The Rainbow is licensed for 48 children across the centre:
Nursery (6 months to 2 1/2) – We can have up to 12 infants and toddlers in the nursery, and we work on a ratio of 1 teacher to every 3 children. We provide opportunities for unhurried, responsive care and interactions with our tamariki; they benefit from familiar adults who know them and their families well. The Nursery and Preschool are side by side, so there’s lots of lovely interactions between our younger and older children. Transitions in the nursery are guided by the children, and loving, respectful and responsive relationships are fostered. Our experienced teachers are experts in working with our youngest tamariki, and provide a developmentally appropriate programme for this age group, with opportunities for exploration, communication and the development of skills.
Preschool (2 - school) – Most days there are about between 35-38 children in the preschool, and we operate a ratio of 1 teacher to 7 children. We have a large open plan inside space, and our expansive and natural outdoor environment provides amazing opportunities for our children to explore, discover, learn and have fun. We also offer an extension programme for our older children called Discovery Time; the focus being on pre-school skills such as working in a group, contributing ideas, taking responsibility for self and others and listening to and respecting others. Literacy, numeracy, Te Reo, theme work and group times are incorporated into all we do throughout the day. We also work with our families and local schools to provide individualised transitions to primary school. Our team of registered teachers provide a fun-filled learning programme for all, with opportunities for busy times and quiet cuddles.
Educa Journals
While your child attends The Rainbow we gather stories and photos of their learning and development and share them with our whānau via Educa - our online portfolio programme. We also print out hard copies for your children to enjoy at the centre. We seek your goals and aspirations for your child, and weave them into our individual and group planning. You are welcome to comment on stories and add your own.
What ERO have confirmed in November 2019
Children actively lead their own learning, empowering them to grow in competence and confidence physically, emotionally, cognitively and socially. Teachers respond to individual learning needs through effective curriculum planning and assessment. Te ao Māori and Christian concepts are clearly aligned with outcomes from Te Whāriki to help determine learning. Māori children are well supported in their learning.
Assessment records children's strengths, interests and learning dispositions, and demonstrates progress in a range of contexts. Parents' and whānau aspirations for their children are known and valued. Teachers proactively learn about, and respond to, children's cultural values.
Teachers engage in positive, responsive relationships with children. Their conversations with children, which also incorporate some te reo Māori, meaningfully promote curiosity, social engagement and learning. Teachers provide authentic learning experiences that offer opportunities to learn within and about the local community. Children's sense of belonging is nurtured, with close whānau involvement, through individualised transitions into and within the service, and when moving on to school.
Infants experience warm, caring interactions with their key teachers. Their routines are calm and unhurried. The initiative of the child is respected, and their learning environment provides stimulation and challenge.
The centre's extensive learning environment supports curriculum implementation and makes use of many natural resources that invite exploration, wondering and creativity. Children experience the care of animals and sustainable practices that foster responsibility and gentleness. They are encouraged to take responsibility for their own and other's wellbeing and their environment.
Trustees, leaders and teachers demonstrate a strong, shared understanding of, and commitment to, the centre's Christian philosophy. They provide an inclusive education for children with diverse needs through their collaborative practices and continual learning. The Trust resources the centre well as part of its mission of service and equity in its community. Leaders and teachers provide emotional and practical support and advocacy for children and whānau. Children are valued, affirmed and celebrated for who they are and what they bring to their learning.
Centre leaders and teachers are active participants and contributors to the wider education community. This has led to improvements in building cultural responsiveness and positive transitions to school. Professional learning is enhanced by teacher inquiry practices and sharing new knowledge within the team.
The Rainbow is Well Placed to promote positive learning outcomes for children.
Our key next steps are for leaders and teachers to continue to focus on:
Engaging with parents and whānau throughout the process of undertaking planned inquiries and evaluations for improvement.
Effectively evaluating service practices, including changes to practice, and key developments to determine the impact these have had on improving outcomes for children.
Parent/Caregiver & Family/Whānau Support
We value relationships, so discussions with teachers about any goals & aspirations, concerns or anything else are always welcome. Opportunities to stay and play alongside your children exist, and on-going support for the whole family is available.
Parent-training opportunities will be advertised in our newsletter or on the noticeboard. Regular family events are held throughout the year.