Our Philosophy, Vision, and Values

"Teaching is the greatest act of optimism."

- Colleen Wilcox

Our Philosophy

At Wonderhub ELC, we believe that every child is born with a natural sense of curiosity, imagination, and wonder about the world. These qualities are at the heart of how tamariki learn, and we are here to nurture and grow them every day.

We value a strong balance between teacher-led learning and child-led play, where tamariki can express themselves freely and develop confidence in their own abilities while also being supported by knowledgable, and responsive kaiako.

The spaces we create are more than just places to play, they are thoughtfully designed environments that support learning in every corner. We believe the environment is the “third teacher”, it should spark curiosity, invite exploration, and encourage children to connect with the world in real and meaningful ways. Whether it's indoors or out in nature, we make sure our spaces are calm, inspiring, and full of opportunities to learn through play.

We know that for tamariki to truly thrive, they need to feel safe, seen, and supported. That’s why we work closely with whānau to build strong, trusting relationships and create a sense of belonging for every child.

At Wonderhub, we see each child as capable, competent, and full. of potential, and we are here to support them to grow into confident, curious learners. Our centre is a place where imagination is welcomed, questions are encouraged, and learning happens naturally: through play, connection, and wonder.


Our Vision

At Wonderhub Early Learning Centre, our vision is to be a place where every child feels a deep sense of belonging, where their natural curiosity is celebrated, and where learning is driven by joy, imagination, and wonder.

Our Values

1. Inclusivity & Belonging: We value an approach where every tamariki, kaiako, and whānau member feels a deep sense of belonging. We embrace diversity, encourage authenticity, and ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to our learning community

2. Balanced Learning: We value a balanced approach where intentional teaching and child-led play work hand in hand. Our kaiako provide purposeful guidance to introduce new ideas, skis, and concepts, while also creating space for tamariki to explore, imagine, and express themselves through play in their own authentic way.

3. The Environment as the Third Teacher: We value the physical environment as a powerful influence on children’s learning and development. Our spaces are thoughtfully designed to be calm, inviting, and inspiring, encouraging independence, curiosity, and meaningful interactions with the world around them.