Beyond the Gate

We believe that learning shouldn’t be confined to the area within our fence. We regularly take our older tamariki onto the field that surrounds us to allow them to stretch their legs. We also venture slightly further afield to the local playgrounds. However, the pinnacle of our learning beyond the gate is Ngā Tamariki o Papatūānuku.

 

Ngā Tamariki o Papatūānuku - Children of the Earth

Ngā Tamariki o Papatūānuku provides tamariki with real life experiences; exploring and playing in nature, where the child is at the centre of the environment. Learning in nature allows tamraiki to build resilience, self confidence and independence. They develop problem solving skills and a responsible attitude towards risk while being calmer and happier. They learn to be kaitiaki of the Coastlands community and develop independence in a supportive environment.

 

Takutai

Three mornings a week, eight of our oldest children venture to the beach to spend the morning where they have the time and freedom to learn and explore at their own pace. As well as having a lot of fun, these sessions give the tamariki the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge such as:

  • Beach safety

  • Flora and Fauna (plants and living creatures) that call our beach their home

  • Opportunities to be imaginative and creative with many different elements like sand, wood, water and shells

  • Learning respect for living and natural worlds as we make discoveries

  • Developing different working theories and ideas

  • Comradeship and teamwork as they head out with our friends ready to learn and explore

  • And, most importantly, they have the time and freedom to learn and explore at our own pace, and have fun