Mt Cook Preschool

About Mt Cook Preschool
About Free Kindergarten
Free Kindergartens typically offer sessional or part-day early learning programmes led by fully qualified teachers, following Te Whāriki and emphasising learning through play, social interaction, and community involvement. These centres cater to families seeking high-quality education in a not-for-profit, community-based setting with strong ties to local whānau.
What Is 20 Hours ECE funding?
20 Hours ECE is a government-funded initiative that helps reduce the cost of early childhood education for families with tamariki aged 3–5. Eligible children can receive up to 20 hours of funded care and education each week at participating services. Centres can set their own enrolment patterns and may ask for optional charges, but the funded hours themselves should be free of compulsory fees. If you are unsure how this works at Mt Cook Preschool, it is best to ask the centre directly how they apply 20 Hours ECE.
Community Profile
Roll & age distribution
Mt Cook Preschool currently has a roll of 23 children tamariki , with most children enrolled in the 2–5 years age band.
Ethnicity profile
Asian tamariki are the largest group (37% of the roll), alongside european, māori, pacific, other children.
Roll and demographic figures are based on data supplied by the Ministry of Education and were last updated on 01/07/2024.
Parent Reviews
“Mount Cook Primary School is an exceptional educational institution that provides a nurturing and supportive environment for students to thrive. The dedicated teaching staff deliver engaging lessons, fostering academic excellence and curiosity. The school's focus on character development, teamwork, and community values helps students become confident, empathetic, and responsible individuals. Modern facilities and resources enhance the learning experience, while the school's welcoming atmosphere encourages family involvement. I had the privilege of attending Mount Cook Primary School for eight wonderful years, and I can confidently attest to its excellence. My time here was truly transformative, and I cherish the memories and lessons learned. The school's impact on my development and love for learning has been profound. Rating: 5/5 stars.”
“THIS REVIEW IS ON THE MAIN SCHOOL, NOT THE PRESCHOOL. The fact that this school is titled a "diverse school" is quite funny, considering that it has many children ages 5-13 who have no maturity and don't know how to show respect to people and their ethnic background, sexuality, opinions, et cetera. As a child who has been bullied almost every day ever since 2018-2021 at this school, please parents. Whatever you do, DO NOT send your children to this school. Even if it's closer to your home, I still do not recommend it. Sure, sending your children to kindergarten is fine, But once your children start grade 2 or 3, it will all go downhill. Your children may start being discriminated against for any reason, and if you want to prevent that, I highly recommend going to Clyde Quay School because it's safer and more reliable for education and enjoyment.”
“We can remember the first days when our daughter joined the preschool. Although It was her first experience in a new country, the wonderful, friendly and skilled staff helped her learn the new culture and language through creative learning and play. Over one year, we have seen a drastic change in Ava’s confidence in learning new things, communication with other kids and making colourful and beautiful artworks. All these skills have prepared her for the start of school in the next few months. Ava loved coming to preschool everyday --even on weekends- to join all the activities that happened in the inside and outside of the preschool. We are very grateful and happy to find this amazing place for our daughter. Many thanks to Frances, Rebecca, Angela, Toni, Lynne and Wei.”
“Mt Cook Preschool has everything my daughter and I needed: a loving, tight-knit gentle learning environment. The teaching staff are committed to each child and are always in tune with their individual needs. We arrived in Wellington needing a second home for my 4yo - I knew it would define how well she would settle in our new home city. Within days she declared to me she was home! This was a clear testament to how the teachers were focused on engaging with her, encouraging her to express her (very overt) self, and following her lead. My daughter flourished!!! Her leadership was always encouraged. She got to socialise to the optimum every day, just the way she loves to. There are so many fun activities, a child's curiosity always met. It is this genuine care that makes Mt Cook Preschool its own little hive of love, community and fun. All underpinned by wonderful values of whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and a deep awareness of our planet. We will always be grateful for our time with the Mt Cook whanau. The second home for us. Wellington's best kept ECE secret!!”
“Mt. Cook Preschool is a warm friendly learning environment. The teachers are invested in their students and truly care for every child. Our daughter has had a wonderful experience here and the transition to school was beautifully smooth. We are very greatful to have found an active hands-on early childhood education facility.”
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