Local finalist for education award

A Palmerston North pre-school has been named as a finalist for the annual Prime Minister's Education Awards.

Malamalama Moni Aoga Amata is based on Havelock Avenue in Highbury and offers child care and education to the community.

The organisation was named as a finalist in the Leading for Excellence category which recognises "leadership and influence that have strengthened professional capability and created a change in conditions, leading to improved and sustained outcomes for all children and young people".

MMAA supervisor Sului Mamea said staff felt very humbled to be chosen as a finalist.

"We think it's an honour ... it's a reflection of what we have been doing."

Ms Mamea said the centre was founded almost 30 years ago, based on Christian beliefs and the Samoan culture.

"We are a Samoan speaking pre-school but we are open to all children in the community. We have a diverse range of cultures in our centre."

MMAA runs two pre-schools, an after school programme and annual events.

"Our journey has been a long one. It doesn't stop with the pre-school -- we also make an effort to encompass other areas of the community such as with our Pasifika Fusion concert that is open to all high school students."

The centre follows the New Zealand curriculum for early childhood education, and believes all children should be valued and protected.

"It's important to us to have those values to help support the children's learning," Ms Mamea said.

"We include cultural values and are aware of the diverse cultural needs for our children."

National MP Jono Naylor congratulated the pre-school.

"This is great news for Malamalama Moni Aoga Amata and showcases the great work they do in early childhood. The work they have done to change the lives of children deserves to be recognised.

"They have set up an annual festival, celebrated different cultures and languages and supported talented children to succeed by giving them the best possible start."

The annual awards celebrate those who deliver best teaching to children.

The four main categories are excellence in governing, leading, teaching and learning and in engaging.

Category winners receive $20,000 while the the Supreme Award winner receives an additional $30,000.

More information at www.pmawards.education.govt.nz.