Your child’s first five years are an exciting and important time.
From the day they are born, to the day they start school, tamariki grow at a truly remarkable rate. More than 80% of their brain development takes place in these first five years. We know that choosing the right early learning and care environment for your child is one of the biggest decisions you will make. We also understand this can feel a bit overwhelming.
At Barnardos Early Learning, our aim is to make it easy for you to choose and find the best fit for your tamaiti and whānau.
Options to suit your whānau
We know that having choices and being flexible is really important. That’s why we offer both centre and home based early learning options. Chances are our network of 21 centres and over 100 home based educators across the motu mean there’s something near you. This ultimately gives you the choice and flexibility your whānau needs in today’s busy world.
Centre based early learning
Each Barnardos Early Learning Centre is thoughtfully designed for children aged 0–6 years old. With engaging indoor and outdoor learning spaces, our kaiako work alongside you and your child to nurture curiosity, support individual learning journeys, and celebrate each child’s unique strengths and interests.
Why choose a centre?
- Quality early learning and care – Our qualified kaiako are passionate about nurturing children’s curiosity, development, and wellbeing.
- Convenience – With 21 centres in central locations across Aotearoa, many offering flexible hours, it’s easy to fit quality early learning for your child into your busy life.
- Friendship and community – Your child will have the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of children, build lifelong friendships, and growing your community of local parents.
Home Based early learning
Our Home Based Educators provide your child with personalised attention and care in a warm, home environment. Your child will enjoy a unique early learning experience with a close-knit group of up to three other children, fostering strong connections and a sense of belonging.
Why choose home based?
- Flexibility – Care is tailored to suit your family’s needs, with hours that fit your lifestyle and a home based setting that feels familiar and comfortable.
- Nurturing – Your child will have one dedicated Educator, caring for no more than four children, supporting everyday learning and childhood experiences right in your local community.
- Experience – Our passionate, trained Educators follow Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s Early Childhood Education curriculum, and are supported by regular visits from a qualified, registered Visiting Teacher to ensure high-quality learning and care.
Search locations near you
Not sure which choice is right for you?
We take the time to find out what’s important to you and your whānau when it comes to your child’s early learning journey. Our Barnardos Early Learning Community Coordinators are here for just that reason.
How our Community Coordinators can help
- Local knowledge – Community Coordinators know your local area and early learning. They work with you to find either a centre or home based service which meets the needs of your child and whānau.
- Confidence – Community Coordinators will connect you with your local Centre Manager or Visiting Teacher who will walk you through the whole process – from visiting suitable centre’s or home based educators, to getting through all the paperwork and settling your child into their new environment.
- Reassurance – if we don’t have a care choice that suits you, they’ll lead you in the right direction. Because at Barnardos Early Learning, we want what’s right for you and your whānau.
