The Preschool was happy to open its doors and welcome its first children and their families on Wednesday 28 September.
The Preschool hosted two official events in the weeks prior to opening. We were honored to have the Taumata Kaumātua (distinguished elders) Bob Hawke and Sarah Grey from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei provide their cultural service and lead the Whakawaerea (clearing) of the land and Tāngia te Whare for the new building.
As is tradition, the blessing took place at dawn. We were also appreciative to be joined by a number of current Ficino School families and teachers, along with Katene Paenga from the faculty of Education and Social Work, University of Auckland who gave his support and guidance through this process. At the conclusion of the whaikōrero (formal speeches) and waiata, a hot breakfast was shared by all as we enjoyed the opportunity to come together and participate in this moving bi-cultural experience.
Our Official Opening was an occasion for celebration, and a chance for the wider community of Ficino and the School of Philosophy to recognize, acknowledge and commemorate the journey from the early days of initial consultations through to the completion of the building and playground. Many people gave their time and expertise along the way and it was opportunity to thank them for their input, without which we would not have reached this point!
National List MP, Paul Goldsmith, shared the honors with Preschool Head Teacher, Ms Trinette Bush, to cut the ribbon and mark the Preschool ‘open’!
We look forward to the start of a new journey with our students and their families as we work together to provide an education for young children that is philosophically inspired and based on the principles of love and play. “Good beginnings never end”.
