Infants & Toddlers Centre - Masterton

Programme

The primary care giving system allows teachers to know children well.  Teachers use observations to formally document the children’s strengths, interests and dispositions. Experiences are planned that are responsive and further develop children’s skills and interests.  For example:

• teachers use a variety of teaching strategies 
• equipment & resources support children to explore and investigate at their own pace and
• allow children to develop working theories and revisit them
• trips within the community offer experiences within the wider world
• communication with parents supports and extends children’s learning (a combined approach)

ERO – Education Review Office

ERO visited the centre in 2021 and found infants and toddlers benefit from warm relationships with teachers who are sensitive to their cues. Teachers provide a calm and settled environment that allows infants and toddlers the space and time to lead their own learning. Responsive caregiving meets their need for strong and secure attachments. Oral language is a key focus for teachers working with these very young children.

Leaders and teachers work collaboratively to develop knowledge and expertise to design and implement a responsive curriculum.

Childrens learning and development in play-based contexts is supported through a sound planning-framework. This involves parents and whānau and takes account of their perspectives and aspirations. Information about the childrens participation, development and friendships contributes to the full picture of each as a learner.

A full copy of the report can be found at www.ero.govt.nz