Our People

Maggie Xu , Centre Manager
What inspired you to become an early childhood teacher?
I’ve been working with young children for ten years now, and for me, it is always a rewarding journey. I enjoy every moment that they surprise me, challenge me, delight me and teach me more than I could ever teach them.
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Susan Hewitt, Administrator
Hello my name is Susan - I am the Receptionist/Admin person at the centre! I have 2 daughters - 18 and 21 years old. After working around teenagers in my previous life, it is refreshing to be surrounded by little "explorers" now!
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Vicki Wang , Assistant Manager & Head Teacher - PreSchool Two
Nihao, my name is Vicki and I’m the Head Teacher of Preschool Two. I graduated with a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) and I have been teaching in early childhood settings since 2008. I am very passionate about this wonderful career.
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Rosie Pukeiti , Head Teacher- Nursery One
Kia ora. Ko Rosie Pukeiti toku ingoa.
I am of Cook Island descent born and raised in Auckland. I live locally to the centre, which makes me a part of the diverse community in Ellerslie.
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Joan Ong, Head Teacher - Preschool One
Hello, my name is Joan and I have been working at our centre since December 2018.
I moved to New Zealand with my family when I was 12 and have attended intermediate, high school and university here. I am now a mom to three wonderful teenagers, a 17 year old daughter and 16 year old twin boys. I have always had a passion in teaching, hence I pursued to further my studies and have recently attained the Graduate Diploma in Teaching in Early Childhood Education. I strongly believe children learn and grow in their own unique and exploratory way. I also believe in working in partnership with the families / whanau to ensure they have every opportunity to grow and learn. I cannot wait to get to know your children and support them to gain skills essential for their own independent growth and to build their confidence to reach their full potential.

Amanda Bowdler, Head Teacher - Toddler Room
Kia ora, my name is Amanda Bowdler. I have been teaching for over 13 years. Holding a Bachelor of Education in Primary, I did two years teaching in a Primary school before deciding that my passion is with Early Childhood Education and completing the Graduate Diploma in ECE.
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Colleen Stuart, Head Teacher- Nursery Two
Kia Ora, my name is Colleen Stuart. I have over 20 years’ experience working with children.
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