Our People

What do you love most about what you do?

Working alongside the families/whanau to support children to achieve their full potential.

What are three things that set your centre apart?

Our dedicated teaching team, our enriched learning curriculum, and our engaged families!

What is your favourite time of the year at the centre?

Almost every day is my favourite time at the centre, because it’s a joy to work with our wonderful teachers, lovely children and supportive families. 

Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood

I have been teaching in early childhood as a qualified teacher for six years and I have worked at Active Explorers for over two years. My teaching philosophy is drawn from various philosophies, such as Pikler, Bronfenbrenner, Vygotsky and Reggio Emilia. I feel that it is important for children to learn at their own pace as each child is

unique in their character and personality. I also believe in building strong relationships with children and their families. A strong connection between the home and centre environment ensures a smooth transition into an early childcare environment.

This began when I joined my local Playcentre with my two children. It was here that I learnt the value of the free play environment where children develop skills to become strong, capable and resilient, rich with wonder and knowledge. When my children went to school, I began my Early Childhood Teaching. Children have been and continue to be my greatest teachers in life and continually inspire me to be a better teacher. 

Growing up in Auckland, I love being out in the fresh air while walking my dog, and gardening and spending time with my family. Being raised in Auckland I have a great appreciation for our multicultural society and enjoy supporting the tamariki to develop the skills required become competent and confident life-long learners.

I graduated from Manukau Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE). I am a fully registered teacher and had more than 9 years of experience working with young children.

I am passionate about meaningful, high quality early childhood education. I believe each child is unique and through respectful relationships, love and support they will grow in their own way.

I’m a mother of two children, Aiden and Ailsa and I am happily married to my husband Mason.

As a teacher, I always believe in a learning community which promotes respect and collaboration. I believe each child needs to be respected, in order to bring out the best in them. I am pleased and excited to be part of the teaching team at Active Explorers Ellerslie since 2016 and I can’t wait to meet and work alongside your child and your whanau.