We have four full-time staff and Two permanent-part timers to allow Tamariki and their whānau to build strong, consistent relationships with staff members. We are blessed to have the best teachers in Pōkeno, with a wealth of experience and a whole heap of love in their hearts:
|
Angelique Dervin - Qualified Teacher/Owner:
Kia Ora, my name is Angelique. I became qualified in 2003 with a Bachelor of Teaching from Auckland College of Education. I have worked in all aspects of early childhood and enjoy immersing my creativeness into teaching. I am inspired by Kimberely Krisp and her philosophy with the use of natural and loose parts helping children to extend their learning through imagination and real play. I am married with two boys Alex and Dylan, we love adventures and travelling in amongst soccer games, gardening and lots of pets. Born in South Africa with French/English parents. |
Leanne Baker - Qualified Teacher/Owner:
Kia Ora. Ko Leanne toku ingoa.
I have been a qualified teacher since 2012 with a Bachelor of Education Primary from Auckland University. I had every intention of becoming a primary school teacher but the little ones stole my heart and I have never looked back.
I see it as my job to provide children with the opportunities to grow and learn, through play, creating life long learners who are proactive in participating in life, and who are great problem solvers.
I have one son, Taine, who is in his 20's now. Time goes so fast. Enjoy them while they are little.
I am also a Life Coach that has previously worked with women to help them move on after divorce/break up/loss.
Being one of the centre owners is a big commitment, so when I do have spare time I like to enjoy it with my whanau and some of the many great friends I have made over the years. I love exploring this beautiful country of ours and experiencing the rich multi culturalism that Aotearoa has to offer.
Kia Ora. Ko Leanne toku ingoa.
I have been a qualified teacher since 2012 with a Bachelor of Education Primary from Auckland University. I had every intention of becoming a primary school teacher but the little ones stole my heart and I have never looked back.
I see it as my job to provide children with the opportunities to grow and learn, through play, creating life long learners who are proactive in participating in life, and who are great problem solvers.
I have one son, Taine, who is in his 20's now. Time goes so fast. Enjoy them while they are little.
I am also a Life Coach that has previously worked with women to help them move on after divorce/break up/loss.
Being one of the centre owners is a big commitment, so when I do have spare time I like to enjoy it with my whanau and some of the many great friends I have made over the years. I love exploring this beautiful country of ours and experiencing the rich multi culturalism that Aotearoa has to offer.
Vicki - Qualified Teacher:
Vicki comes to us with experience in ECE teaching in Rotorua and Pukekohe.
Her family are all grown up and she is a proud Grandma.
Vicki has a beautiful singing voice, along with being able to play instruments - she used to be in a band in her earlier years and even has some of her beautiful songs recorded. Our tamariki really love it when she plays the ukulele at mat time.
Vicki also contributes with teaching our tamariki Te Reo so dont be surprised if they come home with new words in Maori.
Vicki's curiosity for how children learn and explore makes her a curious teacher, forever learning.
Vicki comes to us with experience in ECE teaching in Rotorua and Pukekohe.
Her family are all grown up and she is a proud Grandma.
Vicki has a beautiful singing voice, along with being able to play instruments - she used to be in a band in her earlier years and even has some of her beautiful songs recorded. Our tamariki really love it when she plays the ukulele at mat time.
Vicki also contributes with teaching our tamariki Te Reo so dont be surprised if they come home with new words in Maori.
Vicki's curiosity for how children learn and explore makes her a curious teacher, forever learning.
Moira - Unqualified Teacher:
Moira is originally from South Africa.
She lives locally with her husband Paul, son Cooper and has 2 step sons. Oh and don't forget her dog Angel and bunny called Joey.
She speaks Africans and English.
Moira began her journey as a teacher aide in primary school, where she found her passion for teaching young children.
She soon moved to working in ECE to gain her experience.
In here spare time, Moira spends quality time with her family. She also enjoys art and craft and the outdoors.
Having all boys in the family, Moira also gets involved in their hobby with remote controlled cars.
Her gentle, calming nature and passion for children, make her the perfect choice for Hillpark Preschool.
Moira is originally from South Africa.
She lives locally with her husband Paul, son Cooper and has 2 step sons. Oh and don't forget her dog Angel and bunny called Joey.
She speaks Africans and English.
Moira began her journey as a teacher aide in primary school, where she found her passion for teaching young children.
She soon moved to working in ECE to gain her experience.
In here spare time, Moira spends quality time with her family. She also enjoys art and craft and the outdoors.
Having all boys in the family, Moira also gets involved in their hobby with remote controlled cars.
Her gentle, calming nature and passion for children, make her the perfect choice for Hillpark Preschool.
|
Dipika - Unqualified Teacher:
Dipika is from India and holds her Master of Art degree and has completed her first year in ECE Education. She enjoys working with young children and supporting their growth through play. She lives in Pokeno with her husband and her son Avi. Dipika and her family are very involved in her temple out in West Auckland and she also enjoys exploring creative hobbies. She is a very good cook for her family and often brings Indian food in for us to try, expanding our knowledge and experience of her culture. |
Tania - Unqualified Teacher
Tania worked for Hillpark several years ago before she moved to
Australia to live. She missed us so much, she returned to NZ. We didn't hesitate to employ her again. She currently works part time.
She lives in Manurewa, also caring for her elderly father.
She speaks English and Samoan.
Tania's magical talent is drawing the children into everything from fun group games to peaceful, calming yoga like activities. Our tamariki enjoy her fun loving, caring nature.
When not at work, Tania enjoys spending time with her family and her partner.
Tania worked for Hillpark several years ago before she moved to
Australia to live. She missed us so much, she returned to NZ. We didn't hesitate to employ her again. She currently works part time.
She lives in Manurewa, also caring for her elderly father.
She speaks English and Samoan.
Tania's magical talent is drawing the children into everything from fun group games to peaceful, calming yoga like activities. Our tamariki enjoy her fun loving, caring nature.
When not at work, Tania enjoys spending time with her family and her partner.
