BestStart Wigram

Welcome to BestStart Wigram, a leading institution located on Corsair Drive in Christchurch, New Zealand. As an establishment, point of interest, and school, we prioritize providing the best learning experiences for children in a nurturing and supportive environment.

At BestStart Wigram, we believe in giving children the time they need to explore. Through intentional planning, we offer unhurried routines and learning experiences that cater to each child's individual needs and allow them to explore at their own pace.

We also value the importance of building reciprocal relationships with children and their whanau (family). By nurturing trust and respect, we gain a holistic and culturally responsive lens, ensuring that children have a sense of belonging and self.

Effective communication is another key aspect of our institution. We understand that smooth transitions are essential for our tamariki (children) and their whanau, both within and beyond their time with us. We strive to support children through change, making them feel supported and secure.

We believe that play is essential for children's development, and we provide developmentally appropriate challenges that align with their interests. Our aim is to create a happy and content environment where children can have fun and be helpful to one another.

These values guide our teaching approach and are also reflected in our engagement with whanau. We aim to make teaching and learning more visible for our families, ensuring their involvement and support.

Our center boasts seven classrooms across two buildings, allowing us to provide age-specific challenges and individualized learning and care programs as children grow and develop.

For infants and toddlers, we have nurturing teachers who understand each child's routine and requirements. These teachers work closely with parents to ensure a familiar and caring approach, giving children the security of a familiar face every day.

Our program for older children focuses on fostering their natural curiosity and love for learning. We actively support children in exploring and preparing them for their journey to primary school. We have a reciprocal relationship with Wigram School, where our older children go on regular excursions and have new entrant teachers visit them at our center.

At BestStart Wigram, we have a team of experienced and qualified teachers who are dedicated to supporting and enhancing your child's learning journey. With low staff turnover, children can experience stability and see the same familiar faces every day. We also have Chinese teachers who support children and families that use English as a second language.

We offer a range of session options to accommodate individual commitments and lifestyles, providing flexibility for families.

Our outdoor environment is spacious and allows our teachers to challenge children physically, helping them gain control over their bodies. The interchangeable outdoor equipment offers variety and empowers children to make decisions about their learning.

In our Rua Building, children experience a homely environment with a small group of peers, building their confidence and letting them shine.

But don't just take our word for it. Here's what some of our parents have to say:

"My 1-year-old daughter has loved starting in the nursery; the safe, comfortable environment gives her confidence to explore. I was able to feel very comfortable with my decision to enroll her here as my 4-year-old son has had such positive experiences in both the Preschool and currently in the Prep Room."

"The staff are the most lovely people and take great care of our child. They have formed a strong relationship with my son, and he adores them."

We take pride in our well-presented center, where our staff is always engaging with all children. Parents are greeted warmly and informed about their child's day.

We embrace diversity and celebrate all the different cultures present in our center.

At BestStart Wigram, we are committed to providing the best possible learning experiences for your child. Come and join us in creating a nurturing and supportive environment where children can explore, learn, and have fun.