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OUR PEOPLE

At Yarra Ranges Kindergartens, we believe that all children carry unseen within them the person they will become. In order to develop their physical, intellectual, and social abilities to the fullest, they must have freedom—freedom to be achieved through order and self-discipline.

We provide a safe, nurturing environment where children learn, grow and thrive. Our curriculum prepares children for primary school and beyond by developing important academic, social and emotional skills. Our teachers help each child discover a fascinating world of learning and play.

“Play is the answer to how anything new comes about.” – Jean Piaget

Our diverse and dedicated staff hold degrees & diplomas in a myriad of areas, including Early Childhood Education, the arts and sciences, and have all fulfilled preschool educational requirements. 

YRKI BOARD

Chairperson of YRKI Board

Matt Dailey
Secretary of YRKI Board

Lisa Roberts
Treasurer of YRKI Board

Richard Williams
Carolyn Smart
General Member of YRKI Board

Carolyn Smart
General Member of YRKI Board

Geoff Abbott

Chairperson of YRKI Board

Matt Dailey

BBus (Mgt) GAICD

Matt has a unique and broad background with experience and transferable skills across multiple sectors. Matt currently works in the research sector as the Chief Operations Officer of a National Research Infrastructure organisation.  Prior to working in the research sector Matt has worked in a variety of leadership roles across Tertiary Education, Retail and Manufacturing.  He has broad experience in managing and leading change with a strong focus on people. He has strong stakeholder management and relationship skills, and has experience in advocacy both at government and non-government levels. Matt brings a wealth of experience to YRKI across the areas of governance, strategy and leadership.

Secretary of YRKI Board

Lisa Roberts

Lisa is a graduate member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has been working in governance roles in the Victorian local government sector for almost 20 years. She is passionate about best practice governance and assisting any one she works with to understand why it is essential and how it can assist any organisation to be more functional and efficient. She believes she can convert anyone who thinks that governance is just about compliance and only puts up roadblocks to efficiency and describes herself as a Governance nerd. Lisa lives in the Dandenong Ranges and is also a Director of The Wilderness Society Ltd (Aust).

Treasurer of YRKI Board

Richard Williams

Richard is the Vic/Tas/S.A State Sales Manager for PPG Architectural Coatings.  PPG is a 135 year old organisation who develops and delivers paint, coatings and specialised materials to over 70 countries worldwide.  Leading brands include Taubmans, White Knight, Bristol, Armawall, and Flood.

Having lived in the outer Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne for over 15 years and when approached Richard thought this would be an exciting way to give back to the local community. He has over 25 years’ experience in both large and small retail organisations, running businesses with annual turnovers of over $50m and 200 Staff. As a father of two Richard believes that the introduction of all children to education plays a vital role in their development and this begins with Early learning opportunities like YRKI.  As well as being a member of the board Richard is also the Chairman of the YRKI Finance Committee.

Carolyn Smart

General Member of YRKI Board

Carolyn Smart

Carolyn Smart is currently the Quality and Compliance Manager for Journey Early Learning.
She has worked extensively in the Early Childhood sector for the past 32 years, holding a variety of roles in both public and private organisations.
Over the years she has also been a volunteer on Kindergarten committee’s and School councils.
This is her first year with YVKI and has been brought onto the board for her sector specific knowledge and experience

General Member of YRKI Board

Geoff Abbott

Geoff consults and coaches companies to improve performance, to grow people and teams, and to form strategies to succeed. He has achieved as a senior executive in manufacturing, telecommunications, banking, heavy engineering, Public Sector, and Retail.

He has lived the business cycles of growth, steady state, and downsizing; and works to ensure clarity, alignment, focus, priorities, accountability, and value creation.

Geoff is married and enjoys his family life – with a daughter who lives in the USA (thank you Skype!) and a son (and 3 young grandchildren) in Melbourne.

Geoff is delighted to join the Board of YRKI.

