Our Approach

Learning
& Care

Our learning is grounded in New Zealand's Te Whariki curriculum — complemented by dedicated Montessori programmes at our Mission Heights and Highland Park centres — so every child thrives physically, emotionally, and intellectually.

Our Four Pillars

Te Whariki Curriculum

New Zealand's national early childhood curriculum underpins everything we do — a natural alignment with national best practice that nurtures every child's growth, belonging and wellbeing.

  • Wellbeing — Mana Atua
  • Belonging — Mana Whenua
  • Contribution — Mana Tangata
  • Communication — Mana Reo
  • Exploration — Mana Aoturoa

School Readiness Programme

Our specialised transition-to-school programme ensures children are not just ready academically, but socially and emotionally prepared. Children typically begin reading and writing before their school entry age.

  • Literacy & numeracy foundations
  • Social skills & independence
  • Emotional regulation
  • Writing & pre-reading activities

Healthy Heart Programme

In partnership with the Heart Foundation's Healthy Heart Programme, our on-site cooks prepare fresh, nutritious meals daily using seasonal ingredients. Because healthy bodies support healthy minds.

Only Auckland
  • Fresh meals prepared on-site daily
  • Seasonal ingredients
  • Dietitian-approved menus
  • Allergy & dietary accommodations

Montessori Philosophy

Self-directed activity, hands-on learning and collaborative play. Children make creative choices while teachers guide with age-appropriate activities using all five senses. Our Mission Heights and Highland Park centres run dedicated Montessori programmes registered with Montessori New Zealand.

Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him into the world.
— Maria Montessori
  • Child-led exploration
  • Hands-on materials
  • Mixed-age groupings
  • Uninterrupted work periods

Programmes by Age

Li'l Champs Infants programme
0 – 18 months

Infants

In the early months of life, care routines are a large component of the infant's day. Our teachers support your child to develop security and trust that their needs will be met.

As your child gains an increasing awareness of their own body and how they can interact with their surroundings, our teachers respond to their personal developmental progress by providing appropriate resources and experiences to extend their inborn drive to develop independence.

Li'l Champs Toddlers programme
18 months – 3 years

Toddlers

During this period children are rapidly developing their sense of self. The development of independence can be challenging for children as they experience and learn to manage a range of emotions. With the knowledge and understanding of how children learn, our teachers support your child through this transition from infant to child.

Li'l Champs Preschool programme
3 – 6 years

Preschool

The Li'l Champs Preschool programme helps prepare your child for a smooth transition to school. Activities are designed to promote cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development.

Your child will develop early literacy and numeracy skills as well as learning about the world around them through science, geography and cultural experiences. The indoor and outdoor curriculum are designed to provoke your child's curiosity to learn.

Ages We Care For

3 months – 2 years
Infants & Toddlers
Nurturing, responsive care in a safe, stimulating environment.
2 – 3 years
Transitional
Introductory hands-on, child-led activities as children grow into preschool.
3 – 6 years
Preschool
A full preschool programme with school readiness preparation.