Montana Early Learning Centre | Te Whare Kōhungahunga o Montana 

Montana Early Learning Centre specialises in the respectful care and education of tamariki/children from birth to five years and is licensed for 38 tamariki. The centre is divided into three developmentally appropriate indoor and outdoor areas, which meet the needs of our children and their continual learning. 

Montana’s strong culture of aroha/love and respect is based on our committed team of teachers who value the warm, communicative relationships they have with each other, the children and their parents and whānau. We appreciate the unique bicultural heritage of Aotearoa and also the richness and diversity of our multi-cultural community. As part of the University we have access to the beautiful grounds and gardens, and we often go on expeditions around campus with the tamariki. 

"Teachers model and support children to develop their thinking, problem solving, social confidence, and competence." – ERO Report 

 

Modern and spacious facilities 

Nursery 

The nursery is designed for infants aged up to two years old, with a maximum of 8 pēpi/babies at any one time with two teachers. The teachers' practice is inspired and based on secure attachment, responsive caregiving and freedom of movement and play in an inviting and engaging environment. The home like environment provides a welcoming, friendly space for our youngest tamariki. 

 

Toddler area 

Our toddler area caters for busy toddlers aged from around 18 months till around 3 years. Our qualified teachers continue with the same approach as the nursery, with teachers supporting the holistic learning and development of each individual child. Tamariki are free to choose from a wide variety of play activities which support their physical, social, and cognitive development. We have a maximum of 15 children in this room with 3 teachers.  

 

Pre-school area 

Our pre-school area aims to provide a learning environment that is interactive, engaging and relevant to the children’s interests. This helps promote cognitive, social and emotional growth through both teacher-directed and child-lead play. As this is a specialised area, one of the key focuses is to support our children as best we can for their transition to school. There is a strong focus on developing the fundamental social and co-operative skills that will create a solid foundation for their future learning and relationship building. We support and encourage children to problem solve through their play and for children to take charge of their own learning. Our preschool room has a maximum of 16 children with 2 teachers.

"Children under two years of age are well supported to settle into the centre. They benefit from nurturing relationships, flexible, responsive routines, and an appropriately resourced environment." – ERO Report 

 

Education Review Office (ERO) Report 

In our latest report, ERO found that Montana is well placed to promote positive learning outcomes for children. You can read the full report here. 

 

Bookings 

Montana’s hours are based on the needs of our student parents, so we can be a bit flexible. We offer morning or afternoon sessions as well as full day options. Our session times are 9am-12pm (morning) and 12pm-3pm (afternoon) and 9am-3pm short day. These can be extended earlier in the morning and later in the afternoon, by 15 minute increments if required. 

The centre is open right through the year, closing down for public holidays and a three week break over the Christmas and New Year period. 

 

Confirmed fee structure 2024

Under 3-Year-Old Children	Student Rate	Non-Student Rate
Hourly Rate	$8.00	$9.00
Capped Weekly Rate	$280	$305
Over 3-Year-Old Children	Student Rate	Non-Student Rate
Up to 20 hours ECE subsidy, & up to 6 hours ECE per day After this, rates apply as below:	No Charge	No Charge
Hourly Rate	$8.50	$9.10
Capped Weekly Rate	$205	$215

 

Contact us 

 

Head Teacher or Administrator

Email: montanaelc@ucsa.org.nz

Landline: 033690585 

Mobile: 0272051563

 

 

Opening hours 

Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. 

 

Location 

31 Montana Avenue (corner of Ilam Rd) 
Postal Address: PO Box 31-311, Ilam, Christchurch 8041