Omanu preschool - Rapunga whakaaro - Our philosophy

---

At Omanu Preschool, our philosophy is deeply rooted in the values of our whanau, mokopuna, and kaiako, within the vibrant tapestry of our learning community.

Our curriculum is guided by the principles of Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s early childhood national curriculum, and the locally contextualized Te Tai Whanake ki Tauranga Moana curriculum. These frameworks shape our approach to nurturing the growth and development of our mokopuna, honouring their individual identities and celebrating the unique cultural heritage they bring to our shared learning journey.

Mauao, a revered symbol of strength and connection, is central to our educational philosophy. This iconic mountain embodies the values of mana, kaitiaki, maia, and manakitanga, which we strive to instill in every child who joins our preschool.

· Mana reflects the inherent dignity and strength of each child. We honour the whakapapa, culture, and individuality of every learner, fostering deep connections with their whanau, whenua (land), and the wider world.

· Kaitiaki, the concept of guardianship, emphasizes our shared responsibility to care for people and the environment. We empower our mokopuna to respect and nurture the world around them, guiding them to become mindful stewards of their community and the earth.

· Maia symbolizes bravery and resilience. We provide a safe yet challenging environment where children are encouraged to take risks, embrace challenges, and develop the confidence to make thoughtful decisions.

· Manakitanga represents kindness, generosity, and hospitality. We cultivate an atmosphere of aroha (love), empathy, and mutual respect, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration within our preschool community.

To further enhance our philosophy, we prioritize a primary care teacher system. This approach ensures every child feels safe, supported, and able to build trusting relationships, creating a strong foundation for their sense of belonging. Additionally, our curriculum incorporates loose parts play, which nurtures children’s imagination and encourages the development of working theories through open-ended exploration and creativity.

By embracing these values and practices, we reflect the spirit of Mauao, guiding our mokopuna on a journey of discovery, growth, and empowerment. Our commitment is to provide a nurturing and inspiring environment where each child is celebrated and supported as they become confident, compassionate, and capable individuals.