YMCA Early Learning Centre 13A Bishopdale Court, Bishopdale, Christchurch, Canterbury 8053

"I can't recommend this nursery and preschool enough! Their amazing teachers create a nurturing, respectful, diverse, imaginative environment for every child (and they family). Our son loves being part of this tamariki and the wide range of activities they get up to. The teachers' focus on meeting the individual child at his/hers level and supporting their cognitive, social and behavioral development in a positive and kind manner that is truly heartwarming. The fact that the children regularly get to use many of the YMCA's facilities for gymnastics, dance, yoga, football etc is an added bonus!"

"I was hesitant at taking my son to a preschool, but the staff at the YMCA were amazing, at helping him to settle in, always making us feel welcome, and included. He loves joining in on the extra activities like gymnastics. His confidence has grown. I feel rest assured that when he goes to preschool, his needs are being meet, by the caring and amazing team. He always comes home tired and happy, from having a fun filled day."

"We visited a lot of daycares in the area and chose the YMCA because we loved the community feel. The kids are always out and about, taking part in activities and visiting places like the gym, library and park. Our daughter took some time settling in but the teachers have been wonderful with her and now she has really found her feet and has made some great friends. We love the Y :)"

"Fantastic home away from home early learning centre. Kind, caring qualified teachers who know your child well and cater to their needs. Small numbers so children get lots of quality care and play based learning experiences. Many community outings to the library and nearby playgrounds. Able to use the facilities and instructors at the YMCA . Great to be able to take part in gymnastics, ripper rugby and many other confidence boosting activities or just have a run and play in the gym on a cold, wet day. Children can help with food preparation and get many opportunities for messy play and exploration. The centre encourages theme days (discos, wheels day, Matariki), where children can dress up or bring something from home."

"Our children both attend the YMCA Bishopdale Preschool, with our oldest being there for the last 3.5 years. I can not recommend them enough - the teachers are nothing short of incredible, so invested in the children and their development. Especially love the fact they have so many great facilities nearby which means the children can make regular excursions - my kids both love gymnastics, going to the park for lunch and to Bishopdale library. The teachers always have areas set up for the kids to explore, and at pick-up they always have time to let us know what our kids have been up to and advice where we've asked about any challenges we've been having."