Writing, letters, and numbers
Children are introduced to letters, numbers, and their own names through playful, hands-on experiences that build early confidence with literacy and numeracy.
Getting ready for school
Supporting children to feel confident about the move to school.
School readiness is about more than letters and numbers. At Highfield Haven, it also means independence, social confidence, resilience, and a strong sense that children can manage the next step.
Our approach
Our getting-ready-for-school programme supports children to build the practical skills, social confidence, and emotional readiness they need for their next learning journey.
Starting school is a big milestone, and Highfield Haven works alongside tamariki and whānau to help the transition feel positive, steady, and confidence-building.
How we support tamariki
Self-help and independence
Tamariki are supported to manage belongings, wash hands, serve food, tidy up, and take increasing responsibility for simple daily routines.
Knowing how to ask for help
Children are encouraged to give things a go, communicate clearly, and learn that asking for support is part of becoming a confident learner.
Learning with others
Group times, shared projects, and collaborative play help children practise listening, turn-taking, sharing ideas, and contributing to a group.
Emotional readiness
We help children build resilience, friendship skills, empathy, and confidence with separation from whānau so they feel secure about the move to school.
Programme moments
A look at the kinds of experiences that help children feel ready for what comes next.