ADMINISTRATION

Interim CEO CFO/CMO

Vik Naidu
Operations Manager

Marta Pegoiani
Accounts Receivable

Rhonda Scoble
Payroll and Enrolments

Kaye Smith
Accounts Payable

Manmit Hayer
Administration

Lisa Rich

Silvana Linton

Interim CEO CFO/CMO

Vik Naidu

An accomplished Finance & Operations professional, Vik has the ability to lead diverse teams of professionals. He has sound technical and business qualifications with a track record of 30 years hands-on experience in finance, business management, advertising, marketing and strategic planning. As CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi Middle East he successfully managed 7 countries delivering peak performance year on year and positioning it as the Centre of Excellence by winning the Agency of the Year Award for the region. With global experience encompassing countries including Singapore, UK, Middle East and Levant, Vik has the proven ability to successfully analyse an organisation’s critical business requirements and create innovative solutions. 

Operations Manager

Marta Pegoiani

Accounts Receivable

Rhonda Scoble

After being a stay at home mum for 10 years I am thrilled to now be employed by Yarra Ranges Kindergartens. Both my children attended Launching Place Preschool and during that time I was on the Parent Committee as Secretary, handling Scholastic Book orders and Cashier (not all at the same time).  My working background includes being a Demand Analyst, Personal Assistant & Customer Service.  My role as Administration Assistant is part time and I began assisting with a variety of tasks involved in the running of the cluster. I have since added Accounts Receivable and Credit Control to my role.

Payroll and Enrolments

Kaye Smith

Accounts Payable

Manmit Hayer

Administration

Lisa Rich

I am a mum of two boys who have both attended Fernhill preschool. My background prior to children was in Marketing and Administration for large corporations. In July 2018 I took on a contract role for YRKI assisting with enrolments. I am now permanent part time and my role has shifted to focus on assisting staff and parent advisory groups with all things fundraising, marketing, administration and anything else required.

Silvana Linton

BELGRAVE

Teacher

Laura Warland
Educator

Janet Muhle

Teacher

Laura Warland

I have been working with children since 2003. I have a Bachelor of Teaching (birth to five years) and completed this after working my way through the Certificate III and Diploma qualifications; I wanted to keep building on the skills I was using every day with the group I was working alongside. I have taught in infant, toddler and pre-kinder rooms before working in a kinder setting. I enjoy building professional knowledge in better understanding and directing children’s behaviour, as well as extending my own ideas to create unique and fun sensory, art and craft experiences (that often get a bit messy!). I also have a passion for animal welfare and volunteer at animal rescues when time permits.

Educator

Janet Muhle

Janet has been at Belgrave Preschool since 2007. Janet lives locally and assists with the 4 year old group each week.

CHIRNSIDE PARK

Teacher

Kathy Wilton
Teacher

Rita Russell
Educator

Kylie Birthisel
Educator

Carolyn Bell

Teacher

Kathy Wilton

Kathy has been with Chirnside Park since 2006 and currently teaches 4/5yo groups. She has many years’ experience as an early childhood educator. Her qualifications include: Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood) and Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) along with First Aid, Asthma, Allergy and Anaphylaxis management and Epipen® administration training. Kathy is the mother of two boys.

Teacher

Rita Russell

Rita has joined Chirnside Park Preschool in 2019 and currently teaches one session with 4/5 yo groups and teaches both 3-year-old groups. She has several years’ experience as an early childhood educator. Her qualifications include: Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) along with First Aid, Asthma, Allergy and Anaphylaxis management and Epipen® administration training. She has a special interest in supporting children and families with diverse needs so that all children feel welcome and she loves providing open-ended, creative play experiences where children can express their ideas and extend their knowledge. Rita has 2 children who have both attended this preschool.

Educator

Kylie Birthisel

Kylie joined the staff in 2017, coming with many years experience working with both Preschool and Primary age children. She assists with 4 sessions of the 4/5 yr Old Group. Kylie holds a Diploma of Children’s services (ECEC) and Certificate 4 in Children’s services (OSHC). She also has First Aid, Asthma management, Allergy, Anaphylaxis and Epipen Administration training. Kylie is the mother of three children.​

As well as holding current industry registrations and security checks, all staff at Chirnside Park Preschool undertake additional training every year to keep up-to-date with the latest developmental and educational concepts and ideas.

