our curriculum
What Guides Our Curriculum
Our curriculum is grounded in the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and respects tangata whenua. Children are introduced to Te Reo Māori and tikanga Māori through waiata, stories, reciting, weaving, and meaningful experiences that help them understand Aotearoa’s cultural heritage.
We are committed to inclusive practice. Children with additional learning needs are supported with care, fairness, and strategies that help them participate confidently in all learning activities.
We value strong partnerships with parents and aiga. Families are recognised as the child’s first teachers, and we work together to strengthen learning, belonging, and wellbeing. Parents are involved in decision-making and are an important part of our Aoga Amata community.
WHAT CHILDREN LEARN AT FOTUMALAMA
Our Programme Supports the Whole Child
Infants (6 months – 1 yr)
We provide a calm, loving space where infants feel secure and supported. Through gentle routines, warm relationships, and opportunities to explore safely, children begin to develop confidence and awareness of the world around them. Our faiaoga respond to each child’s cues with care and respect.
Toddlers (2 yrs – 3 yrs)
Toddlers are encouraged to explore their growing independence while still receiving nurturing guidance. Our teaching team supports language development, social confidence, problem-solving skills, and early self-help abilities through play, movement, and meaningful interactions.
Toddlers (2 yrs – 3 yrs)
Preschool children are supported as they prepare for their transition to school. Learning experiences focus on independence, social competence, early literacy and numeracy foundations, creativity, and cultural identity. Our curriculum is engaging and purposeful, helping each child grow intellectually, socially, spiritually, physically, and emotionally.
Partners
