Wild of Heart, Loving in Nature. These are the values that shape the WildHeart Philosophy.
Kotahitanga
At WildHeart, we use collaboration as a way to be together, share together and be as one. In order to know others, we must first know ourselves. We are proud to embrace Te Tiriti o Waitangi through authentic partnerships with Māori learners and by reciprocating knowledge of Tikanga and Te Reo Māori with our whānau and tamariki, as well as sharing and celebrating the many other wonderful cultures represented within our WildHeart environment.
Whanaungatanga
Valuing relationships with whānau, community and iwi is shown at WildHeart through our hospitality. Sharing with whanau is what we enjoy the most. We strive to connect with whānau to create warm, supportive, meaningful relationships to best support ākonga on their own unique learning journey. A journey that is rich in all curriculum areas whilst also supporting ākonga to develop social competence in a safe and developmentally appropriate way. Any whānau of our WildHeart tamariki are warmly welcomed with open arms at any time.
Manaakitanga
Extending aroha and compassion to others is at the heart of everything we do. We show this through integrity, trust, authenticity, equity, generosity and mutual respect. Our kaiako are respected and celebrated as unique individuals each on their own learning journey as kaiako. At WildHeart, we support their professional and personal goals and encourage them to utilise their skills and seek support for their areas of growth. Our kaiako are vital to the development of ākonga and their wellbeing is of the utmost importance. Through supporting ngā kaiako, enables them to do their best to, in turn, support ngā tamariki.
Hauora
Primary and secondary caregiving is the foundation of all we encompass at WildHeart ensuring ngā tamariki develop a strong sense of belonging and well-being through robust settling and programme processes based on each child’s unique rhythm. Our tamariki are viewed as capable learners who are able to construct their own learning with scaffolding from kaiako and whānau. They are worthy of kindness, love, patience and are nurtured as natural communicators and collaborators.
Mauritanga
RIE, Pikler and the Reggio principles around whakaute (respect) are incorporated into daily practice providing an environment that will not only support children to be the best they can be, but it will also support them to thrive and flourish in growing wairua (spirit). Joy and wonder embrace the essence of life and grows a higher purpose for better well-being. Through our programme and values, we support ākonga through role modelling and scaffolding to grow respect for themselves, others and the environment.
Whakamana
Whakamana (the principle of empowerment) is present with our Aotearoa curriculum; Te Whāriki, which guides us to empower ākonga in an environment where they feel a sense of pride and identity. All at WildHeart are accepted and celebrated for who they are and where they come from and they are reminded that they are valued as individuals. Kaiako work as kaiwaihanga pāhekoheko (co-constructors), providing guidance and support as ākonga explore and express their ideas, desires, and feelings freely through child led, nature based play. The environment is seen as the third teacher, allowing ākonga the space for freedom of movement, exploration, discovery and to develop working theories about our natural world in a safe and nurturing environment. The work of tamariki is respectfully displayed with pride to be able to share with others.
