Little Star Edu-Care Centre opened its gates in April 1994. From its first day to today, in keeping with Fr Philippe Bedin’s vision for Little Star, the Centre has always been an integral part of the outreach component of our parish’s life. The Centre operates on a non-profit basis and fees are kept relatively low. Little Star is one of the cheapest edu-care centres in the area. Parents who can afford to pay only a part of their fees, or who cannot afford to pay the fees at all, are often cross-subsidised by those who can. Ms Anne King (pictured on the right), is a parishioner and is a qualified teacher and the principal of Little Star. She has been with the Centre since it started.

The Centre is open to all children, especially to those in our community who might not otherwise have access to it. The ethos of the Centre is always to create a loving, caring, stimulating and safe environment for all children. The doors to the Centre are always open, especially to visitors, so if you would like to pop in, please feel free to pay us a visit anytime. Alternatively, you can make an appointment to see the principal, Anne King, by phoning her on 031 903-6160 or you can send an email to info@littlestar-educare.co.za

The Centre caters for children ranging from babies to Grade R. We have a spacious and well-equipped nursery. The school is divided into four groups. The nursery, which is run by Denise and assisted by Tilda. Red Group, which is taught by Sally and assisted by Nolwazi. Blue Group, which is taught by Lee and also assisted by Nolwazi. Yellow Group, or Grade R, which is taught by Anne and assisted by Claire. There is also an after-care service that is run by Brenda and assisted by Millie.

Each Group at Little Star follows a curriculum which has been well-tested and professionally designed for each age group. We are currently using a programme called Day-by-Day. The lessons are graded and range from 18 months to six year-olds.

Little Star also offers a variety of extra-mural activities including music which is run by a professional music teacher. The children learn about musical instruments, play musical games and learn new songs. Three concerts are performed every year: a Birthday Concert, a Spring Concert and a Christmas Concert. There is also a presentation for the Graduation Ceremony. Other extra-mural activities include: swimming, pottery classes, computer lessons, ballet and Catrobatkidz. The grade R children visit the Amanzimtoti Library once a week.

The Centre offers breakfast at 08:00, a mid-morning snack is at 10:00, lunch at 12:00 and afternoon snack at 15:00. The tuckshop is open every Friday. During the holiday periods, when the attendance is lower, picnics, braais and outings are organised.

There are two gardens, a big spacious garden that is equipped with a large jungle gym swings and a sand pit, and a smaller garden that has a variety of playground equipment.

Little Star is located in the buildings behind the church. For more information and other contact details please visit Little Star’s own website at http://www.littlestar-educare.co.za