Kidsfirst Kindergartens Shirley

Welcome to Kidsfirst Kindergartens Shirley, a hidden gem tucked away in Ajax Street, Christchurch. Look for our flags to find us down a long drive. Our kindergarten is a bright and welcoming space where children aged 2 to 5 years engage in fantastic learning experiences every day.

At Kidsfirst Kindergarten Shirley, we believe in providing place-based education that connects our tamariki (children) to our local heritage, landscape, cultures, and experiences. We are proud to reflect the multicultural and diverse community that we are at the heart of.

Inside our kindergarten, you'll find a warm and naturally lit environment that fosters a calm, open, expansive, and inspiring learning atmosphere. Various areas are set up for children to explore and engage in play experiences with and alongside each other. We offer a wide range of resources and equipment, including quiet, creative, and imaginative play areas. Learning happens everywhere and at each child's own pace.

Our beautiful, spacious backyard promotes children's interactions with nature. It provides ample opportunities for children to challenge themselves and grow their physical capabilities through active exploration. With grassy areas, barked spaces, gardens, and specially designed equipment, our backyard supports children's physical growth and development. Curiosity is sparked through natural discoveries, changing seasons, and the presence of insects and birds.

At Kidsfirst Kindergartens Shirley, we encourage tamariki to make their own choices and take responsibility for their learning in a supportive and safe environment. They learn to take risks, develop independence, work alongside others, respect diversity, and problem solve. We actively support children's learning, interests, skills, and abilities, valuing every person in our kindergarten as both a teacher and a learner.

We believe in the power of community and connectedness. We warmly welcome new connections and embrace the multiculturalism and diversity of our community. Building trusting, caring, and respectful relationships with whānau/families over time is crucial to our success in supporting and facilitating children's learning. Parents and whānau contribute in many ways, including sharing their aspirations for their children, spending time with us during sessions, sharing their knowledge and strengths, languages, and cultures with our teachers and children, enriching our program.

You'll often see us out and about exploring our community, helping children make sense of their place in it. We have strong relationships with local schools, supporting you and your child during the transition to school.

We recommend enrolling your child for at least two full days initially, gradually building up to five days at their own pace. This allows our teachers to truly get to know your child and ensures consistency in supporting their learning.

Nau mai, tauti mai - come in any time! We would love to show you around and make you feel welcome. Keep an eye out for our special offers, which enable more children to join our not-for-profit, community kindergarten. Hurry, as spaces are limited and these offers are only available for a limited time. Conditions apply.