Staff Profiles

Glen Eru,  Centre Director, Hamilton

 
As a father of two children, Centre Director Glen Eru has a firsthand understanding of the concerns that parents have when it comes to selecting a quality childcare centre. Glen joined the team at Lollipops Hamilton in 2010 after a successful career as a constable with the New Zealand Police. His friendly and approachable personality is welcomed by the children and parents of the centre who value his positive attitude and diverse life experiences. Working with children and watching as they grow and learn is something that Glen considers to be a privilege and he looks forward to a long and successful career within a well-established and respected company. Glen is an avid motor racing fan and a keen fisherman and hunter. He also values the time spent with his family in the great outdoors, particularly on the snow and in the water.

 

 “I feel very fortunate to work with such a dedicated and child-focused team. Every staff member has a genuine love of working with children. The result is a thriving, positive centre where each child feels valued, secure, and happy.”

 

Marie Coombes, Centre Supervisor, Waikato Hospital

Centre Supervisor, Marie Coombes, joined the team at Lollipops Waikato Hospital in 2011 with a very valuable 30 years of experience within the early childhood education sector. Marie’s friendly face is always a welcome sight for the parents and children of Lollipops Waikato Hospital and her experience and passion have quickly become a great asset to the centre. As Centre Supervisor, Marie believes that communication with the staff, parents and whanau is vital to the happiness and learning success of the children. And as a mother and grandmother herself, she understands how important it is that every child feels happy, welcomed and cared for as they learn. Marie has a Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood Education enjoys spending her spare time reading, practising calligraphy and spending time with her three adult children and two grandchildren.
 
“I feel very passionate about my role in early childhood education. One of the things I love most is being able to interact with so many wonderful children, staff, parents and whanau every day.”

Jo Douch, Team Leader Over Two’s, Waikato Hospital

As a mother of three and grandmother of three, Jo Douch knows that early childhood education is one of the best investments that parents can make in their children’s education. Jo joined the team at Lollipops in 2007 and has been the Team Leader of the Under Twos’ area since late 2009. Her friendly, warm nature is welcomed by both the children and the parents of the centre. Jo holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and is dedicated to providing the best in care and education for the children of the Waikato Hospital centre.

“Contributing to the education and wellbeing of young children is a very rewarding experience. I feel very fortunate to be in a role where I can have a positive impact on the lives of our future generation.”