Our People

Maggie Xu

Centre Manager

Kia Ora, my name is Maggie Xu. I am originally from China and moved to New Zealand with my husband in 2000. I am a proud mum of two teenage boys. I graduated from New Zealand Tertiary College with a Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood. I have been working in the centre since 2009 and it’s my privilege to be able to lead an amazing team at Active Explorers Ellerslie.

I believe each child has the potential to bring something unique to the world, I am extremely passionate about providing high quality education for all children and support them to achieve their full potential within our care. I look forward to meeting you at our centre.

Rebecca Goh

Head Teacher- Nursery One and Two

Kia ora, I have been working in early childhood for almost 21 years. I graduated from Auckland College of Education (now Auckland University) with a Bachelor of Education (teaching). I have been working in the nursery rooms for 8 years.

I am a mum to Poppy, Hazel, and our cat, Ranger. I love being outdoors in nature, a passion I want to instil in my teaching. I am a strong believer in ‘nature knows best’, allowing the children to gain their skills and abilities at their own pace. Emmi Pikler is a big inspiration to me as a teacher, encouraging freedom of movement, a culture of respect, and that no baby needs ‘help’ to reach their milestones.

Nicky Davis

Assistant Manager, Head teacher- Toddlers

Kia Ora, my name is Nicky Davis. I hold a Bachelor in Sport and Recreation and a Graduate Diploma in ECE. I have worked in hospitality for many years managing a variety of premises across Auckland. I have an interest in health and wellness and am, just your average gym junkie.

Growing up in the small town of Kerikeri has made me value the importance of the relationships within the community and extended Whanau. I am a devoted aunty of three.

I have been teaching for over 8 years now. I have a passion for Toddlers and love the milestones they achieve with their energy and knowledge. At Active Explorers, each of my days is a new exciting adventure as I become a part of their learning journey.

Colleen Stuart

Head Teacher- Preschool One

Kia Ora, my name is Colleen Stuart. I have over 20 years’ experience working with children. 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.

Amanda Bowdler

Acting Head Teacher- Preschool Two

Kia ora, my name is Amanda Bowdler. I have been teaching for over 12 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. 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.