Educator

Carolyn Bell

COLCHESTER PARK

Teacher

Amanda Mountain
Teacher

Linda Webster
Educator

Kerrie Scott
Educator

Sharon Hutchison

Teacher

Amanda Mountain

Amanda joined the team in 2018.  She has had 10 years experience as a Early Childhood Teacher in a range of different settings.  Amanda has worked with families from Culturally and Linguistically diverse backgrounds for 4 years in both Noble Park and Glen Waverley. 

She has a passion for working with families and communities to provide an enriching and diverse experience for children. 

Amanda has two children of her own and was inspired to become a preschool teacher after they attended kindergarten many years ago.  She and her boys love the beach and are active Lifeguards at Edithvale Life Saving Club. 

Teacher

Linda Webster

I have been part of the Colchester Park Preschool teaching team as the Three Year Old Teacher, since 2010. With more than 15 years experience in the Early Childhood sector, I am passionate about the importance of quality Early Childhood experiences. My planning and programs recognise and celebrate children’s strengths and interests, allowing plenty of time for children to learn through play and exploration. I am also committed to fostering strong partnerships with families and recognise that families play a crucial role in children’s education. I also have a passion for Music, and have also worked as a Music specialist in schools and many Early Childhood settings. I share my love of music with the 3’sa through a variety of music and movement experiences which are a part of every kinder session.

Educator

Kerrie Scott

I have my Diploma of Early Childhood Education and my Certificate III. I have worked in the Early Childhood industry since 1991, beginning in Child Care in 1991, then moved to Pre Schools in 2001.

I am married with three children and live in the beautiful Yarra Valley. I am extremely lucky to have a hobby farm, on 47 acres, which includes horses, miniature donkeys, cats, dogs and a goat.

I love to share my love of animals with the children. I share photos, stories and even bring in my beautiful ragdoll kittens, from time to time.

I strongly believe that children learn through play. Children take an active role in their learning and develop through their play and interests. I have a strong passion for the industry and love that each day is different. I love my job, watching the children learn and develop over the kinder year. I pride myself on building strong relationships with families and welcoming them back again, with siblings, or just to visit. I feel lucky I get to spend the day with your beautiful children, watching them grow and learn.

Educator

Sharon Hutchison

have my Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. I have worked in the Early Childhood industry since 2018, beginning in Childcare, then moved to Preschools in 2020.

I am passionate about sustainability and implementing sustainable practices in the Preschool, as well as teaching the children how to be sustainable.

I am married with two children and I am extremely passionate about teaching them the benefits of living an active and healthy lifestyle. My family is actively Involved in local community sporting clubs and I am looking forwards to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle within our Preschool.

I understand that the first 5 years of a child’s life is a vital period in their learning and development. I believe every child should have the best start in life and it is an absolute pleasure for me to help your children to learn and grown with confidence.

COLDSTREAM

Teacher

Josie Waddingham
Educator

Mandy Harrop
Educator

Trina Settle

Teacher

Josie Waddingham

A graduate from the University of Melbourne, prior to becoming a teacher I was a veterinary nurse for 20+ years. I live at Chum Creek with my husband Andrew, son Tim and daughter Lucy with a menagerie of animals. I train horses using natural horsemanship methods and have a love of chickens. I enjoy hiking, kayaking, horse riding, cycling and spending time at the beach.

My teaching beliefs include:

  • Children have greater outcomes when they witness positive relationships between their family and educators, therefore I work on developing strong and open partnerships with families.
  • Early childhood is precious and therefore should be treasured and not merely a steppingstone to starting school.
  • It is important to help children develop dispositions for learning such as curiosity, perseverance and creativity as well as skills including problem solving, investigation & inquiry.
  • Children need open-ended materials and sufficient time to explore their environment and make sense of the world around them.
  • I’m passionate about developing children’s personal resilience, belief in their own ability and social competence.
  • Outdoor play is paramount when it comes to developing the child holistically and this is reflected in their ability to access the outdoor environment.
  • Children’s self-worth is fragile and should be treated as such.

