Our Curriculum

At Chilton Preschool, we nurture children’s sense of belonging, guided by the Chilton St James School values of respect, inclusivity, resilience and integrity.  Our young learners have the opportunity to explore, to be curious and creative in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Our co-educational preschool, set within an established school community, offers timetabled specialist classes of music and library sessions (from 2 years old) and dance (from 3 years old).  Transition to Chilton Primary is seamless for girls, with a familiar environment and regular transition visits.

The preschool curriculum encompasses a blend of child-led exploration alongside structured learning in preparation for primary school, with the NZ Early Childhood Curriculum, Te Whāriki at the core.  Our experienced teaching team creates a warm and caring space with a focus on well-being alongside early literacy and numeracy learning.

We offer full day and extended day options for under 2 – 5 year old girls and boys. The Chilton ECE is a special and caring preschool that welcomes all families and whanau in Lower Hutt and beyond.

A Day in the Life of a Preschooler

The preschool ECE day begins with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where teachers create a nurturing environment that encourages curiosity and exploration.

From colourful arts and crafts projects to interactive storytelling sessions, every moment is an opportunity for hands-on learning and imaginative play.

Outdoor playtime is a cherished part of the day, fostering physical development and teamwork.

With a carefully crafted ECE curriculum that combines structured learning with free play, Chilton Preschool ECE ensures that each child’s unique needs are met, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning in a supportive and joyous educational environment in Lower Hutt.

Meet the Teachers

Head Teacher of Preschool is Felicity Fogarty

Children at Chilton ECE preschool in Lower Hutt

Our Preschool Teachers

Rebecca Joshua

Rebecca Joshua

Michelle Ye

Michelle Ye

Brigette Faure

Brigette Faure

Lorna Clendon

Lorna Clendon

Ingrid Neumayr

Ingrid Neumayr

Felicity Fogarty

Felicity Fogarty

Melinda Verchez

Melinda Verchez

Ayesha Maniparathy

Ayesha Maniparathy

Other Information

Pastoral Care is at the heart of everything we do. Children and their whanau experience a home away from home at Chilton Preschool and know that they are safe here.

Our excellent teacher to child ratios and small, well considered group sizes mean that the best education is delivered to our Preschool students.

To view our latest ERO report, click here.

Developing and maintaining successful inter-personal relationships and social skills are vital to children’s success in later life.  We provide an early learning setting that carefully nurtures children as they grow and learn alongside others

Chilton Preschool students graduate from Preschool fully prepared for their entry into Chilton Primary School.  Our skilled teachers work with you individually to ensure the transition from Preschool to Primary school is easy and enjoyable for all.