau, and tamariki are encouraged to build meaningful friendships with one another. This creates a close-knit community where everyone feels connected and supported.

Whakapono underpins everything at the kindergarten where trust and authenticity are paramount. The teaching team forms genuine relationships with tamariki and whānau, creating a secure environment where tamariki feel safe to explore, learn, and be themselves.

“Kidsfirst Sumner’s commitment to these values creates a nurturing and enriching environment where tamariki can thrive and take away so much more than traditional learning,” says Keryn Barlow. “Tamariki get to practise important life principles that they will carry with them long beyond their early years.”