This July, New Shoots Sandhurst marks 10 years as part of the wider New Shoots Children’s Centres community. The milestone is an opportunity to recognise the centre’s place within New Shoots’ approach to early childhood education in New Zealand, where thoughtful environments, meaningful learning and strong local communities sit at the heart of centre life. 

Centre Director, Meg, shares her reflections on Sandhurst’s journey so far

Over the past decade, our centre has become more than just a place for early learning. It has become a second home for many tamariki and whānau, a place where lifelong friendships have formed, milestones have been celebrated, and memories have been made together.  

As we reflect on the journey of the past 10 years, we are filled with gratitude for every child, family and kaiako who has helped shape the heart of New Shoots Sandhurst into what it is today.  

From the very beginning, there was something special about Sandhurst. While the buildings and spaces created the foundation, it was always the people within them who brought the centre to life. The laughter echoing through the playground, the warm welcomes at drop-off, the comforting cuddles, messy play, storytelling, celebrations and shared moments of joy quickly became the heartbeat of our centre.  

Over the years, we have had the privilege of walking alongside so many tamariki during some of the most important stages of their early years. We have watched first steps turn into confident strides, quiet children discover their voices, and friendships blossom through play and exploration. There is something incredibly meaningful about being trusted with those precious early years, and it is a responsibility we have always held close to our hearts.  

One of the most rewarding parts of our journey has been seeing families remain connected to Sandhurst over time. We have welcomed younger siblings through our doors, watched children graduate to school and return years later to visit, and built relationships with whānau that extend far beyond their time at the centre. Those ongoing connections are a true reflection of the strong sense of belonging that exists within our community.  

Life at Sandhurst has always been centred around meaningful relationships and everyday moments. Often, it is the simple things that capture the heart of our centre best — children working together to build imaginative worlds, muddy gumboots after their Akotanga Tuanuku adventures, spontaneous dancing and singing, shared kai with friends, and the pride on a child’s face when they achieve something new for the very first time.  

Our traditions and celebrations have also become treasured parts of centre life. Whether gathering together for community events, celebrating cultural occasions, marking milestones, or simply spending time together as whānau, these moments have helped create lasting memories and strengthened the sense of connection within our centre.  

At New Shoots Sandhurst, we have always believed that children thrive when they feel safe, valued and deeply connected. Creating an environment where tamariki feel confident to explore, ask questions, build friendships and express themselves has remained at the heart of everything we do. Through play, discovery and nurturing relationships, children are supported to develop not only skills for school, but confidence, resilience and a strong sense of identity that will stay with them throughout life.    

As we celebrate 10 years, we also celebrate the incredible kaiako who have poured their passion, care and dedication into the centre over the years. Their commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences and genuine relationships has shaped the culture of Sandhurst and left a lasting impact on countless children and families. Yes, we do have a beautiful environment and quality resources but this does not make us successful – it’s the people within these walls that sets us apart but I feel truly bless to have the pleasure of working alongside this incredible team.  

Reaching this milestone is a moment of reflection, pride and gratitude. While much has changed over the past decade, the heart of Sandhurst has remained the same — a warm, welcoming community where children are nurtured, relationships are valued, and everyone belongs.  

To every child who has played in our gardens, every whānau who has trusted us with their little ones, every kaiako who has shared their passion, and every member of our wider community who has supported us along the way — thank you for being part of the New Shoots Sandhurst story and playing the part you have that makes us who are are today. 
  

As New Shoots Sandhurst steps into its next chapter, this milestone is a reminder of what makes the centre so special. It is a story shaped by people, shared over many years, and grounded in the values that continue to guide New Shoots Children’s Centres today. 

We look forward to seeing the Sandhurst community continue to grow, welcoming new tamariki and whānau while carrying the heart of the past 10 years into the future. 

Written by Meg McLean – Our Centre Director at New Shoots Sandhurst and Papamoa Centres

–

Want to find out more about New Shoots Children’s Centres?
Our website is a great place to start. You can:

Find the centre nearest you

• Contact us to organise a visit
• Discover our curriculum, vision and foundation principles
• For regular updates like us on Facebook and Instagram.