Back to Lollipops site Waiwhetu
Contact Book a Tour

Our People

Sasha.jpg
Sasha Stewart, Centre Manager

What motivated you to pursue a career in ECE?

I am inspired to work in early childhood to make a difference in children’s lives, I have been in the sector for 22 years. I love leading and challenging my team to be the best they can to support families and give children the best start to their education.

How do you think children learn best?

I believe children learn through play and their interests. We as teachers should embrace this and scaffold their learning.

What do you love most about your centre?

We focus on warm relationships with children and their whanau, we are genuine, loving and authentic. My favourite part of the year is in summer when we enjoy lots of waterplay and time outside having fun in the sun.

Where can we find you when you are not at work?

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family and travelling to exciting destinations.

more
Amy.jpg
Amy Mitchell-King, Assistant Manager

Kia Ora, my name is Amy and I am the assistant manager at Lollipops Waiwhetu. I support Sasha to run the centre and teach in the Tui and Kakapo room.  

I have been teaching since 2004 and have held a variety of roles including Head Teacher and worked with infants, toddlers and young children. I am excited to be working at this amazing centre that has plenty of space and opportunities for children to explore. I love working positively with all children and teachers.

In my spare time I love being with my two boys, Joshua and Alexander and wife Rochelle. We enjoy getting outside and spending time with our extended family. I am passionate about early childhood education and love learning about what is happening in the sector. I hope to finish postgraduate study related to education to add to my knowledge base.

I look forward to meeting you and your child and welcoming you to our Lollipops whanau.

sarah.jpg
Sarah Jamison, Team Leader Infants and Toddlers

BEd Teaching (ECE) - Full Registration

First aid certificate

Kia Ora, my name is Sarah. I have been working in Early Childhood for the past 11 years, with my main passion and experience being with the infants and toddlers. I have worked in various centres, enjoying the challenges and diversity, and developing my passion and knowledge for teaching further.

I have just recently spent the past two years working as a nanny and a teacher in London, and through this have gained a wealth of experience, as well as realising how lucky both teachers and children are to be educated in New Zealand.

When I am not at work, I love getting outdoors, photography, doing anything crafty and spending time with my friends and family.

elizabeth.jpg
Elizabeth Brunel, Teacher

Bed Tch (ECE) – Full Registration

First Aid Certificate

Talofa, Kia ora, Hi my name is Liz and I am a teacher at Lollipops Waiwhetu. I studied at Victoria University, gaining my Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood in 2012. I enjoy performing arts – dance, music and being creative. I have grown up in Wainuiomata and love getting out and exploring the community and participating in outdoor adventures.

As a teacher, I previously spent my time teaching infants and toddlers and just recently are working as a Team Leader with Preschool child. I believe family values and working with families is important.  I am passionate about making learning fun for children, and ensuring they get the most out of their education and care by expanding on their interests and supporting them in their journey.