Fees & FAQs

We welcome children from 12 months to 6 years across two thoughtfully prepared learning environments:
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Tui Nest: 12 months to 3 years
Whare Kea: 3 to 6 years
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Each room is designed around the developmental needs, interests and growing independence of its age group. If you wish to discuss enrolling a younger infant, get in touch so we can explore how we can help.

Our full-day sessions are available between 7:30am and 6:00pm. We also offer half-day session options, depending on your child’s age and your family’s needs.
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Please contact us to discuss availability and the session times that may work best for your family.

Yes. Eligible children aged 3 to 5 years receive up to 20 Hours ECE each week.
Our team can explain how the funding works alongside your chosen session times and provide information about any additional hours or charges.

We recommend getting in touch as early as possible, particularly when you need specific days or session times.

Availability can change throughout the year. An early enquiry allows us to learn what your family needs and discuss suitable spaces and potential start dates.

Absolutely. Visiting is the best way to experience Riverhead Montessori, meet our kaiako and explore our classrooms and half-acre outdoor environment.

We encourage families to book a personal tour so there is plenty of time to look around, ask questions and decide whether our centre feels right for your child.

Every child settles differently. Some children feel comfortable quickly, while others need more time, reassurance and shorter visits.
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Our kaiako work closely with you to create a gentle, individual settling plan. We focus first on building trust with both you and your child, offering patience, comfort and plenty of reassurance throughout the transition.

Your child’s wellbeing always comes first. If we feel they would benefit from a shorter day while settling, we will contact you and discuss the best approach.
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Settling is a team effort, and we will continue adjusting the plan with you until your child feels secure, confident and happy in their new environment.

Children bring their own lunchbox from home, giving families the freedom to choose food they know their child enjoys and that suits their dietary needs, preferences, or cultural requirements.
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From our experience, children are more likely to enjoy and finish familiar foods from home, helping them stay satisfied, energised, and ready for a full day of learning and play.
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We provide lunchbox guidance based on Ministry of Health food-safety and choking-risk recommendations. Children also enjoy a rolling morning tea with shared fruit or crackers and sometimes bake goodies together to enjoy.
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Fresh drinking water is available throughout the day, and our kaiako makes sure children are eating and drinking well.

Yes. Outdoor play and learning are an important part of every day at Riverhead Montessori - rain or shine.
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Children explore our half-acre grounds, gardens, sandpit, swings, climbing areas, bikes and playhouse. They enjoy mud, water and messy play and are encouraged to climb, dig, balance, garden and discover nature in every season.

No. We follow each child’s individual readiness and work closely with families when it is time to begin toilet learning.
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Together, we create a gentle and consistent plan that respects your child’s pace. Children in nappies are changed as needed, with each change recorded and handled with care, dignity and respect.

Children should remain at home when they are unwell and unable to comfortably participate in the day.
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If your child becomes sick or has an accident while at the centre, we will care for them and contact you when required. Families are asked to tell us about infectious illnesses so we can follow appropriate health guidance and protect our wider community.

Our programme combines holistic Montessori education with play, creativity, movement and meaningful outdoor experiences.
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Children choose from carefully prepared, age-appropriate activities and learn by touching, trying, repeating, creating and discovering. Our kaiako guide each child while giving them the freedom to follow their interests and develop at their own pace.

Children take part in practical life, language, literacy, numeracy, sensorial learning, science, geography, culture, art, music and movement.
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They also learn through friendships, outdoor adventures and everyday responsibilities such as preparing food, caring for plants and looking after their environment. Each experience helps build confidence, coordination, concentration and independence.

School preparation begins by helping children become confident, capable and independent learners.
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Our Whare Kea children develop strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, practical life, geography and cultural learning through hands-on Montessori materials. They also practise communicating, concentrating, solving problems, following routines and caring for themselves and others.

We value open, ongoing communication with whānau.
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Our kaiako share updates about your child’s wellbeing, learning and experiences and are available for conversations at drop-off or collection. Families are always welcome to speak with us about their child’s development, routines or anything happening at home that may help us support them.

Please tell us about any allergies, medical requirements, developmental needs or other important information when you enquire.
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We will meet with you to understand your child’s needs, discuss the support they may require and determine how we can work together to provide a safe, inclusive and positive experience.

Start by completing our enquiry form or contacting our team.
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We will discuss your child’s age, preferred days and hours, answer your questions and arrange a visit. If a suitable place is available, we will guide you through the enrollment and settling process.