Our People

I have been an early childhood Kaiako for many years now. My journey of learning has seen me start off as a Student kaiako, Qualified Kaiako, Team leader and Manager.

I believe that all Tamariki grow and learn best when they are immersed in loving, caring, and supportive environments. Respectful, trusting relationships with Kaiako are imperative for them to establish a true sense of belonging and well-being.
Partnerships between whānau and the centre are key to maintaining a collaborative approach to each child’s individual needs, values, and identity.

All Tamariki deserve passionate Kaiako that are attuned to these individual needs and values. Kaiako role model positive relationships with each other and all Tamariki, which in turn provides further understanding and comfort for our youngest of learners.

I strive to provide learning environments that are well-resourced, inviting, and well organised so that learners have the ability and freedom to choose their own areas of interest at their own pace. It is important for Tamariki to gain an understanding of respecting our Taiao (environments).

Ngā mihi mahana
Colina

My teaching philosophy is based around respect for the child and building strong relationships.

I believe that children learn through using their imagination which helps them to make connections and understand and create working theories about the world around them.

I strongly believe in quality practices and care such as unhurried routines and respecting that each child has a voice, no matter their age. Every child is unique and learns in their own space and time.

Building strong and safe relationships creates trust between the teacher, child and whanau and provides a solid foundation for children's learning.

I really look forward to being a part of your child's learning experience!

I am married with three children, two boys and one daughter with four beautiful grandchildren.

I am a fully qualified teacher with thirty plus years of experience in teaching in early childhood centres around Wellington.

I believe children learn and grow individually and develop strongly at their own pace, they feel confident around environments that have love, patience, warmth and trust. I also believe that young children learn through play, their explorations, communication, respect, and warm relationships.

Our Tamariki are precious to their whānau and to us as kaiako as their second family. Close and safe attachments, and respectful relationships also means that we are offering them a good start in these early years.

I believe that as an early childhood Kaiako, it is important for me to be patient, passionate, loving, caring, have a great sense of humour, and mostly a big heart.

I absolutely love being a kaiako in Early Childhood and only plan to leave when my body says It has had enough.
Tafaoga Fauolo

It’s important to me that tamariki develop critical thinking skills and a sense of advocacy for themselves and others. My research interests reflect this commitment; exploring how children acquire culture, values, and practices in early education settings, particularly through the lenses of liberation theology and critical pedagogy. I believe that instilling these values from a young age sets the foundation for a more My research interests reflect this commitment; exploring how children acquire culture, values, and practices in early education settings, particularly through the lenses of liberation theology and critical pedagogy.

I believe that instilling these values from a young age sets the foundation for a more Outside of teaching, I have enjoyed studying a variety of other subjects, including English literature, art, and theology, which enriches my approach and informs my practice. I am always eager to share my passion for learning with others :-) I look forward to connecting with tamariki and whānau as we embark on this wonderful journey of learning together!