EarlylearningNZ Find Ideal Preschools in Invercargill Near Me: Quality Providers and Care
Finding the perfect preschool in Invercargill can be an exciting yet overwhelming task. With a variety of choices available, each offering unique teaching philosophies and environments, parents want the best start for their little ones. Explore the top preschools in Invercargill that nurture learning and growth!
Find the Best Preschools in Invercargill
Invercargill offers a variety of preschools that cater to the developmental needs of young children. These early childhood education centers provide nurturing environments where kids can explore, learn, and grow. From play-based learning to structured educational programs, preschools in Invercargill focus on fostering creativity, social skills, and cognitive development. Additionally, many of these facilities are equipped with qualified educators and engaging activities that prepare children for their transition to primary school.
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# 1 BestStart Elles Road
Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 7:30 AM–5:30 PM 7:30 AM–5:30 PM 7:30 AM–5:30 PM 7:30 AM–5:30 PM 7:30 AM–5:30 PM Closed Closed Photos:BestStart Elles Road is a nurturing preschool located at 200 Elles Road in Strathern, Invercargill. The dedicated Kaiako create a warm and welcoming environment where each child feels valued and supported. With a focus on individual learning journeys, the teachers expertly guide children through engaging activities, including their popular bush kindy program, fostering a love for nature and exploration.
Parents appreciate the professionalism and care exhibited by the staff, who are committed to meeting the diverse needs of every tamariki. With flexible hours from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM on weekdays, BestStart Elles Road ensures that children enjoy a safe and enriching preschool experience, giving parents peace of mind as they return to work.
praises complaints Highly rated with a 5-star rating Limited opening hours (closed on weekends) Welcoming and friendly environment No mention of extracurricular activities or programs Teachers are caring and supportive Some parents may find it challenging to leave their children initially Specialized care for children with medical needs Engaging bush kindy program that children love Strong focus on children's learning and development Professional and tolerant staff Children feel safe and happy Positive feedback from parents about the staff Accessible facilities for all children -
# 2 Windsor Montessori Preschool
Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 8:30 AM–4 PM 8:30 AM–4 PM 8:30 AM–4 PM 8:30 AM–4 PM 8:30 AM–1:30 PM Closed Closed Photos:Windsor Montessori Preschool, located at 99 Wilton Street, Windsor, Invercargill, offers a nurturing and engaging environment for young learners. With its focus on fostering curiosity and creativity, the preschool features both indoor and outdoor spaces that are designed to stimulate exploration and learning. The dedicated teaching staff thrive on providing a personalized experience, allowing each child to develop life skills in a warm and supportive atmosphere.
Parents are consistently impressed by the strong communication and the sense of community cultivated within Windsor Montessori. The preschool’s approach emphasizes inclusion and cultural awareness, making it a welcoming space for families. With thoughtful daily activities and healthy meals provided, it’s no wonder families have reported their children thriving and forming lasting connections during their time at this exceptional early education center.
praises complaints Outstanding teaching staff who are passionate and caring Limited opening hours on weekends Calm and engaging learning environment Some parents may find it challenging to secure a spot due to high demand Small class sizes allowing for personalized attention Not all facilities may be available for every child depending on individual needs Excellent communication with parents Diverse and enriching daily activities Accessibility features including wheelchair-accessible facilities Nourishing meals provided Strong sense of community and inclusion for families Positive feedback from parents about children's development and happiness -
# 3 BestStart Kelvin Street
Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 7 AM–5:30 PM 7 AM–5:30 PM 7 AM–5:30 PM 7 AM–5:30 PM 7 AM–5:30 PM Closed Closed Photos:BestStart Kelvin Street in Avenal, Invercargill, offers a nurturing environment for preschoolers, fostering a sense of security and happiness. With experienced teachers and supportive staff, children engage in various learning activities through play and sensory experiences, ensuring they are well-prepared for their educational journey. Parents appreciate the StoryPark app for tracking their child's learning goals and progress.
The centre’s welcoming atmosphere, along with its tailored settling visits, significantly eases the transition for new families. Under the leadership of Centre Manager Sarah Fallow, the team consistently demonstrates exceptional care and support. BestStart Kelvin Street is highly regarded by parents, making it an ideal choice for early childhood education in the community.
praises complaints Excellent experienced teachers and great support staff Limited opening hours (closed on weekends) Children feel safe, happy, and secure Some parents may find it difficult to say goodbye when their child graduates Strong focus on sensory and play-based learning Potential for high demand due to positive reputation, leading to waitlists Accessible facilities including wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance Supportive and helpful Centre Manager, Sarah Fallow Regular updates on children's learning via Story Park app Welcoming environment for children and parents Settling visits help ease transition for new children Highly recommended by parents Long-standing positive reputation in the community -
# 4 Salford Preschool
Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 7:30 AM–6 PM 7:30 AM–6 PM 7:30 AM–6 PM 7:30 AM–6 PM 7:30 AM–6 PM Closed Closed Photos:Salford Preschool, located at 394 Herbert Street, Windsor, Invercargill, offers a nurturing environment for early childhood development. With dedicated staff, this preschool fosters creativity and learning through play-based activities, providing children with a solid foundation for their educational journey.
Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 6 PM, Salford Preschool ensures flexibility for families. The facility emphasizes social skills and personal growth, making it a trusted choice for parents seeking quality preschool education in Invercargill.
praises complaints Highly rated with a perfect score of 5 stars, indicating excellent quality of care and education. Limited operating days as it is closed on Saturdays and Sundays, which may not suit all families' schedules. Accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, making it inclusive for all families. Some parents may find the location less convenient depending on where they live in Invercargill. Open six days a week with extended hours from 7:30 AM to 6 PM, providing flexibility for working parents. Potentially high demand due to its excellent rating, which could lead to waiting lists for enrollment. Located in a convenient area in Windsor, Invercargill, making it easily accessible for local families. Positive feedback from parents about the nurturing and supportive environment for children. -
# 5 BestStart North Road
Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 7 AM–5:30 PM 7 AM–5:30 PM 7 AM–5:30 PM 7 AM–5:30 PM 7 AM–5:30 PM Closed Closed Photos:BestStart North Road, located at 122 North Road, Prestonville, Invercargill, is a welcoming environment for early childhood education. With dedicated teachers and staff, the preschool focuses on fostering positive relationships with children and their families, creating a supportive atmosphere for learning and development.
Operating from 7 AM to 5:30 PM on weekdays, BestStart North Road accommodates the diverse needs of its little learners. Parents appreciate the strong sense of community, feeling like part of the Best Start Whānau. The preschool is committed to providing a nurturing space where every child can thrive.
praises complaints Highly supportive environment for children with specific needs Limited opening hours, only open Monday to Friday Fantastic teachers and staff who are dedicated to their work Closed on weekends, which may not suit all families Strong sense of community and belonging within the preschool Potential for high demand due to positive reputation, leading to waitlists Accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance Consistently high rating of 5 stars from parents -
# 6 Aoga Amata Pre School
Photos:Aoga Amata Pre School, located at 87 Severn Street, Clifton, Invercargill, provides a nurturing environment for young children to explore and learn. This preschool emphasizes play-based learning, which allows children to develop social skills, creativity, and cognitive abilities in a supportive setting.
With a focus on early childhood education, Aoga Amata Pre School offers a variety of engaging activities that cater to the individual needs of each child. Families in the Clifton area can trust this institution to foster a love of learning and prepare their little ones for future educational success.
praises complaints Highly rated with a perfect score of 5 stars Limited information on opening hours Accessible facilities including wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance No available WhatsApp contact for quick communication Located in a convenient area in Clifton, Invercargill Potentially high demand due to excellent reputation, leading to full enrollment Positive environment for early childhood education Supportive and caring staff that foster children's development -
# 7 Waihopai Playcentre
Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Closed 8:45 AM–12:15 PM Closed 8:45 AM–12:15 PM Closed Closed Closed Photos:Waihopai Playcentre is a welcoming preschool located at 98 Layard Street, Windsor, Invercargill. This community-focused center provides a nurturing environment where young children can explore, play, and learn. With engaging activities designed to promote growth and development, Waihopai Playcentre fosters social skills and creativity in every child.
Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM, this preschool is an ideal choice for local families seeking a friendly atmosphere. Enrichment programs and play-based learning are at the heart of their educational approach, making it a wonderful starting point for early childhood education in Invercargill.
praises complaints Highly rated with a perfect score of 5 stars, indicating excellent quality and satisfaction among parents and caregivers. Limited opening hours, only available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, which may not be convenient for all families. Accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, making it inclusive for all families. Closed on weekends and Mondays, potentially limiting options for working parents. Located in a convenient area in Windsor, Invercargill, making it easily accessible for local families. No information available about additional facilities or programs offered, which may be a concern for parents looking for comprehensive care. Dedicated opening hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, allowing for focused engagement during those times. -
# 8 CAS Early Learning Centre (Waikiwi)
Address: CAS Early Learning Centre (Waikiwi) 12 Renfrew Street, Waikiwi, Invercargill 9810, New Zealand 🔗Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 8 AM–5:15 PM 8 AM–5:15 PM 8 AM–5:15 PM 8 AM–5:15 PM 8 AM–5:15 PM Closed Closed Photos:CAS Early Learning Centre (Waikiwi) provides a nurturing environment for young children to flourish. Located at 12 Renfrew Street, Waikiwi, Invercargill, the centre offers a home-like atmosphere complemented by spacious outdoor areas, ideal for active play and exploration. The dedicated team at CAS focuses on both individual and group needs, ensuring that each child's developmental journey is supported with care.
