BestStart Merivale

Welcome to BestStart Merivale, located in Christchurch, New Zealand. Our institution is not just a school, but a home-like villa designed with children's comfort in mind. We prioritize the implementation of the RIE philosophy in all our rooms, recognizing each child as an individual with their own unique identity, abilities, and interests. Through our daily experiences, we strive to extend and nurture these qualities.

Conveniently located in a central area and close to bus routes, our institution is easily accessible for families. We are also situated within our community, allowing for regular excursions. These excursions are both spontaneous, following the children's interests, and planned, such as monthly visits to the local vegetable shop and termly visits to the nearby primary school. These visits to the primary school are particularly important as part of our Get Set for School Programme, where we prepare children for the transition to school.

Our team at BestStart Merivale is passionate and friendly, consistently receiving positive feedback from our families. Although we are a new team, we have fostered a great team culture and prioritize having fun both as a team and with the children. Our mixed team brings a range of strengths that are highly valued within our center community.

Each classroom at BestStart Merivale has its own separate outdoor space, providing ample room for exciting play equipment that supports and develops the children's gross motor skills.

In our nursery, our smallest pēpi (babies) have a safe space to explore the world around them. Following the RIE philosophy, they actively participate in their learning, developing at their own pace and in their own time. Our teachers closely observe each child's signals to appropriately challenge and support their development.

For our older children, our preschool program focuses on preparing them for school through our Get Set for School programme. Here, their self-help skills are developed, and they begin to discover the foundations for literacy and numeracy. This program is implemented daily with a structured and planned approach.

We are incredibly thankful that BestStart Merivale has become a part of our families' lives. Our families feel valued within our community, and we go the extra mile to ensure each child is loved and nurtured. The development of our children has significantly accelerated due to the staff's dedication in challenging and engaging them with older children. We look forward to many more wonderful years ahead with BestStart Merivale.

Our families chose BestStart Merivale for various reasons. The welcoming nature of our staff, the clean and spacious rooms, the expansive outdoor garden/play area filled with activities, and the provision of food for the children were all factors that stood out to them. Our relaxed and child-focused atmosphere is greatly appreciated, and children eagerly run into the center in the morning and never want to leave at the end of the day. Our kind and caring staff take excellent care of the children, making our families delighted with their choice.

The transition of our babies from staying at home with their mothers to the nursery was handled with utmost care and professionalism by the BestStart team. They provided regular updates and excellent communication, supporting one nervous mother's return to the workforce.

Since the new management team took over, BestStart Merivale has become an exceptional center. It is truly phenomenal, and we believe there is no better place for our children. We are forever grateful to Amy and the team for providing our children with the best start they could have asked for.

BestStart Merivale is not just a center; it becomes an extended family. We stay true to our values, creating a safe and nurturing environment where children have the tools to play and learn as they grow.

Our children absolutely love attending BestStart Merivale. Our dedicated team is focused on the well-being of our children, families, and community. The center is always clean and tidy, and we provide delicious and healthy food. We highly recommend BestStart Merivale.

The teachers at BestStart Merivale are passionate about their work and form an amazing team. We are delighted that our child attends this center, as they genuinely enjoy their time there. We truly appreciate everything they do.

The team at BestStart Merivale has been incredibly welcoming and supportive to our little girl. In just one month, we have already seen improvements in her speech development from being around other children. The staff are brilliant and easy to communicate with.

We greatly appreciate the effort put in by BestStart Merivale in helping our child settle in. In just one month, we have witnessed significant improvements. Thank you!

Our staff at BestStart Merivale are amazing and provide excellent care. They take great care of our 9-month-old child, ensuring their well-being and development.

Even on cold days, we ensure that the children can play and participate in various activities. We have set up an indoor play area with water play, block building, and singing songs!

At BestStart Merivale, we strive to provide the best possible environment for children to learn, grow, and thrive. Join our extended family and experience the BestStart difference.