Etu Ao, which means 'Morning Star', is a programme providing home based education and care for families in Porirua.  Based on the Pacific tradition of extended family caring for children, Etu Ao offers a strong educational programme within the culture and comfort of a home environment.  

Most of our home educators are informal carers for family or friends who have taken the next step by training as an educator. 

Etu Ao educators work in partnership with qualified teachers to create positive learning environments and experiences for children.

Etu Ao is for:

Families needing an in-home educator – One of our Visiting Teachers will meet with you to find an educator who meets the needs and aspirations (relating to culture, language, religion, education and care) you have for your child.

Families with an existing informal carer – If you already have an informal care arrangement, you and your carer can benefit from our programme.

Carers, or people new to childcare, who would like to become Etu Ao Educators – If you want to train for an educator role, you can take part in our programme. Our programme is open to people with or without experience. We welcome parents who want to stay home with their child and become an educator for additional children (maximum of four, including their own children).