Our People
Fiona Smith, Centre Manager
What inspired you to become an early childhood teacher?
I spent some time volunteering at Playcentre when I finished school and I realised that I really enjoyed spending time with children, getting to know them and helping them to grow and develop, so I decided to study to become an early childhood teacher.
moreGay Bollmann, Centre Cook
Hi, my name is Gay. At Little Lights I am the cook, the gardener, a reliever teacher, the health and safety officer and I also help to look after the animals. I’ve been here for 12 years! As the cook, I aim to provide our children with healthy home-cooked meals, based on the Heart Foundation guidelines. Lots of fruit and vegetables, and the carbohydrates, protein and healthy fat children need for energy.
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Jonathan, Teacher
Kia ora
I’m Jonathan or Matua Johnny.
What inspired me to become an ECE teacher?
I enjoyed the experience of dropping off and picking up my oldest daughter from her early education centre. It’s also in the blood with my mother being a Primary school teacher and my Grandmother being the first qualified kindergarten teacher in Rotorua.
How long have I worked in this sector?
I began my training in 2012 and have been working fulltime as a qualified teacher since 2015. In 2022 I also did a stint as an ECE lecturer on a 6 month fixed term contract.
What do I love most about what I do?
I enjoy seeing the joy and innocence in children’s faces.
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Laura King, Teacher
What inspired me to become an early childhood teacher was that I wanted a job that gave me a sense of purpose, where the knowledge that I gained could be passed on to future generations.
I have been working in this sector for just over two years.
What I love most about this job is that I can help children in their journey to learn, grow and develop to their best potential.
Three things that makes this centre special is their faith in God, the animal interactions and the great team of teachers that work here.
My favourite time of the year is summer, when the weather is sunny and hot and the time of year when water play activities are out.
My personal ECE philosophy is that I believe learning from and about nature is important for children, to help them to understand the world they live and play in. Along with learning important social skills for their future development, making friends and communicating with others. Lastly having a sense of belonging, where children feel comfortable, confident and happy as the grow and develop in a supportive environment.
In my free time I like going for walks, reading articles and watching movies.
Jessie Kim, Teacher
What inspired you to become an early childhood teacher?
When volunteering at a playgroup at church, I realized that I was enjoying the time with children a lot. It is lovey that you can build your career out of the ones you adore.
How long have you been working in this sector?
Around 4 years.
What do you love most about what you do?
Seeing first-hand children thrive and grow into happy, confident, well-balanced people through our education, teaching, and influence.
What are three things that make your centre special?
Our Christian faith-based philosophy and teaching
The spacious, natural outdoor environment with the opportunity to interact with animals.
The team who are supportive of each other and fun to work with
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