Our Pre-school
A co-educational Pre-school nurturing children aged 2.5 to 5 years

Welcome
I am proud to lead the Pre-school community and enjoy working with new and existing families. Together with our fully qualified, passionate, and dedicated teaching team, we encourage each child to develop strong relationships which enhances their individual learning needs.
Due to the combination of The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) curriculum and Reggio Emilia approach, we offer children a variety of opportunities which helps them grow.
Our low student-to-teacher ratio ensures that your child’s needs will be met and personalised.
I personally invite you to visit Selwyn House Pre-school, and look forward to seeing you soon.
Rachel Johnston
Head of Pre-school
He taonga te mokopuna, kia whāngaia, kia tipu, kia reai
A child is a treasure, to be nurtured, to grow, to flourish.

Our Teachers
All teaching staff at Selwyn House Pre-school are fully qualified and hold current New Zealand teacher registration. Our educators are committed to delivering the highest standard of care and education to every child.
Our Curriculum
As the only Pre-school in the South Island that offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), the Te Whāriki Curriculum, and influenced by Reggio Emilia, our curriculum incorporates an international perspective into our inquiry-based Pre-school.
Our Philosophy, Vision & Values
Thriving Today, Changing Tomorrow
Our mission is to inspire our students to learn through continuous inquiry, empowering them with the skills, knowledge, courage and optimism to become caring, active, lifelong learners who enhance the lives of others. Our philosophy is deep rooted in the belief that learning during the early years of life is crucial for the development of the whole child.

Our vision is clear, 'Thriving Today, Changing Tomorrow.' Every day, we work to instill the values that will help our students become curious, resilient, courageous and inspirational.
These values further guide our unique programme which is inspired by the world-renowned Reggio Emilia approach and complemented by the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) and New Zealand’s Te Whāriki curriculum. It celebrates the natural wonder and curiosity of children, fostering a life-long love of learning.
Learn more about Selwyn House Pre-School
OUR VALUES
Curious
Embodied within the ethos of Selwyn House School is the value of curiosity – bold, confident, and ever inquisitive. We foster a culture where the pursuit of knowledge is not only encouraged but celebrated. Our students are urged to seek out diverse perspectives, to delve into the depths of self-discovery, and to actively engage with the world around them.
Courageous
We foster an environment where students courageously unite to tackle challenges as a team, while also empowering each individual to demonstrate courage in their own unique way. Each student demonstrates the courage to forge their own path and make a meaningful impact in the world.
Resilient
We empower students to navigate challenges with resilience, rebounding stronger through mutual support and collaboration. In doing so, we equip them with the tools to shape a future where resilience and innovative thinking thrive in tandem.
Inspirational
Our community is a beacon of empowerment and growth. We cultivate leadership qualities, instilling in our students the drive to make meaningful contributions to society. Our students are not just learners; they are catalysts for a brighter future, shaping a world defined by inclusivity and inspiration at every turn.