Kia ora!
Kia ora!
About this centre
Hastings Early Learning Centre is a safe, vibrant and welcoming space where quality early learning and our tamariki are at the heart of what we do.
- Set within a beautiful natural environment, our centre is a calm oasis from the busy world with trees full of birds, large indoor fish tanks, an outdoor fish pond and our very own pet chickens.
- We engage our tamariki with the natural world as much as possible, all of the resources and equipment we provide are made from natural materials which support our tamariki in building an appreciation of the earth's taonga.
0–6 years
Individualised support, guidance and resources
Flexible hours
Open 8:00am-5:00pm with part or full day options
Large outdoors
kaiako share their passion for a natural environment that supports tamariki and the wonder and discovery of nature
Nutritious meals
Healthy lunch and snacks made fresh every day
Affordable fees
20 free ECE hours available for children 3+ years.
Expertise and knowledge
Experienced in early childhood for 50 years
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More about us
Convenience
Our aim is to create the best conditions for your child's learning, wellbeing and care. We also know how important it is to give you the convenience you need and reassurance that your child is in safe hands. Our central location, loving team and tailored environment are all waiting to be discovered by your whānau.
Storypark - our online parent communication tool, is just one of the ways we try to make things a little easier for parents to stay in touch. Local excursions, delicious meals and fun activities are just the beginning when it comes to being the best we can be for your child.
Engaging environment
Our happy and nurturing environment will inspire, stimulate and empower your child to learn in their own unique way. The outdoor spaces challenge and excite the imagination, while our spacious and light filled indoor areas offer room for reading, rest, and engaging indoor learning experiences. Our children love painting, waiata and the many natural play areas they have to discover.
Staff who nurture and inspire
Our qualified and experienced teachers are committed to caring for and nurturing your child. They build a strong connection with each child throughout their early learning journey and go out of their way to ensure every child feels supported and their unique needs are met.
Our teachers create positive opportunities for your child to develop physically, mentally and emotionally. They help guide your child as they navigate new friendships, master new skills and build independence and resilience to get ready for school and lay the foundations for lifelong learning.
Connecting with the outdoors
We only know who we are, by knowing where we come from. That's why building a strong connection with nature and our local community is so important. We believe it helps your child develop a sense of belonging and identity and positively influences their learning experiences.
We're so lucky to have so many wonderful options on our doorstep here in Hastings. We grow our own vegetable and herbs in our garden and go on community excursions to the library, Mayfair School, Auntys Garden at Waipatu Marae, Makirikiri Stream, local landmarks and Bill Mathewson Park.
Nutrition and wellbeing
We strive to provide nutritious and delicious meals and snacks to support physical and mental development. We encourage healthy eating habits and offer a balanced menu to keep your child well fueled throughout the day. The children also love being involved and we use the vegetables and herbs we grow, in our meals.
Your child will enjoy:
- Morning snack
- Lunch
- Afternoon snack
Our centre is nut free and we're happy to cater for any allergy or other dietary requirements as required.
Fees and subsidies
We want to make your child's early learning and care experience as affordable as possible. We are a not for profit organisation, so everything we do goes back into supporting your child, the centre and our community.
Our fees include:
- Quality education, care and activities provided by our team of teachers
- Healthy lunch and snacks
- Local outings
Did you know you may eligible for fee and ECE subsidies? Talk to our Centre Manager for further information.
What's happening
Connecting with the community
Our Community excursions include trips to, Mayfair School, Makirikiri Stream, local landmarks and Bill Mathewson Park. It's so important to grow tamariki's experiences to include the community spaces and places of their home.
Connecting with whānau
Our whole community benefits from families and whānau being involved in our centre and their children's learning. Connecting with you via Storypark and celebrating festivals are just some of the ways we include families and whānau.
Connecting with the outdoors
We're so lucky to have so many wonderful options on our doorstep here in Hastings we grow our own vegetable and herbs in our garden and make jams from our lovely orchard.
Stay in touch with Storypark
We use Storypark to record and communicate learning as it happens via photos, video, audio and observations within a secure online environment. Parents and whānau can receive instant feedback and plan new ways to extend their child’s unique interests and abilities.
Testimonials
“Both under two's and over twos are great. There is nothing like it in regards to natural environment and toys. My kids love it and I feel safe as a parent to talk about my parenting.”
Annika Hastings“Awesome staff and great philosophy.”
Callum Hastings“Experienced, patient, understanding staff. A good environment with out plastic toys.”
Patricia Hastings
