Kiddywinkles Early Learning Sets the Foundation for Primary School Success

Across New Zealand, some early learning centres excel at fostering school readiness, and Kiddywinkles Early Learning Centre in Huapai is a standout example.

Kiddywinkles recently hosted the Minister of Education, Erica Stanford, who was highly impressed by the centre’s commitment to early education. "Centres like yours are doing an excellent job at getting kids school-ready," she remarked.

Kiddywinkles is far from a centre of mediocrity. Its vibrant learning environment reflects a well-balanced approach, integrating child-led, play-based learning with structured literacy and numeracy activities in the four-year-olds’ room. This approach ensures a seamless transition to primary school, with most children continuing their education at Huapai District School, conveniently located just across the road.

When asked about the significance of early learning for a child before Primary School, Minister Stanford emphasized its impact: "Absolutely critical. We know from evidence that children who attend early learning centres achieve much better outcomes at school." Among the many aspects that impressed her at Kiddywinkles was seeing four-year-olds confidently holding a pen, writing in exercise books, and engaging in number games—clear indicators of a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Kiddywinkles also had the pleasure of welcoming the Minister for Small Business and local MP, Chris Penk. Penk enjoyed seeing how well the children interacted with each other, both inside the large, brightly decorated rooms and in the spacious outdoor areas.

For more insights, listen to the podcast featuring Kiddywinkles’ owner Allen Court and Minister Erica Stanford on the Kiddywinkles’ website and the Kiddywinkles’ Facebook page.