Early Childhood Centre
Crossroads Early Childhood Centre (CECC) is a whānau/family focused, Christian Centre providing Playgroup and all-day education and care. We believe it takes a village to raise a child and at CECC your child and you will be immersed in a warm and friendly village of encouragement and support.
We promote and teach the fruits of the spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control) and aspire that when children leave us, they know what the fruits are and how to enact them in their daily lives.
eXPLORERS playgroup
9:15 - 12:15 Monday-Thursday
Explorers Playgroup is a place of friendship, a place of support, a place for you.
In our purpose built, creative environment registered teachers work with you and your child to support and extend learning and development. If you are looking for a place to be, a place to breathe, a place to thrive, this is the place for you.
We are a not for profit organization, created to support parents and whānau and attendance is by donation.
CALL US FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ARRANGE FOR A VISIT: 06 358 0669
Bright Ideas
8:15 – 3.45 MONDAY-Friday *
(*Up to 30 hours free for 3 & 4-year old’s, minimum hours and conditions apply, please contact for further information)
Bright Ideas programme, for children aged 2 years 8 months to 5 years is designed to grow children’s social expertise and ignite their passion for learning.
Small groups and age focused planning ensure children acquire the skills for continuity from early childhood through to school. Our emphasis on the fruits of the spirit guide children to become kind, caring and community minded. Bright Ideas children leave CECC competent and confident learners, communicators, and contributors to society.
This programme qualifies for 20 hours of ECE funding for children over 3 years old. If your child is not yet 3-years old, the fee is $6.50 per hour. WINZ subsidies are also available.
CALL US FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ARRANGE FOR A VISIT: 06 358 0669
Our Philosophy
Relationships are the foundation on which Crossroads Early Childhood Centre is embedded.
We provide a welcoming haven, where all families/whānau, children and teachers feel respected, safe, supported, and valued. A place for you, where individuals and relationships can grow and flourish.
Crossroads Early Childhood Centre has a nurturing Christian character where children, families/whānau and teachers are free to share about their relationship with Jesus.
We believe that all children are unique and precious to God. We are dedicated to learning about each child, acknowledging their abilities, strengths, interest’s, cultural identity, and affirming who they are and where they come from. We support children to develop the fruits of the spirit in learning and in life.
We deliver high quality education in partnership with parents and whānau, creating stimulating, thoughtful, meaningful learning environments where children and whānau can actively engage. We acknowledge Māori as tangata whenua (the indigenous people) and commit to building relationships that are in the spirit of partnership, participation and protection.
Meet the staff
terri
centre leader
I am a born and bred, proud Palmerstonian. My tribal affiliations are Rangitāne and Ngāti Kahungunu. I have three adult children and a very patient husband who is always willing to fix the toys!
I have 30 years’ experience working in Early Childhood and am passionate about supporting children, whānau and teachers to succeed and thrive.
When not at the Centre, I can be found singing and dancing around the house or snuggled up with a good book.
christine
explorers senior teacher
I joined the teaching team at Crossroads Early Childhood Centre in 2007. I have a Teaching Diploma (ECE), Kindergarten Diploma, and Full Teacher Certification, with many years of teaching experience.
I love working alongside our parents/caregivers and their children in a stimulating and nurturing environment where we can grow and thrive together.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, music, hitting a ball around the golf course and enjoying the great outdoors.
Jessica
Explorers Teacher
I joined the Crossroads Early Childhood Centre team in 2019. I work with the Explorers Playgroup session as a qualified teacher.
I am married to Leighton and have two amazing young children, Genevieve and Arthur. I love baking, spending time with family, and getting involved in craft projects.
Erina
Bright Ideas Senior Teacher
I was born in Dannevirke and grew up on a farm in Hamua, Pahiatua. I have over 20 years’ of experience working in Early Childhood and hold a Diploma in Early Childhood Education. I like to model friendliness, honesty and respect for the environment and people of all walks of life. I am passionate about children’s growth in learning and supporting them to become competent and confident learners.
I have a beautiful daughter and a loving, supportive husband. I have a love for mountain biking, hiking, tramping and a new found liking in trail running.
Amanda
BRIGHT IDEAS TEACHER
I am currently working at Crossroads Early Childhood Centre doing a 12 month maternity leave cover. I completed my Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) in late 2019. I am looking forward to creating meaningful relationships with the Crossroads Community and supporting children on their early childhood learning journey.
Out of the Centre I am mum to 3 busy boys, and to make life interesting, we are renovating our older home. When I’m not painting, I enjoy cooking and baking.
Sharlotte
Student Teacher
I have been working at Crossroads Early Childhood Centre since 2018 as a Student Teacher. I am studying towards a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE). I enjoy teaching, learning from the children and being able to share my faith with the families and children who attend our Centre. I was previously a teacher aide and this has driven me to pursuing a degree in teaching.
I am married to Chris and we have two amazing daughters, Elizabeth and Victoria.. As a family we attend Crossroads Church. When not at work or studying, I enjoy working in the garden or baking.
Toni
Finance Administrator
I have been working at Crossroads Early Childhood Centre in an administrative role since 2007. I was born in Wanganui where I meet my husband Geoff, and we moved to Palmerston North in 1997. We have two sons which have kept our lives very busy. I enjoy exercising to music, walking our family dog and fellowshipping at Arise Church, Palmerston North.
Treena
Office Administrator
I began working at Crossroads Early Childhood Centre in 2012, and several years before had attended Explorers with my children. I handle enrolments, keeping families informed of Centre happenings, and a diverse range of other tasks.
I attend Crossroads Church; am married to Glenn and we have three young adult children.
Outside of work I enjoy creating and sewing for my small craft business.
Marilyn
Kaitiaki/Community Care Worker
I provide pastoral care and family support to the Centres families.
My husband Ross and I attend Crossroads Church and we have 4 adult children.
At home I enjoy spending time with family and drawing portraits of pets and people.