ABOUT MINNOWS

Teacher and Child | Omokoroa Kindergarten

A place where children can feel safe, confident and free to be themselves.

At Minnows Kindergarten, we believe children learn best when they feel secure, valued and supported. Our aim is to create a warm, welcoming environment where children can build trusting relationships, develop independence and confidence, and discover the joy of learning through everyday experiences.
We are proud to be a small, quality-focused centre where children are known as individuals and their interests, personalities and learning needs are genuinely understood.

Our experienced team works closely with children and their families to create a positive early learning experience, one where every child has the opportunity to grow, explore and thrive.

Meet Nirmala

Nirmala Madhavan- Owner and Centre Manager

With 38 years of experience working with young children across the primary and early childhood sectors, Nirmala brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and passion to Minnows. Almost 19 of those years have been dedicated to the early childhood education sector, including successfully managing early learning centres.

Owning and running her own quality childcare centre was a long-held dream for Nirmala, and she created Minnows with the vision of making it a place that feels like a second home for children.

Nirmala's approach is centred around understanding each child as an individual and responding thoughtfully to their emotional, social and developmental needs. She believes that when children feel genuinely cared for, respected and secure, they are able to build the confidence to explore, learn and develop a strong sense of who they are.

“When children feel secure and valued, they have the confidence to explore, learn and grow.”

As a reflective practitioner, Nirmala continually considers and evaluates the centre's programmes, teaching practices and philosophy. She welcomes feedback and ideas from families and the wider Minnows community, believing that listening and reflecting are an important part of providing the best possible learning environment for children.

Families are always welcome to approach Nirmala with questions, ideas or simply for a chat.

Nirmala's qualifications

Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education
Master of Arts
Bachelor of Education (Primary)
Diploma in Systems Analysis and Data Processing
Certificate in Office Administration and Computing

Helping every child grow with confidence

At Minnows, our mission is to provide an environment where every child feels safe, respected, cared for and valued for who they are.
We take the time to understand each child's individual needs, interests and personality, responding with warmth, patience and genuine care. By building trusting relationships and providing the right support and encouragement, we help children become confident, capable and increasingly independent learners.

Confidence

To try new things, express themselves and believe in their own abilities.

Independence

To make choices, solve problems and develop the skills to become capable learners.

A strong sence of self

To feel secure in who they are and know that their ideas, feelings and contributions matter.

a love of learning

To remain curious, ask questions, explore their world and discover new things every day.

Learning Together with Families
Parents and whānau are an important part of your child's learning journey.We recognise that parents and whānau are a child's first and most important teachers. When families and educators work together, children benefit from a consistent and supportive learning experience. We encourage open communication and value the knowledge that families bring about their children. Sharing your child's interests, experiences, strengths and needs helps us create learning opportunities that are meaningful to them.

Our Open-Door Approach
You're always welcome at Minnows. We believe that families should feel comfortable being part of their child's early learning experience. Our doors are open to parents and whānau, and we encourage you to spend time at the centre, get involved in your child's learning and connect with our teachers. Whether you're dropping in for a chat, joining an activity or simply wanting to see what your child has been getting up to, you are always welcome at Minnows.

🕐 Our Hours
Monday – Friday
7:30am – 5:30pm
We are closed on public holidays.

💛 Childcare Subsidy
Depending on your family's circumstances, you may be eligible for financial assistance towards your childcare costs.
Our team can help you understand what support may be available to your family and point you in the right direction.
Have questions? Get in touch with us.

🌱 20 Hours ECE
Eligible children can access 20 Hours ECE, helping make quality early childhood education more accessible for families.
Our team can talk you through how 20 Hours ECE works at Minnows and answer any questions you may have.
Ask us about 20 Hours ECE →