Rachel – Centre Manager
Kia Ora, nihao, hello everyone, my name is Rachel, a New Zealand registered early childhood teacher. I am the centre manager of apples. I started teaching from 2001, and my experience of teaching cover children aged from birth to high school. As the centre manager, my primary focus is on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where children feel safe, secure, and happy. I believe that when children feel comfortable and supported, they are more likely to engage in learning and exploration.
I look forward to working with each of you and learning more about your children and families as we embark on this journey together.
Josie – Head Teacher
My name is Josie. I have been a teacher for over 10 years, completing a Bachelor of Education in 2014 and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2019. I am proud to be a teacher in New Zealand, where we have the opportunity to provide one of the most learning inclusive curriculums for our tamariki. As a teacher and a parent I acknowledge all children to be capable and confident learners, valuing my role in nurturing their physical and emotional wellbeing.
Aimee
My name is Aimee, I am Scottish Kiwi. I have been in the teaching field for 9 years and in 2022 I completed my Bachelor of Teaching degree in early childhood education. I believe that providing a nurturing and safe space for our Tamariki is vital for their overall learning and development when explore their learning environment. I believe that Tamariki learns through play and that the environment is their third teacher.
Faith
Kia Ora! Apa khabar! Ni Hao! My name is Faith, I’m from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education). I’m passionate about children as I believe they are our future. Furthermore, in my teaching philosophy, I value respect and trusting relationships with children and parents/whānau. Respect plays a huge role in my teaching as I do view children as competent individuals, capable of leading their own play.
Lucy
Malo e Lelei and hello, my name is Lucy. My craft as a dedicated, kind-hearted Kaiako specializing in nurturing children aged 0 to 5. My journey is guided by a profound belief in the power of relationships, understanding that they form the bedrock of a child’s growth and development, my teaching philosophy is to create an empowered environment where allows children and families feel embraced and encouraged.
Ana
Malo e Lelei, hello and 你好, I am Ana. As an experienced early childhood teacher with over years of teaching experience from ages 0 to 5, I bring a rich blend of cultural diversity and pedagogical expertise to the centre. Fluent in English, Tongan and Mandarin, I prioritize building meaningful relationship with children, families and whanau., valuing each interaction as a learning opportunity.
Marjorie
Kumusta. Kia Ora everyone! I am originally from Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. I began my career in early childhood education in 2021 and graduated with a Diploma in Teaching. I believe that every child is unique and must have a stimulating environment where they can grow as competent and confident individuals. I do my best every day to provide them with meaningful learning opportunities that can help them reach their full potential.
Nikita
Kia Ora, नमस्ते, everyone, My name is Nikita, I am from Punjab, India. I consider myself fortunate to have called New Zealand home for the past two years. I am studying Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education at NZTC. I have a strong passion for working with young children because I believe that every child is unique and brings distinct and valuable skills with them. I always aim to create a positive, supportive and nurturing environment that can influence the minds and hearts of tamariki and to spark their curiosity and creativity. I acknowledge the importance of whānau in child’s development and am always ready to communicate with them to fulfill their aspirations.
Larissa
Hi, my name is Larissa. I grew up in Malaysia. I have been in New Zealand for 4 years and I fall in love with the NZ culture during my time as a student. I have a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. I believe that providing a loving, caring and nurturing space for children is vital for their developmental growth and will also increase their interest in learning. I hope I am able to be an encouraging and supporting educator in their daily learning here.
Winnie
Kia Ora/你好/こんにちは！My name is Winnie, and I am a registered ECE teacher. I consider that early childhood is a time of profound importance for everyone growing up. I uphold my teaching philosophy of respectful interactions with infants and toddlers. I believe through learning experience, trailing errors, and innovative thinking, our tamariki will be able to comprehend the world and different concepts. I also see myself as a cultural facilitator and I am respectful for all the different identities, languages, and cultures.
Ankita
Kia Ora, Namaste everyone. My name is Ankita, and I am from Himachal Pradesh, India. I have been in New Zealand for the past seven years, and I adore the beauty of this country. Having a background in Psychology and Special education, I possess a strong enthusiasm for engaging with children. As a mother of two children, I feel every child deserves to be loved and supported. As an early childhood teacher, my aim is to create a nurturing environment in which children feel safe to explore and are encouraged to express themselves freely.
Tee
Kia ora, Malo-E-Lelei, my name is Temaleti-Paea-I-Piangil or Tee. I was born here in New Zealand, but my parents hail from the friendly islands of Tonga. I am currently studying towards a BA degree, majoring in Educational Psychology. Children are my passion; I have been working alongside young children, it has been nothing but fun and a great learning experience. My personal philosophy is centred around nurturing, caring, and providing a safe environment for the tamariki.
Melody
Kia ora! My name is Melody and I am graduated with a Bachelor in Teaching (ECE)~ My passion is music and working with young children. I believe that with unconditional love and patience, we can give children the best opportunities to learn about themselves and the world. I am friendly and approachable, with both children and adults! I hope to build trusting relationships that allows the children to flourish~
Mhnaz
Hello, salam, my name is Mhnaz Aoud. I have great experience working in ECE supporting children across all age groups to grow and thrive in a caring environment. I speak English, Kurdish, Arabic and Persian which helps me understand families of diverse backgrounds. I am passionate about creating engaging activities sparking curiosity in children, and I love seeing them grow their independence. Caring for children brings me great joy, and I am committed to providing a safe, loving, and supportive space for every child.
Apples childcare & learning centre 