OUR PHILOSOPHY
Philosophy of Mountainside Educare
We are nestled in between Whatakaupapa (Mt Iron) and Mata-au (Clutha River)
Our philosophy is at the very root of what we believe, value and treasure.
We believe that your ākonga (children) forge their own pathway to reach the peak of their maunga, their mountain, with the support and guidance of our kaiako (teachers). We value the unique kete of knowledge that each and every one of us bring to Mountainside. This is a place where aroha, tuakana-teina, whanaungatanga, and whakamana are treasured most.
Aroha
Our centre is a place of aroha, of love. We value and treasure manaakitanga through showing compassion and respect for ourselves, others and our living world.
As kaitiaki, guardians of the land, we practice a sustainable culture to care for Papatūānuku (Earth Mother), Ranginui (Sky Father) and their ākonga.
Tuakana-teina
In our unique Centre, we celebrate the tuakana-teina relationships between our younger and older ākonga. Whānau, kaiako and ākonga are forever on a journey of learning. We value and encourage an environment of ako where each and every one of us is both a teacher and a learner.
Whanaungatanga
People are our wealth, we are committed to strong and respectful partnerships with Mountainside whānau and our surrounding communities. We believe that ākonga grow in an environment where they are nurtured and valued for being their individual selves. We treasure meaningful rituals that bring us together as a whānau.
Whakamana
Our kaiako and environment empower our ākonga to climb their own maunga and to be the independent, capable citizens that they are. Kaiako empower ākonga to take risks, to explore, to allow wonderment and curiosity to lead their own learning. We respect that ākonga learn in their own time – ā tōna wā, through uninterrupted and freedom of play.
COME AND SEE MOUNTAINSIDE
Discover our philosophy in practice
Come and spend time in our environment, where relationships, play and the natural world shape each day.
Family owned
Visible, hands-on, local owners who are part of daily centre life.
Low ratios
More time, attention and responsive relationships for each tamaiti.
Kai included
Nut-free meals are prepared on site and included in fees.
Nature every day
Outdoor play, curiosity and unhurried exploration are prioritised.