About Us

History of the kindergarten movement and Canterbury Westland Free Kindergarten Association

The kindergarten movement

The Free Kindergarten movement began in 1889 with the opening of a kindergarten in Dunedin, with just 14 children. A New Zealand Union was formed in 1913 but due to the First World War, no further meetings were held until 1926 when the New Zealand Free Kindergarten Union was formed. This evolved into the New Zealand Free Kindergarten Association Incorporated.

The New Zealand Free Kindergarten Association Incorporated is now New Zealand Kindergartens Incorporated and the Canterbury Westland Free Kindergarten Association Incorporated comes under its umbrella.

On the local scene

The first kindergarten opened in Sydenham but closed after two years due to a lack of funds. In 1899 a second kindergarten opened in St Albans and, more than a hundred years later, this kindergarten is still in operation as Kidsfirst Kindergartens Sunbeam.

In January 2000 Canterbury Westland Free Kindergarten Association launched its new brand name 'Kidsfirst Kindergartens' - a new name reflecting a new millennium.

The Association, with an annual turnover of approximately $7.2 million, employs approximately 180 permanent teachers and about 50 relieving teachers. The Association has an elected Council of voluntary people, generally ex local kindergarten committee members.

The role of the Council is one of governance and responsibility for the employment of the Chief Executive, Administration Staff, Teaching Staff and a Professional Services Team which provides professional advice and support.

To enable the kindergartens to function effectively, Council, Committees, the Professional Services Team, Head Teachers, Teachers and Administration Staff work together in a climate of goodwill, respect and cooperation.

Kidsfirst children are prepared for the next stage in their education under the kindergarten philosophy.

This means that alongside a strong focus on education, we put a lot of emphasis on community and parental involvement, cultural issues, creativity, self-discovery and awareness, active learning and providing a safe, supportive and welcoming environment for children to try new ideas and be challenged with new experiences.