Our People
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Abashia Riddles, Centre Manager
What inspired you to pursue a career in early childhood?
I am passionate about working with children and being a part of their development. I also love the close working relationships that I build with the children, their families, and my colleagues. I’ve been working in this sector for 12 years now.
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Shahbeeha Khaanam, Team Leader
I joined the team at Lollipops Pukekohe in 2011. I hold a Bachelor of Education in ECE and is fully registered. I am the team leader in the Infant and toddler room (Kiwi).
I am passionate about working with young children and believe that as an educator we need to provide a fun, loving and stimulating environment where they learn and grow. I find working with children of all ages very enjoyable.
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Chanelle Ormsby, Teacher - Kiwi Room
I am of Cook island and Maori descend. Born and raised here in Aotearoa. I come from a family of 7 and reside in Pukekohe. I am a second year student and have always been passionate about working with children.
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Lauren Phillips, Teacher - Tui Room
My name is Lauren Phillips. I have been working at Lollipops Pukekohe for 15 years and I love working here. I love early childhood and I have a strong interest in art , creativity and empowering children to learn and express themselves through art. I have been lucky enough to travel lots and this made me a naturally curios person who loves to learn about the world around me and I love encouraging children’s natural curiosity. I enjoy learning alongside them.
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Mildred Mwene, Teacher
My name is Mildred Mwene. I am a fully registered teacher and hold a Degree in Bachelor of ECE teaching. I have been teaching since 2012 and I started working at Lollipops Pukekohe in January 2023. I am working in the under two’s.
My calling in teaching is at the heart desire to love, care , support, and advocate for the children to explore, discover and learn. All children are special in their own way. It does not matter where they come from.
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Rachel Desmond, Teacher
Kia ora, my name is Rachel Desmond and I am a qualified and provisional registered teacher working in the preschool room.
I found early childhood education by accident and found my passion with working with tamariki. I enjoy being part of our tamariki’s younger years and love helping them find their interests and build their knowledge through intentional teaching and play.
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Mariah Johanna Alcala, Teacher
Kia ora, I am Mariah Johanna Alcala. I hold Bachelor of Education (Special Education). I am a qualified and provisional registered teacher. I have thorough knowledge in different areas of teaching and have 5 years of experience in teaching students of various age groups.
I believe that having an enabling and supportive environment is important for effective learning to happen. I am well-prepared to make a difference in the lives of children by providing them with a safe and nurturing environment that encourages holistic growth and development.