Matapu Preschool, near Hāwera, aims to provide high-quality early childhood education in a warm and welcoming rural setting. It focuses on helping children learn through nature and develop a deeper understanding of their place in the world.
However, funding is an ongoing struggle. With 35 families and eight permanent staff, Matapu receives some Ministry funding but relies on donations, fees and sponsorships to fully fund the centre.
“Matapu has fantastic preschool areas, but we didn’t have a specific area for meetings, nor a place where staff could have a break,” said Emma Hancock, Business Lead Administration Manager.
“We had previously moved our disabled toilet and shower into a new area, and the old room had become a bit of a storage dungeon. So, we decided to transform it into a multi-use meeting room.”
An $8k Toi Foundation grant meant Matapu could transform the cluttered “dungeon” into an inviting space for staff and parent meetings, along with updated storage facilities.
“It was a big job. We removed all the walls, old pipes and flooring. Then the old room only had one light, so we needed better lighting and more electrical sockets. We put in two new windows, jibbed and painted the walls and laid new carpet.
“Finally, we redesigned some old storage units and added some comfy furniture. The whole room has such a warm feeling. It’s really nice to go in there now,” said Emma.
“Toi Foundation staff made it so easy for me to complete our application. They were very helpful – wonderful people to deal with and we’re thrilled with the end result.”