Families appreciate the strong sense of community fostered at CAS. With flexible hours from Monday to Friday, parents can easily incorporate quality early childhood education into their schedules. The enriching programs and attentive staff make this preschool an excellent choice for parents seeking a supportive foundation for their child's learning and social interaction.
praises complaints Exceptional care and support for children Limited opening hours (closed on weekends) Home-like atmosphere that makes children feel comfortable Potentially high demand due to popularity, leading to waitlists Large outdoor space for play and exploration Some parents may prefer more structured educational programs Dedicated and passionate staff, especially Sharyn Strong sense of community and belonging Positive transition to school for children Highly rated with a perfect score of 5 -
# 9 Gladstone Pre School
Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 7:30 AM–6 PM 7:30 AM–6 PM 7:30 AM–6 PM 7:30 AM–6 PM 7:30 AM–6 PM Closed Closed Photos:Gladstone Pre School, located at 20 Lewis Street, Gladstone, Invercargill, offers a nurturing environment for young learners. With dedicated and friendly staff, the preschool focuses on fostering a love of learning through play-based activities. Families can expect a welcoming atmosphere that prioritizes the well-being and development of each child.
Open from 7:30 AM to 6 PM on weekdays, Gladstone Pre School provides convenient hours for working parents. This preschool emphasizes strong communication with parents and encourages active participation in their child's educational journey. Families looking for a supportive and engaging learning experience will find a perfect fit at Gladstone Pre School.
praises complaints Outstanding staff who are friendly and helpful Limited operating days as it is closed on weekends Highly rated with a perfect score of 5 No information on additional facilities or programs offered Welcoming environment that children love Lack of communication options like WhatsApp for parents Accessibility features including wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance Convenient opening hours from Monday to Friday -
# 10 Montessori Invercargill
Photos:Montessori Invercargill, located at 375 Tweed Street, Georgetown, Invercargill, offers a nurturing environment rooted in the Montessori philosophy. Parents appreciate the warm and welcoming atmosphere, where children thrive through hands-on learning and build meaningful relationships with caring staff. This preschool emphasizes individual growth and development, fostering a love for learning in young minds.
Families highly recommend Montessori Invercargill for its strong commitment to child-centered education. With a focus on collaborative play and exploration, children are encouraged to discover their interests. This supportive community creates a family-oriented vibe, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking a positive early childhood experience for their little ones.
praises complaints Warm and welcoming atmosphere Limited information on opening hours Strong emphasis on Montessori philosophy No mention of extracurricular activities Highly qualified and friendly staff Potential for high demand leading to waitlists Children thrive in the learning environment Some parents may prefer a more traditional educational approach Family-oriented approach Accessibility features available Positive relationships between staff and children Highly recommended by parents -
# 11 Woodhouse Early Learning Centre
Address: Woodhouse Early Learning Centre 6 Woodhouse Street, Appleby, Invercargill 9812, New Zealand 🔗Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 6 AM–7 PM 6 AM–7 PM 6 AM–7 PM 6 AM–7 PM 6 AM–7 PM Closed Closed Photos:Woodhouse Early Learning Centre, located at 6 Woodhouse Street, Appleby, Invercargill, offers a preschool environment designed for young children to explore and learn through play. The centre focuses on fostering creativity with engaging activities such as painting, gardening, and baking, all while ensuring a social atmosphere where kids can make friends.
Open Monday through Friday, from 6 AM to 7 PM, the centre encourages a safe and nurturing space for early childhood development. Families appreciate a variety of experiences tailored to help children thrive, making it a notable option for local preschool education in Invercargill.
praises complaints Friendly and supportive environment for children Failed ERO reports for years Engaging activities like painting, planting, and baking Concerns about child safety and supervision Children thrive and enjoy their time at the center Inadequate resources and poorly maintained facilities Safe environment for kids to play and learn Issues with biting incidents and lack of proper response Highly recommended by satisfied parents Owner's dismissive attitude towards complaints Broken gate posing safety risks Negative experiences reported by parents -
# 12 Blue Duck Early Learning Centre
Address: Blue Duck Early Learning Centre 105 Racecourse Road, Ascot, Invercargill 9810, New Zealand 🔗Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 7:30 AM–5:45 PM 7:30 AM–5:45 PM 7:30 AM–5:45 PM 7:30 AM–5:45 PM 7:30 AM–5:45 PM Closed Closed Photos:Blue Duck Early Learning Centre, located at 105 Racecourse Road, Ascot, Invercargill, offers a nurturing environment for young children to thrive. Focused on early childhood education, the centre provides various activities designed to promote learning through play, encouraging creativity and social skills among preschoolers.
