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Our People

Sheetal (CM) Bio (1)
Sheetal, Centre Manager

I hail all the way from beautiful Fiji Islands, currently living in West Auckland for over 16 years.

I have two beautiful children and a pet dog (Rottie). I love CAMPING and going on FISHING
trips with my family and friends.

My favorite food is Thai and I also love my authentic Indian food . I enjoy music, gardening and cooking on my quiet time.

I hold a Bachelors Degree in ECE, currently doing on line Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership.

I have over 12 years of Experience in ECE. I am very passionate about my profession and take great pride in what I like doing best, creating positive learning environment for our children.

I am looking forward to knowing you all!

"Life's aspirations come in the guise of CHILDREN."
Rabindranath Tagore!

My Life's Aspirations:

Being Kind & Humble

Become an inspiration for others

Love & respect towards everything

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Barbara Priestley.jpg
Barbara, Head Teacher, Pukeko Room

I have been working in Early Childhood Education for 15 years so have knowledge and experience that I have developed and gained over these years.   I also have a Primary qualification so I understand the skills children need to start school with confidence.  I believe children learn through active exploration and love seeing the look on their face as they work through challenges and gain success when accomplished, that look that says ‘I can do it!’

I am patient by nature and have a calm, quiet demeanour which makes me a great listener.  I strive to enable people to feel safe and secure with the knowledge that I will do my best to create an environment that welcomes them, respects them and care for them.

I have a Bachelor of Education (ECE) and a Post Graduate Diploma in Education (Primary)

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Rae
Rae, Teacher


Kia ora, my name is Rae Clark.

I have been privileged to teach at Lollipops Coatesville for over ten years. 

I hold a Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood Education and hold a current first aid certificate.

I am a proud grandmother of three boys so understand the importance of a solid foundation of respect, relationships and shared visions to get optimum educational outcomes for our children in a fun and nurturing environment.

I look forward to supporting your child in their preschool years.

Maggie
Maggie, Teacher

I came from Shenzhen, China, and have been in Auckland since 2018. I have been involved in the early childhood sector for almost 3 years, working with children from different age groups. I believe that a good Kaiako should treat themselves as a scaffold that effectively supports children’s holistic development by creating meaningful environments. I am honored to join our Lollipop Coatesville. And, I can not wait to see our beautiful tamariki and whānau soon! Let's get to know each other better!

Chante (2)
Chanté, Reliever

Hi, I’m Chanté ! I am from south Africa.

Afrikaans is my first language. I have been in New Zealand for 6 years now.

I became a teacher because I love showing children what they are truly capable of I love being creative and evoking creative qualities within each child.

I have been volunteering for Evolve for 5 years and now started as a first-time permanent teacher in the Kiwi room at Lollipops Coatesville.

I enjoy drawing, sewing and playing piano.

Bella (2)
Bella Yan, Teacher

Kia ora!

My name is Bella. Originally from China, I've made New Zealand my home for the last eight years. As a mom to two lively boys, ages 6 and 4, my parenting adventures led me to discover a new passion in my 30s—early childhood education. After a year of working in various ECE centers, I realized this was more than just a job; it's a place where we can truly make a difference in children’s lives. This realization spurred me to further my studies and become a professional in my field.

I'm currently balancing my role at Lollipops Birkenhead with my studies at New Zealand Tertiary College, aiming to deepen my understanding and skills in ECE. Having completed my first year, I'm excited to continue my journey and grow into a seasoned professional.

I believe every child is unique and learns best when they're engaged in fun, meaningful play. I am very happy to be a partner in their learning journey. I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of the Coatesville community, and can’t wait to meet everyone and learn together. Thank you.

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Lyra, Qualified Teacher - Pukeko Room

I have been a kaiako for four years and completed a
Bachelor of Teaching at Unitec, receiving their Senior
Scholar Award. I plan to continue my academic career
through professional development, staying up to date
with research, and intend to co-write my first academic
paper in 2025.

I am interested in raising confident, secure tamariki
that can grow into the leaders and visionaries of the
future. I believe in body autonomy, respect for
boundaries and acceptance of all peoples' identities.
As a teacher, I believe in giving tamariki real-life
practical experiences that help them understand the
world they live in - such as building kitset furniture,
putting up tents, cooking, painting fences and learning
to read maps. I also love to sing and dance and will
often have music playing in the background.
Early Childhood Education is my greatest passion. I
believe that tamariki are teachers in their own right
and that reciprocal relationships are the key to
success. Let's learn and grow together.

 

My Interests include:

  • I love learning abut language and
    culture and try to speak to
    children in their own language.
  • I am a passionate advocate for
    neurodivergent tamariki.
  • I love science and nature, and all
    kinds of animals, sea creatures
    and insects - my whenua is Te
    Henga on the West Coast.

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