Our story & philosophy
Family owned, in Papatoetoe since 2013, with a vision of Creating a Brighter Children's World.
A centre built by a family, for families
The Learning Castle opened in 2013 to serve our community with the best early childhood education we could offer. We are family owned, and the owners run the centre day to day, supporting teachers and knowing every child by name.
Our philosophy embraces whanaungatanga: the diverse families and cultures of Papatoetoe are at the heart of everything we do.
Secure, dynamic and full of belonging
The Learning Castle's aim is to provide a secure and dynamic environment for all children to achieve their full potential. Our Castle recognises that whānau and kaiako play an important role in the learning and development of children. We have an emergent curriculum that encourages and empowers children to learn through play, so children grow up as competent and confident learners and communicators, healthy in mind, body and spirit.
Relationships first
Whānau and kaiako play an important part in children's learning. We value parents' knowledge in every decision about their child.
Learning through play
An emergent, play-based curriculum grounded in Te Whāriki and led by children's own interests.
Many cultures, one Castle
Our multicultural team weaves te reo Māori and children's home languages through the day, so every child feels valued.
Nourished every day
Morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, cooked in our own kitchen and included in your fees.
Safe and secure
A modern, purpose-built centre on a gated site, with separate indoor and outdoor areas for each age group.
Ready for school
Our Super Castle runs a dedicated transition to school programme for every four-year-old.
Passionate, qualified people
Our Castle has a dynamic team of teachers that have vast experience in Early Childhood Education. With maturity and passion the team thrives on building strong relationships with children and their families. All our teachers are early-childhood qualified or in training.
Creating a Brighter Children's World
Come and see The Learning Castle for yourself. Visits take 30 minutes and there's no obligation.