What is Learning Through Play?

Learning Through Play involves teachers intentionally creating learning spaces where ākonga/learners can explore, discover, and solve problems in creative ways.

Through play, children can discover their own interests, abilities, and challenges. They use their imagination to explore and investigate, enhancing their memory, building vocabulary, and acquiring new skills and knowledge. Additionally, play helps them learn how to interact with both adults and other children.

What Does It Look Like in our kura/school?

When children first enter school at age 5, they will be given many opportunities to play and become more confident and familiar during the first few weeks, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable transition from their ECE environment.

At the start of Year 1 and (for children starting school as New Entrants later in the year) Year 0, there will be two afternoons dedicated to Learning through play.

Teachers plan hands-on provocations that align with the focus areas in Literacy, Maths, and Inquiry and wider curriculum areas, allowing children to practice the skills they’ve been explicitly taught. These provocations also aim to develop key competencies, social-emotional skills, and physical abilities (such as using scissors or building core strength).

During play, teachers connect with learners, ask questions, offer guidance, and support their learning. It is also an opportunity for teachers to observe both academic and social progress.

Learning through play taps into children's interests and fosters a love for learning. Provocations can be tailored to reflect and build on what captivates the children.

As the year progresses, Year 1 learners will gradually spend less time learning through play as they prepare for Year 2