Staff Profiles

Carla Ornelas, Centre Manager, Takapuna

Of Portugese ethnicity, Carla was born in Cape Town, South Africa and is fluent in Portuguese, Afrikaans and French.
Because Carla is skilled at learning new languages, she is always happy to spend time with parents learning important words and phrases that will help children settle and enjoy a good sense of belonging. Carla holds a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education, a Bachelor of Arts, and a Higher Diploma in Education (Post-graduate Primary), and is also a fully registered teacher. As a parent of three children, Carla has a good understanding of parent’s expectations, aspirations, concerns and needs. Her experiences as a parent, teacher and an immigrant to New Zealand combine to provide the centre with valuable skills that are an immense asset to its children, parents, and staff.

“I enjoy my job tremendously. It gives me the opportunity to contribute to children’s lives and be part of a positive environment that fosters children’s wellbeing and education. I find it very rewarding to work with a team of teachers that take pride in their roles and are dedicated to what they do.”

Virginia Arocena, Centre Supervisor, Takapuna

Centre Supervisor, Virginia Arocena joined the team at Lollipops Takapuna in 2007. Prior to working within the early childhood sector, Virginia spent 27 years as a university professor and she holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education,
a Doctorate of Philosophy in Development Communication, and a Bachelor of Home Economics Education. With a solid background in communications and education, Virginia provides the parents, staff, and children of the centre with valuable skills and experience. She aims to continue her professional development within the early childhood education sector and aspires to become a Centre Manager when the opportunity arises.

“I thoroughly enjoy the variety that working with children provides, every day brings something new! I feel very proud to be working within a centre that provides so many wonderful opportunities and experiences for the children who use it.”