Our Philosophy
Our philosophy reflects 3 core values; relationships, the environment, and identity.
We value Aotearoa’s bi-cultural society. We identify Māori as Tangata Whenua and are committed to upholding the principles of the Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the use of Te Reo as a living language. NatureSpace is an inclusive environment for all.
Relationships
Positive and meaningful relationships are at the heart of our philosophy. We encourage and value strong partnerships with parents and whānau where we aim to communicate, celebrate, and learn together.
At NatureSpace, we believe secure attachments are fundamental to tamariki feeling safe, nurtured and confident to explore and grow.
“The Propensity to make secure emotional bonds to particular individuals is a basic component of human nature.”
The Environment
Regarded as the 3rd teacher, the environment reflects our values and is carefully prepared, empowering children with the freedom to play and explore in open, challenging, enchanting and intimate spaces.
Authentic relationships with the environment are focused on discovery, exciting and engaging the mind and spirit through curiosity, imagination and creativity, in fun and positive ways. Through dialogue with earth and the natural world, we all share in the responsibility of and an appreciation of, living sustainability.
“The wider the range of possibilities we offer children, the more intense will be their motivations and richer their experiences.”
Identity
Each child is seen as curious, capable, and competent. NatureSpace respects and values everyone as an individual by giving them the respect, time, and trust to develop and learn in their own way.
“nā kei te mohio koe ko wai koe, I anga mai koe I hea, kei te mohio koe, kei te anga atu ki hea. If you know who you are, and where you are from, you will know where you are going.”
