About us

In Febrary 2000, Rainbows Early Childhood Centre was opened on the campus of EASTWEST College of Intercultural Studies. As a college we take seriously the happiness and well-being of our children, both from student families and staff families. We recognise that to come here as a family has its challenges and we want to be a place where happy memories are made. The establishment of Rainbows has fulfilled a vision, both to care for our college pre-school children but also to welcome community families onto our campus.

Staffing

Rainbows is licensed with the NZ Ministry of Education for 50 children up to the age of 6 although most children in NZ start primary school at 5. Most of our staff have Early Childhood Qualifications along with energy, enthusiasm and a love for God.

Facilities

Rainbows was a purpose-built building, completed in February 2000. It is bright, spacious and fun as well as functional. There are sleeping facilities for under 2 year olds and those over 2 who still require day time sleeps. There is an outside play area which is well fenced. The building was extended and refurbished in summer 2007.

Programme

The programme is based on the Ministry of Education curriculum - Te Whariki. Our aim is to provide age-appropriate activities for all children that are not only enjoyable but will also teach them skills and concepts. The older children are encouraged to learn pre-school skills and have an activity to do at home.

Babies

We have a range of ages and nationalities represented at Rainbows and this gives it both a family and an international flavour. We are licensed to look after up to 10 babies, but it is EASTWEST's recommendation that student mothers should take at least a few months out from study with a new baby.
Students proposing to come to EASTWEST with a baby less than 6 months old need to contact the College to discuss their options. Places at Rainbows are limited.

Philosophy

We believe that children are precious and that their pre-school years are formative. We do not see Rainbows as a "baby-sitting" service - rather it is an Early Childhood Centre, committed to providing quality early childhood experiences that will have a positive impact on each child's life. We agree with the introductory statement made in Te Whariki (Early Childhood Curriculum) that for the children in our care, the contribution that we make at Rainbows will enable them to:

"Grow up as competent and confident learners and communicators,

healthy in mind, body and spirit,

secure in their sense of belonging and in the knowledge

that they make a valued contribution to society."

As Christians we also believe in the preciousness of children to God (Matthew 19:13-15) and take seriously the responsibility to care for them as such.
We respect people's right to choose their religious beliefs and we do not see Rainbows as an opportunity to force our Christian beliefs on the children or families. The Centre is based on and reflects Christian values.