Experience the Green Leaves Study Tour
An exclusive professional learning opportunity for Green Leaves Educators to explore, reflect and reimagine early childhood education.
About the Green Leaves Study Tour
The Green Leaves Study Tour is a pedagogical retreat where we immerse ourselves in dialogue, reflection, and the wonderful possibilities of teaching and learning in an early childhood context. Explore new approaches to curriculum, pedagogy, and practice while engaging with Educators, observing programs in action, and reflecting alongside peers. There is no better way to reimagine your own practice than through a full immersion experience in a new educational setting.
The Green Leaves Study Tour is a unique, fully funded professional development opportunity for Educators, offering a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience that inspires growth, innovation, and a deeper connection to our shared values in early childhood education.
In 2026, we’re touring to New Zealand to connect with Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s bi-cultural early childhood curriculum, discovering how it shapes pedagogy and practice.
What’s included?
Your 2026 Study Tour experience
- Expert Study Tour hosts Karen and Kelly, both Kiwi-trained teachers and experienced educational leaders
- Welcome pack, readings and resources to support your trip
- Online meet-up prior to the tour for introductions and preparation
- 5 nights’ accommodation (twin share) at Ibis Wellington, including breakfasts
- 2 full days of centre visits to Childspace and Hutt Valley Kindergartens (6–7 sites)
- Visits to both long day early childhood centres and stand-alone Kindergarten centres
- 1 professional learning day with Toni and Robin Christie (including practice workshops)
- Travel between scheduled events
- Return flights and meals
On the Sunday, it’s a day for you to relax, recharge or explore the beautiful city of Wellington.
Study Tour details
- Destination: Wellington, New Zealand
- Dates: Thursday 19 February – Tuesday 24 February 2026
- Cost: Fully funded by Green Leaves Early Learning
- Visa: Participants must hold a valid passport and any required New Zealand visas.
Application information
We invite Green Leaves Educators to apply for this intensive pedagogical retreat and professional learning experience. This experience requires commitment, curiosity, and reflection. We’re looking for participants who are eager to listen, learn, and share their experiences with the wider Green Leaves community after the tour. Educators from any Green Leaves Centre are invited to apply, including:
How to apply
Your application must be multi-modal or creative, using one or more forms to communicate your story, insights, and passion for early years education. Some examples of creative submissions include:
Your submission should reflect who you are as an Educator and address the following questions:
Ready to apply?
Use the form below to submit your creative application directly. Please attach any files, links, or supporting materials with your entry. All submissions are reviewed by our Study Tour team, and shortlisted applicants will be contacted for the next stage. All applicants will receive a response.
Deadline for applications: Friday 28th November 2025, 5:00pm (AEST)
Submit your application
Key dates
Applications close at 5:00 pm (AEST) on Friday 28 November 2025. Shortlisted applicants will be announced on Friday 5 December 2025, with successful applicants notified on Friday 12 December 2025. All successful applicants must hold a current and valid passport and visa for travel during the Study Tour dates. In addition, they will be required to complete pre-work and study group sessions, covering:
These preparations ensure participants are ready to fully engage with the immersive learning experience and bring valuable insights back to the Green Leaves community.
Our commitments
For the Green Leaves Study Tours, we kindly remind all attendees that this is a professional and supportive space. We expect everyone to be respectful and engaged throughout the Study Tour. Let’s elevate our supportive environment that reflects our values and allows us all to get the most out of our time together.
Have questions?
If you have any questions about the Study Tour, feel free to reach out to Dr Karen Grubb by clicking the button below.
