Fees, 20 Hours ECE & starting at the Castle
Quality, affordable care. Our vision is that childcare should be free for every child in New Zealand, and we work with every family to get as close to that as we can.
Affordable, and often free
20 Hours ECE
The government funds up to 20 hours a week of early childhood education for every 3, 4 and 5 year old. We'll set it up with you.
WINZ Childcare Subsidy & FamilyBoost
Many Papatoetoe families qualify for extra help with fees. We'll show you how to apply and what you could receive.
Free childcare when conditions are met
Provided certain conditions are met, we strive to provide free childcare. Where there is a cost, we partner with families to reduce it. Talk to our centre manager.
Scholarships programme
Our scholarships programme rewards children as they enter primary school, building a sense of achievement for every child. Ask our centre director for details.
Minibus pick-up & drop-off
We know some families have difficulty with transport. Provided certain conditions are met, our centre minibus can pick up and drop off children.
Settling in, step by step
Visit us
Book a 30-minute visit. Meet the teachers, see the Castle and ask anything.
Enrol
Three quick questions on our site, then the full enrolment form through Discover Childcare.
Settling visits
Short visits with you in the room first, then a little longer each day, at your child's pace.
First day
Bring a bag with spare clothes, a comfort item and any bottles. Meals and bedding are provided.
Good to know
Can't find your question? Use Ask Castle at the bottom of the page, or call us on 09 278 5252.
What are your opening hours?
Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 6.00pm. We're closed on public holidays.
What ages do you take?
From babies up to 5 years: Baby Castle (0–2), Toddler Castle (2–3) and Super Castle (3–5). We're licensed for 70 children, including up to 10 under two.
Are meals included?
Yes. Morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are cooked in our kitchen and included at no extra cost.
How much does it cost?
Children aged 3–5 can get 20 Hours ECE. Many families qualify for the WINZ Childcare Subsidy or FamilyBoost too, and we offer free childcare when certain conditions are met. Book a visit and we'll go through your options.
Do you offer transport?
Our centre minibus can pick up and drop off children when certain conditions are met. Ask us about your area.
What should my child bring?
A bag with spare clothes, a comfort item if they have one, and bottles or formula for babies. We provide meals, bedding and sunhats.
How do I enrol?
Start on our Enrol page. It takes three quick steps, then you'll complete the full enrolment form through Discover Childcare, our enrolment system.
Creating a Brighter Children's World
Come and see The Learning Castle for yourself. Visits take 30 minutes and there's no obligation.