Education
Children at SIT Childcare in Invercargill have a new outdoor play space, with the centre completing a major upgrade that adds approximately 60 square metres to one of its outdoor learning areas.
The redevelopment includes new fencing, a premium rubberised safety surface that is non-slip, springy and shock absorbent, a blue bike lane around the edge of the play area, tubs for growing flowers, a bark sensory path, and sensory tiles made of different materials. All-weather curtains have also been installed, allowing the area to be used year-round.
Centre Manager Nikki Ross said the transformation had created a safe, engaging and inviting environment that supports children's learning, development and wellbeing throughout the year.
"The children absolutely love it," she said. "The space is colourful, welcoming and designed to encourage active play, exploration and adventure. It has given us even more opportunities to make the most of outdoor learning experiences."
Ross said outdoor learning remains an important part of the centre's philosophy. "We are very intentional about our teaching practices in the outdoor environment," she said. "The new area includes sensory tiles and a bark sensory pathway that children can enjoy and explore through touch, movement and play."
The upgraded space sits alongside the centre's existing outdoor areas, which include trees, grass and natural environments.
Among the most popular additions are child-height windows built into the fence. "The children love watching what is happening beyond the playground," Ross said.
Head Teacher Kelly Murch noted the children especially enjoy seeing emergency service vehicles go past. "And the trains are always a favourite. They know exactly when a train is due and often wait excitedly to see it pass by."
Murch said new purpose-built, all-weather curtains had recently been installed to fit the space. "The curtains help us make the most of the outdoor areas all year round and ensure children can continue exploring and enjoying the environment in a variety of conditions," she said.
SIT Childcare recently celebrated 30 years at its current site on the corner of Eye and Ness Streets.
Ross said families valued the centre's teacher-child ratios, which exceed regulatory requirements. "We have really strong teacher-child ratios across the centre," she said.
"For our under-twos, the ratio is one teacher to four children; two years to three-and-half years tend to have a one to seven ratio, while for children aged three-and-a-half and over, it is one teacher to eight children. In many cases, our ratios are even better than that."
"Those smaller group sizes mean our kaiako can build strong relationships with each child, support their individual learning journey and create a warm, nurturing environment where children feel confident to explore and grow."
Ross said the whole team are proud of the quality of care and the relationships they build with Invercargill children. "We are a whānau-focused centre, and the new outdoor space reflects our commitment to giving children the very best environment to learn, play and thrive."
Spaces are currently available at the centre.