Kidsfirst Belfast | Kidsfirst

Belfast

When you look at Kidsfirst Belfast today, you’d hardly recognise it from the photographs taken not long after it opened in September of 1993.

This photo was taken in 1993 after the kindy had opened. This tree has been a staple of outdoor play at Belfast for many tamariki over the years.

Keeping outdoor spaces relevant to our current kindergarten children has always been part of the Kidsfirst philosophy. From early on in our kindergarten history there was always talk of fresh air, sunshine, and the need for children to have somewhere to run around.

While some environments started out quite basic, there were soon slides, swings, huts and all manner of outdoor equipment. Sandy Bain remembers from her days as President of our Association, being involved in designing play areas…

“When you look back at the photographs of early kindergartens, you’re struck by how desolate they seem. Now, Kidsfirst Kindergartens are lush with vegetation, full of exciting nooks and places to hide and play.”

Below is a picture of the same tree as above, many years later. Look at how it has grown!

Our outdoor spaces are often the result of years of community groups pulling together to create and develop the environments we enjoy each day. Belfast’s outdoor area is one of its true legacies of the past and no doubt will be a central part of the kindergarten and its community, in the future.

1030x579 Gallery Belfast_0009_rope climb

Sometimes you just need to run around with a smile.

The same tree pictured here in 2020.

Memories from our kindergarten album:

The Belfast community has always been passionate about their local kindergarten.
This photo shows past generations of Belfast kindy kids, posing by Kidsfirst advertising.
Past and current Belfast kaiako have all contributed to their kindergarten’s legacy.
Wacky hair days are a staple of kindergarten, and tamariki love embracing the weird and wonderful hairstyles.
(FROM L-R) Justine Martin-McKenzie, Alissa Jardine, and Abbie Harding, kaiako from Kidsfirst Belfast.
Lounging in the big backyard has always been a popular choice of activity at kindergarten.
Kindergarten is a fantastic place for young tamariki to learn social skills and lifelong lessons.
On any given day, playing indoors is also a lot of fun, especially with a good friend.
Though fashions and technology have changed over the years, many of the best parts of kindergarten are still as popular as ever.
Tamariki, whānau, and kaiako from Belfast kindergarten celebrate a birthday together.
The kindergarten is close to both the local school, and a big park, meaning they can have a picnic whenever they like!
Belfast’s tree has seen a lot of change, but has always been at the heart of the kindergarten.
Over the years, as their garden developed, the kindergarten’s space has become more and more unique.