He Whare Manaaki Tangata is the gifted name for the teen parent unit, which includes the kindergarten, Arohanui, and the secondary education space, Poipoia.

Arohanui Kindergarten opened in 2014 to provide education and care for the tamariki of parents studying at Poipoia, with spaces also offered to the wider community.

The kindergarten provides a calm and inclusive environment with safe spaces, and natural experiences for our pepe, as well as a stimulating programme for older tamariki. The well-being of tamariki and whānau aspirations are at the heart of planning and decision making.

All kaiako are qualified, registered and committed to providing a high quality education. The team works collaboratively with kaiako from Poipoia to create a sense of learning together as a community. 

Some parents study with the Open Polytechnic and use the kindergarten as a base for this.

Raewyn McKenna from Whānau Manaaki Kindergartens says "Arohanui caters for the learning needs of both children and the teenage parents."

“The environment has some really lovely features” she says. “While the learning areas are separate, there is a central hub where everyone can gather together.”

Continuing with secondary education is a priority, but the parenting role of the students is equally valued. 

He Whare Manaaki Tangata, the teen parent unit, fits well with Whānau Manaaki Kindergartens’ approach of providing a variety of ways for young children to experience high quality education.

Find out more about Arohanui Kindergarten here