Navigating Bright Futures,
One Pioneer at a Time
"With Curiosity as Their Compass and Care as Their Guide"
You can find us in the heart of Thames, conveniently located centrally off Mackay Street, with easy access to support our wider community and whānau.
At Pioneer Kids, we see every tamaiti as a capable explorer ready to begin their own journey through play, discovery, and connection. We offer high-quality early childhood education for children aged 0–6, grounded in the principles of Te Whāriki and guided by respectful, holistic teaching practices.
Our two learning spaces are thoughtfully designed to reflect the needs of both our youngest and oldest tamariki, ensuring they feel safe, seen, and supported at every stage of development.
Strong relationships are at the heart of everything we do. You’ll often find us out in the community—building connections, exploring our surroundings, and learning through real-world experiences that deepen a sense of belonging.
Our Facilities & Services
Infants & Young Toddlers
Our nurturing environment for pēpi and young toddlers is warm, safe, and calming, designed to support their earliest explorations. Dedicated and experienced kaiako (teachers) provide gentle care and individual attention, ensuring every infant feels secure and valued. With sensory-rich spaces and comfortable sleeping areas, your little one will thrive as they begin their learning journey.
Preschool
Our preschool area provides tamariki with diverse learning environments designed to challenge and inspire. Rich in opportunities for exploration, creativity, and interaction, our centre prepares children for school through structured yet playful learning experiences. We celebrate Te Ao Māori, integrating cultural stories, language, and practices daily to strengthen identity, confidence, and a sense of belonging as our tamariki prepare for the next step in their educational journey.
Our Van Service
Pioneer Kids offers a free dedicated van service to support tamariki and their whānau with safe, reliable transport to and from our centre.
This service makes early learning more accessible for families across Thames and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re located nearby or a little further out, our van helps ensure your child arrives safely and on time, ready for a full day of learning, play, and connection.
Our licensed, caring drivers are part of our trusted Pioneer Kids team, providing a smooth and welcoming start and end to each day for your tamaiti.
Our Philosophy
At Pioneer Kids Early Learning Centre, we believe that every child is a unique pioneer of their own life, full of potential and creativity. Grounded in the principles of Te Whāriki—the New Zealand early childhood curriculum we foster holistic development, nurturing not just intellectual growth but emotional, social, cultural, and physical well-being. Through respectful relationships, meaningful play, and a strong connection to whānau and community, we create an inclusive environment where tamariki feel valued, supported, and inspired to explore and learn.We also embrace place-based learning, regularly going on excursions that connect tamariki with the world around them. These hands-on experiences help build a deeper understanding of our local whenua, strengthen community ties, and support learning in authentic, real-world contexts.
