Philosophy

At AppleSeed we are committed to providing excellent care and education in a homely environment. We are a family – a home away from home where children, parents and Whānau feel a strong sense of belonging. Through reciprocal and constant communication with our wider learning community, we believe that we can achieve the best learning outcomes for children.

Our core focus is for children to grow up as competent, confident learners and communicators; healthy in mind, body and spirit; secure in their sense of belonging and in the knowledge, they make a valued contribution to society.

We believe that children are unique individuals who should be treated with respect and dignity irrespective of culture, ethnicity, gender, ability or socio-economic status. Our holistic approach focuses on enhancing children’s mana (self-esteem, self-worth and Whakahī/Pride) above all else.

Our children are seen as ‘leaderful learners’ and rangatiratanga of their own journey. They are explorers, reflective thinkers and capable decision makers. Kaiako empower tamariki by focusing on developing positive dispositions such resilience, respect and humour in their journey to become lifelong learners

Kaiako create a stimulating physical environment which acts as a third teacher, where children can discover their own learning through a range of safe play choices, challenges and risk taking. The environment provides a nurturing space for children to express their imagination and creativity through ‘one hundred languages’.

We believe in empowering children’s social and emotional competencies through establishing a positive climate that demonstrates Whanaungatanga (partnerships and sense of family and kinship through shared learning experiences), Manaakitanga (showing respect, generosity and care for others) and Ngᾱkau nui (big heartedness).

Our nations bi-cultural heritage, which is founded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, is reflected in our practice through the principles of protection, participation and partnership with Tangata Whenua. In our daily programme, we honour Mᾱori culture by following Tikanga practices, embedding Te Reo Mᾱori in our routine and using Mᾱori Kaupapa as our guiding values.

The customs, traditions and values of all Tangata Tiriti are valued as important contributors to our unique centre. We embrace all cultures into our environment and daily routine to ensure each child feels a sense of belonging and contribution in this space.

As a mixed age environment encompassing a wide range of capabilities, we value tuakana-teina relationships and the concept of ‘ako’ where children, teachers, management and whānau learn from each other, and develop skills in leadership and social empathy.

Our kaiako emphasise collaborative inquiry-based practice. They are reflective practitioners and passionate about intentional teaching in supporting children’s learning while updating their practice through ongoing professional development.