Educator

Mandy Harrop

Starting in childcare in 1988, I have been an educator in the local community. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do since leaving school. From childcare, I moved on to Family Day Care whilst raising my family and I have been with Yarra Ranges Kindergartens since 2004, starting at Warburton Preschool and moving on to Launching Place Preschool. The educator’s job is an important one and I consider it to be the most rewarding job I have held.

I really am one of the few people who can attest to genuinely loving my job watching the children and their families learn, develop and grow. This, to me, is satisfying, fun and fulfilling. Each of these children and their families are unique and diverse, which helps to create a vibrant learning environment for all of us, not just the children. It is also rewarding for me when I rekindle relationships with parents I previously had the pleasure of teaching when they were young as they enrol their own children at kinder.

Having lived and worked in the Upper Yarra region all my life, I love bumping into families out of work and responding to a little voice, (sometimes a much older voice!), “Hi Mandy!”; that’s so nice. Kinders have come a long way in regards to educating children, preparing them for school and giving them skills to help further develop each child. Kinder is fun, dynamic and rewarding for the children and their families; it’s all that for me too, so thank you for allowing me to play a small part in your child’s education.

Educator

Trina Settle

FERNHILL

Teacher

Elisa Forrest
Educator

Belinda Giblett
Educator

Kirrily Wyatt
Educator

Mandy Harrop

Georgia Bartholomeusz

Emma Dissanayake

Teacher

Elisa Forrest

I am an Early Years Teacher with over 10 years’ experience working in Early Childhood. I have a background in arts, theatre and music and love educational philosophies from Walker Learning, Reggio Emila and Steiner. I enjoy working in my local community building partnerships with families, teachers and other professionals to continually learn and grow. I believe that all children should be valued and respected in everyday learning practices to build their confidence and wellbeing for future decision making, risk taking and self -expression. Every child comes from a family background that connects them to their culture, understanding and knowledge of themselves and others. Our program offers the opportunity for all children to learn as individuals and build upon those important social and emotional skills, empowerment to make own decisions, problem-solve on own or with others, develop use of appropriate language to express themselves and learn more about the world around them. I believe all young children regardless of their age and stage should have an opportunity to play, learn and develop with family and professional support to be the best that they can be in life.

Educator

Belinda Giblett

I’ve been at Fernhill Preschool since 2012, however I have been actively involved in the preschool since 2010 through my own children’s kindergarten experiences. My passions lie with music, drama, literature and observing the children making spontaneous discoveries through exploring the world around them. I have worked in Children’s Services for the past 22 years, in a variety of settings. I look forward to getting to know you, your family and your child through educating and guiding their first step on their educational ladder.

Educator

Kirrily Wyatt

Educator

Mandy Harrop

Starting in childcare in 1988, I have been an educator in the local community. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do since leaving school. From childcare, I moved on to Family Day Care whilst raising my family and I have been with Yarra Ranges Kindergartens since 2004, starting at Warburton Preschool and moving on to Launching Place Preschool. The educator’s job is an important one and I consider it to be the most rewarding job I have held.

I really am one of the few people who can attest to genuinely loving my job watching the children and their families learn, develop and grow. This, to me, is satisfying, fun and fulfilling. Each of these children and their families are unique and diverse, which helps to create a vibrant learning environment for all of us, not just the children. It is also rewarding for me when I rekindle relationships with parents I previously had the pleasure of teaching when they were young as they enrol their own children at kinder.

Having lived and worked in the Upper Yarra region all my life, I love bumping into families out of work and responding to a little voice, (sometimes a much older voice!), “Hi Mandy!”; that’s so nice. Kinders have come a long way in regards to educating children, preparing them for school and giving them skills to help further develop each child. Kinder is fun, dynamic and rewarding for the children and their families; it’s all that for me too, so thank you for allowing me to play a small part in your child’s education.

