Our People
Kimberley Fryer, Centre Manager
What inspired you to become an early childhood teacher?
When my daughter was an infant, I saw what a difference it made to have an adult caring primarily for a child. We developed a close, trusting relationship and I became interested in ways that I could support her learning (at that stage it was her desire to get moving!). I began reading about infant brain development and was surprised to learn that how children develop in the first five years of life, affects their life-long outcomes. I knew that I wanted to be part of ensuring that those first five years create positive life-long outcomes for children.
Marites Sagarbarria, Assistant Centre Manager and Head Teacher Ngahere
Hello, my name Maz Sagarbarria and I am the Assistant Centre Manager, and Head Teacher of our Ngahere Room. I have a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) and have a strong interest in transition to school. I enjoy teaching because it feels good to know that you can make a difference in children’s development and be part of their achievement when they leave to go to school. I have a son, Gianni, and I like the outdoors and being active.
Lynda Hopkin, Head Teacher Koru
Hello, my name is Lynda Hopkin and I am the Head Teacher in our Koru Room.
I have a Diploma in Teaching ECE and I am a fully registered teacher. I have been working as an ECE teacher for over 20 years as working with children is extremely rewarding. It gives me so much pleasure in getting to know children and families in our local community and working together in partnership to inspire the children to be confident and capable young learners. I have 3 adult children and now have beautiful grandchildren, whom I love to spend time with in the weekends. I live in Newlands and am enjoying living and working in my local community.