Policy I
Policy Statement
Te Puna Reo o Ngā Kākano is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and culturally responsive environment for all tamariki, whānau, and kaimahi. This policy outlines our obligations, procedures, and expectations to ensure the wellbeing and protection of everyone connected to our centre.
Rationale / He Āhua Whakamāori
This policy has been developed in accordance with:
- Te Whāriki – He Whāriki Mātauranga mō ngā Mokopuna o Aotearoa (Early Childhood Curriculum)
- Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008
- Licensing Criteria for Early Childhood Education and Care Services 2008
- Children's Act 2014
- Health and Safety at Work Act 2015
Ngā Whāinga / Objectives
The objectives of this policy are to:
- Ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of all tamariki in our care.
- Protect and promote the rights of tamariki in accordance with Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
- Foster a bicultural environment that values te reo Māori and tikanga Māori.
- Support the ongoing professional development of all kaimahi.
- Maintain open and transparent communication with whānau and the wider community.
Ngā Tikanga / Procedures
1. Responsibilities of Kaimahi
All kaimahi are expected to:
- Uphold the values and principles of Te Whāriki at all times.
- Model positive behaviour and respectful communication.
- Adhere to all relevant legislation and centre policies.
- Participate in ongoing professional learning and development.
- Report any concerns regarding child safety or wellbeing immediately to the Head Teacher / Pouako Matua.
2. Whānau Engagement
Te Puna Reo o Ngā Kākano values the partnership with whānau. We are committed to:
- Maintaining regular communication with whānau through hui, newsletters, and digital platforms.
- Respecting and incorporating whānau knowledge, values, and aspirations into our programme.
- Providing whānau with opportunities to be involved in centre decision-making processes.
- Ensuring all information shared with the centre is treated with confidentiality and respect.
3. Review and Monitoring
This policy will be reviewed:
- Annually, or sooner if legislation or best practice guidance changes.
- In consultation with kaimahi, whānau, and the wider community.
- Following any incident or situation that requires a policy response.
Nā wai e tiaki / Responsible Parties
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Pouako Matua / Head Teacher | Overall implementation and monitoring of this policy |
| Kaimahi / Teaching Staff | Day-to-day adherence and reporting |
| Komiti / Management Committee | Annual review and approval |
| Whānau | Consultation and partnership |
Āpitihanga / Related Policies
- All Centre Policies
- Health and Safety Policy
- Child Protection Policy
- Complaints Policy
- Whānau Engagement Policy
Arotake / Review Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Policy Number | Policy I |
| Date Adopted | 2024 |
| Next Review Date | 2025 |
| Approved By | Komiti / Management Committee |