Kia ora, Nau mai, haere mai
Our nonprofit community-owned and operated early childhood center in East Otago serves as a vital resource for families in our rural community. Committed to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, we prioritise the holistic development of every child. Our experienced Kaiako provide engaging and educational experiences that reflect the unique culture and values of the community, promoting strong connections among tamariki, families, whānau, and caregivers. By working collaboratively with local organisations, we strive to enhance access to quality early education, ensuring that all tamariki in East Otago have the opportunity to thrive and grow in a supportive setting.
At Big Steps Educare, we value the importance of close, respectful relationships between us, our tamariki and their whānau, fostering connections with and care of the natural world.
E hara taku toa i te toa takitahi engara, he toa takitini
My successes are not mine alone, they are ours. The greatest successes we will have are from working together.
Our Philosophy
Big Steps Educare is a warm and welcoming, rural not for profit, community-based early childhood centre which encourages and fosters tamariki learning for life. We value the importance of close, respectful relationships between us, our tamariki and their whānau, fostering connections with and care of the natural world.
Big Steps Educare promotes respect, lifelong skills, interdependence (children working with and alongside others), and autonomy amongst a diverse community of learners. This is achieved by encouraging children to think of others, by communicating their ideas, fostering their curiosity, and exploration through play. By recognising and building social and communication skills, children will be challenged and encouraged to achieve their goals alongside whānau aspirations.
Big Steps Educare is a part of a wider, rural community which embraces the values and the cultural diversity that exists within East Otago. Our centre acknowledges and upholds all aspects of Te Ao Māori and is committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi through professional development and through everyday implementation of bicultural practices and Tikanga Māori.
At Big Steps Educare, we value the contributions that the teachers/Kaiako, tamariki and whānau make, as we work together to enhance the learning and development of everyone, irrespective of age, gender, ability, background or ethnicity.
He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata! He tangata! He tangata!
(What is the most important thing? It is people! It is people! It is people!) – The centre’s most valued asset.