Georgia Bartholomeusz

Emma Dissanayake

HANSEN PARK

Teacher

Debra Anil
Teacher

Brianna Smith
Educator

Leonie Higginbotham
Educator

Margherita Rickard

Teacher

Debra Anil

Teacher

Brianna Smith

Educator

Leonie Higginbotham

Educator

Margherita Rickard

JOY AVENUE

Teacher

Melissa Rose
Teacher

Salina Collins
Educator

Lewise Scash
Educator

Kristie Campbell
Educator

Liz Szcsesny
Educator

Judy Moore

Georgia Bartholomeusz

Beck Murray

Teacher

Melissa Rose

I qualified as a teacher in 1993 and hold a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education). I have experience in a range of early childhood settings across both the 3yo and 4-5yo age groups. I had a 15 year teaching break working for a federal government department, during which time I got married and started a family. I have two children; Sienna and Aidan.

When Sienna started kindergarten, I realised how much I had missed teaching and in 2011 began working as a relief teacher at a number of preschools throughout the eastern suburbs. I was lucky enough to join the Yarra Ranges Kindergartens Inc. family in 2012 as the 3/4yo teacher at Woori Yallock and Launching Place Preschools. In 2013, I was appointed as the 4/5yo teacher at Warburton. I am also qualified in First Aid, Asthma, Allergy and Anaphylaxis management and Epipen® administration. I have a real passion for working with children and watching them grow and learn. I enjoy both the challenge and great rewards teaching brings.  

Teacher

Salina Collins

Educator

Lewise Scash

Educator

Kristie Campbell

Educator

Liz Szcsesny

Educator

Judy Moore

Georgia Bartholomeusz

Beck Murray

LANCASTER

Teacher

Lauren Spratt
Educator

Kerrie Gould
Nicole McAleer

Nicole McAleer

Teacher

Lauren Spratt

I have been teaching preschool for over 15 years in the Yarra Ranges, Maroondah and Knox areas and am thrilled to be working in such a high quality setting as Lancaster Preschool. I am passionate about play-based learning and using the children’s interests to create opportunities for engagement, learning and creativity. I believe children learn best when the have close bonds with their educators and peers and when we meet children where they are at, extending their ideas and natural inclinations. I love to see children grow in their self-confidence and autonomy throughout the year, in fact my aim for the end of the kinder year is to be of very little use to the children, except to help source their materials and share a laugh together, as their independence and thinking is so well-developed. I am a huge fan of the Walker Learning Approach, that we use at Lancaster, so much so that my children attend a primary school using the same pedagogy. Children will naturally do the things they need to for developing life skills (climb, dig, paint, act, sing, spin, splash, explore, create) – it is up to us as adults to support and encourage these types of play to form the basis for further learning and curiousity.
When I’m not teaching at Lancaster, I like spending time with my family, going caravaning, reading books, thrashing my sons at Just Dance and eating chocolate 🙂

Educator

Kerrie Gould

My name is Kerrie and I am a mum to two children, Jacob and Jessica. They both attended Lancaster Preschool for 3 and 4 year old kinder in 2010 to 2012 and are now attending St Peter Julian Eymard Primary School. We live within walking distance of the kinder, having moved to Mooroolbark in 2010, with our two dogs and our parrot. I have worked with children in many roles over the years including working with children with special needs in homes and at various schools, as a Nanny and as a teacher’s assistant at a technical school.

As a family we enjoy 4-wheel driving, camping and travelling. During the school term our lives revolve around the after school activities of dancing, basketball, and swimming. My kids and I are passionate AFL supporters (my husband says he is an AFL widow come winter!). We are at almost every St. Kilda game in Melbourne and usually one or two interstate games as well. Yes we really love our football! This position is a dream come true for me and I truly consider it an absolute privilege to have been chosen to be a part of your children’s lives and education.

