Our People

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Mel Pierce, Centre Manager

Kia ora my name is Mel and I’m the Centre Manager here at Active Explorers Kaiapoi. I am passionate about Early childhood Education and strive to ensure the children, team and whanau are happy and supported with a sense of wellbeing and belonging. I have an open door policy at all times, and look forward to getting to know you and your whānau. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family, friends and dogs.

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Michelle, Explorers - Team Leader

Kia Ora my name is Michelle I am a fully registered ECE teacher with a Diploma of teaching. I am the team leader of the Explorers class. I have worked in Early childhood for over 20 years. Recently I have found a new found passion working with the nursery children 0-2 years. I am passionate about primary caregiving, and live locally here in Kaiapoi with my husband James and two children Connor and Kaitlyn. I am excited to be part of your child’s learning journey.

 

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Lisa, Adventurers - Teacher

Kia Ora I’m Lisa I am married to Brendan and have two children Jemma and Ethan. As a family we like to venture out locally having a picnic or bbq lunch, a walk or Kayak. I am originally from Hawkes Bay and grew up in Wairoa. I moved to Christchurch in 1998 to study Early Childhood Education graduating with my diploma in 2000. I enjoy working with all ages of tamariki and look forward to getting to know you and your family.

 

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Sarah, 2IC Discovers - Teacher

Tena koutou katoa  my name is Sarah and I’m the Team leader in the Adventurers room and have a degree in Early Childhood Education. My passion is supporting all learners to strive as they engage in fun filled experiences. I believe community and whānau support are important for the underlying learning of tamariki.Outside of pre-school I love spending time with my family and friends especially my wee girls Amelia and Sophia. 

 

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Brittany, Explorers- Teacher

Hi I’m Brittany and a teacher in the Adventurers room where I have found my belonging teaching 2-3yr olds. I am in my third year of my  bachelor in ECE and am so  passionate about the industry. I love to be with my     family outside of Active Explorers including my wee boy  Carter and daughter Kiera who are my world and the reason why I’m a teacher today.

 

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Sophia, Adventurers - Teacher

Tena Koutou Katoa

My name is Sophia, I am a qualified Early childhood   educator. My interest and love for young children has encouraged me to pursue a career as an Early Childhood Teacher in New Zealand. I enjoy planning and              implementing learning experiences, I believe each child is a special individual  who brings something unique. Therefore as a teacher I have this wonderful opportunity to support the children to reach their full potential.

 

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Bonnie , Adventurerers - Team Leader

Hello, my name is Bonnie. 

I am very excited to begin my next journey and adventure at Active Explorers- Kaiapoi and make some great memories at this centre.  

I completed my Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) degree in 2012 and have been teaching ever since.

 

I value meaningful relationships with whanau, children and staff. I am passionate about children taking responsibility and leadership within their plat/ learning and allowing them the opportunity to make their own choices, while I support them in their growth and development.

I believe independence is an important aspect and I encourage and support children’s independence.  I find teaching rewarding and I enjoy watching children grow and develop along with their own unique personalities. 

In my spare time, I enjoy road trips, camping, adventures, art and craft, shopping, and spending time with my friends, family and my two fur babies named Toysan and Nisota. 

I look forward to meeting you and your whanau. 

 

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Julia, Discoverers - Teacher

Kia ora, my name is Julia. I joined the amazing teaching team here at Active Explorers in 2019 I received my Diploma in Early Childhood Education in 2012. As a teacher my passion is supporting children's interests and helping them recognise their own strengths. I love being involved in the children's learning and I look forward to seeing them develop and grow throughout their time with us.