Welcome to Montessori at Otari Preschool & Playgroup
Our vision is to nourish the human spirit to create a better world.
Ka whāngaia te wairua o te tangata kia hangaia he ao painga atu
We do this by supporting the holistic development of each child who attends our Playgroup (ages 0 – 3) and / or Preschool (ages 3 – 6).
We offer high-quality, authentic Montessori Early Childhood education, with well trained, experienced and friendly staff. The Preschool follows the principles and practices of the Montessori philosophy as well as those outlined in Te Whāriki, the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum.
Areas of Practice
How we will achieve our vision
Supporting the holistic development of each child (physical, social, emotional, spiritual and intellectual);
Encouraging each child to be a life- long learner with the confidence to positively contribute in their community;
Providing high quality, authentic Montessori Early Childhood education, with well trained and experienced staff;
Applying MANZ guiding principles, closely woven to TeWhariki , honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and incorporating the Virtues Project;
Promoting the biculturalism of Aotearoa and embracing the cultural diversity of our unique community;
Facilitating the involvement of our whanau, staff, Council, Otari Primary school and the wider community to foster positive, respectful relationships
Values
Our values guide our Preschool. They support our decisions, lead our conduct and reflect the special nature of Montessori at Otari Preschool.
Akoranga: We promote independence, curiosity and creativity, in a Montessori prepared environment that allows individual freedom balanced with responsibility.
Kaitiakitanga: We support, nurture, protect and respect each other, our community and the environment, now and for the future.
Manaakitanga: We show kindness, respect and aroha in everything we do, to enhance the mana of tamariki, kaiako and whānau, where everybody feels welcome and valued.
Whanaungatanga: We collectively foster positive and meaningful relationships.
Kotahitanga: We provide a safe and inclusive environment that is equitable for all and celebrates diversity, to build unity within our community.
Montessori Education
The Montessori philosophy advocates the holistic development of the child. It is based on a belief in the child's innate potential. Montessori education from the earliest years will prepare your child for life by encouraging:
Independence
Concentration
Coordination
Self esteem
Inner motivation
Respect for each other
Respect for their environment
A love of learning
Upcoming events
NEXT OPEN DAY
Saturday 15th June
10am to 12pm
Term Dates for 2024
Term 1
Starts: Wednesday 7 February
Ends: Friday 12 April
(Preschool closed for Easter – Friday 29th March and Monday 1st April)
Term 3
Starts: Monday 22 July
Ends: Friday 27 September
Term 2
Starts: Monday 29 April
Ends: Friday 5 July
(Preschool closed for King’s Birthday - 3rd June and Matariki - Friday 28th June)
Term 4
Starts: Monday 14 October
Ends: Friday 20 December
(Preschool closed for Labour Day - Monday 28th October)
“Free the child's potential, and you will transform them into the world.”
– Maria Montessori