Open from Monday to Friday, with convenient hours from 7:30 AM to 5:45 PM, Blue Duck Early Learning Centre prioritizes a structured yet flexible schedule. The dedicated staff supports developmental milestones, ensuring that every child receives personalized attention and care in a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
praises complaints Welcoming and friendly staff who create a nurturing environment for children. Limited operating days as it is closed on weekends, which may not suit all families. Wheelchair-accessible facilities ensure inclusivity for all families. Currently has a low rating, indicating potential areas for improvement. Convenient opening hours from Monday to Friday, accommodating working parents. Some parents may find the location less convenient depending on their residence. Engaging and educational activities that promote early learning and development. Lack of information on additional facilities or programs offered. -
# 13 YMCA Early Learning Centre
Hours:Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 7:45 AM–5:15 PM 7:45 AM–5:15 PM 7:45 AM–5:15 PM 7:45 AM–5:15 PM 7:45 AM–5:15 PM Closed Closed Photos:The YMCA Early Learning Centre in Avenal, Invercargill, provides a nurturing environment designed for young children's growth and development. With a dedicated team of educators, it offers engaging preschool programs that focus on early education, creativity, and social interaction.
Open Monday to Friday from 7:45 AM to 5:15 PM, the centre aims to foster a love for learning while encouraging independence and confidence in each child. Located at 168 Kelvin Street, it serves as a supportive community hub for families seeking quality preschool education in Invercargill.
praises complaints Welcoming and friendly staff who create a nurturing environment for children. Limited opening hours, only available Monday to Friday. Excellent accessibility features, including wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance. No weekend care options for working parents. Structured daily schedule that promotes learning and development. Some parents have expressed concerns about the lack of communication regarding children's progress. Safe and secure premises for children to play and learn. The facility may feel crowded during peak hours, affecting the individual attention given to each child. Positive feedback from parents about the educational programs offered.
Frequently Asked Questions about Preschools in Invercargill
Which preschools in Invercargill offer bilingual or language immersion programs?
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Invercargill has several preschools that provide bilingual or language immersion programs, catering to families who wish to incorporate multiple languages into their children's early education. These programs often focus on teaching languages such as Māori or Mandarin, allowing children to learn in a culturally rich environment. Parents interested in these options should inquire directly with the preschools to understand the specific languages offered, the structure of the programs, and how they integrate language learning with play-based activities.
Are there any preschools in Invercargill that offer programs specifically for children with special needs?
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Yes, there are preschools in Invercargill that are dedicated to providing inclusive education for children with special needs. These preschools often have trained staff who specialize in early childhood education for children with various developmental challenges. They focus on creating an accommodating environment that supports individual learning needs through tailored programs and resources. Parents are encouraged to reach out to these preschools to discuss their child's specific requirements and the support services available.
What are the vaccination requirements for enrolling in preschools in Invercargill?
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Invercargill preschools typically require children to be up to date with their vaccinations before enrollment. This is in line with New Zealand's health regulations aimed at protecting the health of all children in educational settings. Parents should provide proof of their child's immunization status, which may include vaccinations for diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella. It is advisable for parents to consult with their chosen preschool for specific vaccination policies and any additional health requirements that may be in place.
Which preschools in Invercargill emphasize outdoor activities and nature play?
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Many preschools in Invercargill prioritize outdoor activities and nature play as part of their curriculum. These preschools often have dedicated outdoor spaces and programs that encourage children to explore the natural environment, engage in physical activities, and develop a connection with nature. Activities may include gardening, nature walks, and outdoor games that promote physical health and well-being. Parents interested in these programs should look for preschools that highlight their commitment to outdoor learning in their promotional materials or website.
Are there any preschools in Invercargill that align their early education programs with the New Zealand curriculum (Te Whāriki)?
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Yes, several preschools in Invercargill align their early education programs with the New Zealand curriculum, known as Te Whāriki. This curriculum emphasizes a holistic approach to learning, focusing on the development of the whole child through play-based and inquiry-led experiences. Preschools that follow Te Whāriki aim to foster children's learning in areas such as communication, exploration, and contribution to their community. Parents should inquire about how specific preschools implement this curriculum and the learning outcomes they aim to achieve.
Thank You for Exploring Preschools in Invercargill with Us
As you embark on this exciting journey of finding the perfect preschool for your little one in Invercargill, remember that quality care and early education are paramount. Each of the preschools listed offers unique programs and nurturing environments designed to foster your child's growth and development. Whether you prioritize play-based learning, structured curriculums, or a focus on social skills, there’s a place that will meet your family's needs.
We encourage you to share this resource with other parents who may be searching for preschools nearby. If you know of additional quality providers that deserve a mention, please reach out to us! Together, we can create a comprehensive list that helps families in Invercargill make informed decisions about their children's early education. Your input is invaluable in building a supportive community for our little learners.