Art-based early childhood | Above and Beyond Education and Care Centres (Ep1)

The Early Learning Podcast

Michelle introduces the series and we take a look at what is coming up. We will be spending time with the Above and Beyond centres in Tauranga, New Zealand. Above and Beyond is a network of 5 early childhood centres. Their unique approach to early childhood is founded upon the arts and creativity. The Above and Beyond centres have been a labour of love, intricately designed to be unique and inspire creativity in children. Each one has its own theme which is faithfully carried out across the entire centre. From Alice’s wonderland, to a magical castle; one inspired by Dr Suess, and another, Winnie the Pooh! The care and attention to detail was amazing to see firsthand, and over the course of this series you will get to join us as we look into each one in detail. In terms of philosophy and innovation - Above and Beyond, like the name suggests, believe in going the extra mile to nurture the development of children. In the short time we were with them the children performed for a local author, visited a music studio to record a song, they were joined by a local artist, and harvested their own freshly grown vegetables for lunch! We got to meet educators and administration staff to talk in detail about art, drama, music, multiculturalism, sustainability, how they welcome new children, and how their centres support not only children, but their wider communities too. Throughout the series we’ll sit in on discussions about community, sustainability, transitions, structure versus free play and “the importance of being bored!” So whether you agree with everything Above and Beyond do or not, we're sure you’ll find that watching it inspires you in some way.