Prioritising inclusion - with a focus on education for all

Key points

• Centre of Innovation  
• a social justice/rights approach  
• inclusion for all 

Building all children’s mana is a key focus in Te Whāriki. Botany Downs Kindergarten has prioritised inclusion of all children, including those requiring additional support for learning.  

There are many examples in the report (see the link below) that illustrate this priority, including: 

• the preparation of the environment and specific visual communication tools to ensure a child and their family felt welcomed from their very first day  
• the teachers’ recognition of the value of these visual communication tools, originally designed to help children on the autistic spectrum, for all children in the kindergarten  
• the installation of a sound augmentation system to ensure that a teacher can speak in a quiet voice yet be heard by all children.  

Many people assumed that the kindergarten would provide specific help, equipment, and materials only for children with difficulties or impairments. Instead, they focused on the whole environment and aspects of teaching that enhanced participation and learning for all children. They made changes that were likely to be beneficial for all while reducing barriers for children with additional needs.  

Reference:

Glass, B., Baker. K., Ellis, R., Bernstone, H., & Hagan, B. (2010). COI Botany Downs Kindergarten: Inclusion at Botany Downs Kindergarten Centre of Innovation 2006–2008.