Our Values

Whakawhanaungatanga

• Tamariki and whānau feel a sense of belonging at Giggles – they see pictures of themselves, they hear their languages, they know the routines and expectations of behaviour at Giggles.
• Tamariki and whānau are encouraged to share things from home.  Whānau aspirations for tamariki are acknowledged and acted on.
• Visitors are always welcomed and introduced to staff/tamariki/whānau – whakawhanaungatanga.
• Regular excursions and visitors to the centre support the establishment of our identity within the community.
• We encourage open communication between whānau/kaiako/tamariki.
• Kaiako understand the home context of each tamaiti.

 
Whakamana

• We provide a curriculum that responds to the interests and strengths of ā tātou tamariki.
• Tamariki are supported to contribute to decisions about their learning and are offered opportunities for leadership within the programme.
• Planning and assessment focus on building the identities of ngā tamariki as successful learners.
• Tamariki and whānau Māori see and hear ‘themselves’ at Giggles, supporting tamariki Māori to achieve success as Māori.
• Learning is displayed so it can be revisited, shared, celebrated and extended on. 
• Tuakana/teina relationships and the concept of āko are valued.  Kaiako accept that they are not always the experts and embrace opportunities for learning from and with tamariki and whānau.

 
Kotahitanga

• There is a shared understanding between kaiako and whānau of the Giggles vision, philosophy and goals.
• Kaiako work collaboratively, allowing each other opportunities to lead in our own areas of passion or expertise.
• Kaiako and whānau work together informally and formally to achieve positive learning outcomes for tamariki.
• Tamariki, whānau and where appropriate community, are involved in decision-making about the programme.
• Kaiako are focused on meeting whānau aspirations for their tamariki – including their voices in learning stories and encouraging whānau participation in the programme.
• Giggles tautoko whānau as well as tamariki to achieve their goals including support for whānau to access appropriate agencies for support.

 
Kaitiakitanga

•  We aim to develop a shared respect for te taiao and an understanding of our role in caring for it.
• Tamariki and kaiako work together to care for our māra (garden).
• We encourage a sense of responsibility for ourselves, our belongings and our world. 
• Giggles kaiako role model sustainable habits such as recycling and reusing.
• We are developing an understanding of cause and effect – for example, if we use all of the water we will run out.
• Tamariki are supported to develop social competence as they work with and alongside others – taking turns, sharing, being kind, thoughtful, using manners, saying hello to people who say hello to them.

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