Our story

Our Story

Tēnā koutou we are Tonia and Murray Salt. We have been the proud owners and operators of James Street for over 20 years now. James Street has been the second home for our whānau and many others over this time. We are passionate about providing a warm, nurturing, and natural environment for all ākonga, whānau and kaiako. Our own ākonga have been an integral part of this journey for us and will often come and spend time helping to maintain our beautiful setting.

Our priorities for ākonga, whānau and kaiako are ensuring that they feel a strong sense of Ūkaipōtanga and that they have the space and time to grow and become the best that they can be.

We both have a background in education with Murray having a Bachelor in Science (Hons), a Diploma in Teaching and 18 years of teaching experience in High Schools. Tonia has a Diploma of Teaching ECE and over 30 years of teaching experience. We are both actively involved in the daily running of James Street, and plan to be for many more years to come.

We work hard to be your

home away from home

Our approach to early childhood education acknowledges the distinct strengths and needs of ākonga. With this in mind, we tailor our teaching to ensure personalised attention and support, fostering an environment where all ākonga thrive.

We prioritise maintaining reciprocal relationships between whānau, ākonga, and kaiako, which help us create a nurturing environment where your ākonga feel at home.

Our environment

View a photo gallery of our unique spaces

Join the

whānau

Be apart of a community of truly passionate early childhood education providers.

If you have a desire to make a difference and are committed to creating a positive impact on ākonga, we would love to hear from you.

Hear what our community

love about us

We recognise that choosing an early childhood provider can be a challenging decision.

Thank you for nurturing our gorgeous wee boy Sebby. He will always remember your love and kindness as well as challenging his inquisitive mind. He tells me he has had a great time at preschool and lately enjoying Moa group. Tom and I will miss chatting with all the preschool teachers and hearing about Sebbys day. Tonia and Murray, you should be very proud of creating such a great team. Kylie I really appreciate your listening ear and reassurance of things over the years. You’re a huge asset. Megan and Miyo – your beautiful food is still Sebbys favourite, we appreciate the care and passion you put into making good kai.

Tom, Amelia, Sebby and Barnaby

We love to hear everything that Rupert has been experiencing at nursery and how he is developing. We get to see a lot of this time at home of course but it is great to know what he is doing in his own wee world so we can keep encouraging the sparks you ignite for him. And the photos are just gorgeous!

Ruth Markham-Short

Thank you for this lovely story of Ruperts new experience and how he is growing. There is peace of mind in knowing he is settling in and accepting new situations. Such wonderful play with his little compainions, so much to do and learn! I’m confident hes in good hands and thank you for such loving support. It means a great deal.

Erica & Steve Markham-Short

So amazing how quickly the time has gone, I remember her first time at nursery and meeting you all. Florence was so comfortable right from the start. The things she learned in the nursery just blows my mind and how much she knows.

Felicity Bryce

Thank you to the James Street team! Your words are so lovely and how well you already know Nico and how comfortable he feels with you. Its very reassuring for us to leave him with you all since he is very happy at nursery.

Esther Richter

Thank you so much! I still remember when we settled Ava in at about 9.5 months and leaving her but she adjusted so well. (Made it easier on us) It's amazing how much she has learnt from you all and made wee friends. She loved feeding the fish, loves her routine and loves being helpful. She's grown so much and loves the babies. Loved our time in the nursery!

Olivia Bell

Secure a place on

our waitlist

No matter if your ākonga is a few months or years away from early childhood education, enquire today for your best chance to get a spot on our waitlist.

Pop in and

see us

Nestled in the stunning coastal community of Redcliffs, the James Street Preschool and Nursery is located in a truly special place. We invite you to explore our unique environment and meet our friendly kaiako.

Come and see for yourself why James Street Preschool and Nursery is the perfect choice for your whānau!