Nicole McAleer

Nicole McAleer

LAUNCHING PLACE

Teacher

Cath Wood
Teacher

Rita Russell
Educator

Kim Trott
Educator

Thea Brazier
Educator

Liz Szcsesny

Teacher

Cath Wood

I am a 4 year trained, early childhood teacher and have been teaching kinder aged children for over 40 years in 3 different states. I have lived in the Valley since moving to Victoria in 1999 and have been at Launching Place Preschool since 2002. I presently teach the 4/5yo groups and act as the Educational Leader and Nominated Supervisor at the preschool.
I have a passion for embracing the individuality of each child and supporting young children to achieve their potential in all areas of development and develop skills needed for school and for life. Through play-based learning, my teaching encourages children to develop strong personal and social skills and to follow their learning interests as they develop knowledge about themselves, their community and the wider world. I am also committed to developing positive partnerships with families since they are the children’s first teachers. I believe in offering a rich environment with a wide variety of indoor and outdoor experiences that draw on the interests and strengths of the children, their families and the community.
My personal passions include sustainability and the environment, literacy and social justice and these are elements you will see reflected the programs offered at kinder. I am also an Exemplary Level teacher and use my wealth of knowledge and experience to provide support to other early childhood educators through mentoring programs and education networks.

Teacher

Rita Russell

Rita has joined Chirnside Park Preschool in 2019 and currently teaches one session with 4/5 yo groups and teaches both 3-year-old groups. She has several years’ experience as an early childhood educator. Her qualifications include: Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) along with First Aid, Asthma, Allergy and Anaphylaxis management and Epipen® administration training. She has a special interest in supporting children and families with diverse needs so that all children feel welcome and she loves providing open-ended, creative play experiences where children can express their ideas and extend their knowledge. Rita has 2 children who have both attended this preschool.

Educator

Kim Trott

I have been involved in early childhood education for 17 years in a variety of roles, starting as a volunteer at the kinder my girls attended. I have a Certificate 3 in early childhood and my first paid positions were an additional assistant supporting children with additional needs. I have been working for Yarra Ranges kinders since 2010 when I joined the staff at Belgrave Preschool and have been working at Launch since 2017, first as an additional assistant and then as an educator in both 3 and 4-year-old groups.

Educator

Thea Brazier

I am a diploma-trained educator and have been working as an early childhood educator since 2007. I began working at Launching Place kinder in 2018 and love working as a team member in a kinder setting. I have a passion for children and everything they are about. I particularly enjoy nurturing a child’s individualism, supporting them to learn at their own pace and providing a safe learning environment. I find it is rewarding to help with a child’s development and growth as a whole from the beginning of the kindergarten journey to the start of their school years.

Educator

Liz Szcsesny

MILLGROVE

Teacher

Jan Amos
Renee Freund
Educator

Renee Freund

Teacher

Jan Amos

I have worked in Early Childhood Education settings for over twenty years and have tutored in Early Childhood Education at the Deakin University’s Burwood campus.    Prior to my early year’s career, I spent many years working in finance and administration both in the U.K. and here in Australia.  I live in Chum Creek with my husband Rob, our son Calvin who is 24 and a physiotherapist, our  two very spoilt dogs Willow and Dougal and a couple of chickens!  My daughter, Laura (26) is also in the field of Early Childhood Education and is currently studying her teaching degree with Swinburne University.

In 2012 I completed my four year Early Childhood Education Degree (honours) from Deakin University. I also hold a Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Children’s Services, and Advanced Diploma in Community Sector Management, Cert IV in Workplace Training and Assessment as well as emergency first aid certificates.  Whilst undertaking my honours degree I wrote a thesis on the importance of outdoor play. My passion for our natural environment, its inhabitants, sustainability and the endless and unique possibilities that can be found in the outdoors for children’s learning and development continues to be a strong influence on my implementation of curriculum today.

My teaching beliefs also include:

  • Respecting each child is unique and their learning journey will be individual but that all children need a safe, caring and stimulating environment in which to grow and develop emotionally, socially, intellectually and physically.
  • Respecting cultural and family diversity with a genuine desire to form strong collaborative partnerships with families and the local community.
  • Supporting children’s natural ability to learn through play.  Engaging children in different forms of positive, playful experiences both indoors and outside to provide children with the opportunity to reach their own individual full potential.
  • Providing open-ended and natural materials together with loose parts as there is no one, or correct way in using these resources supporting children’s creativity, autonomy and confidence.

Understanding that our Pre-schoolers will enter a very different workforce to that of today.  Therefore the playful experiences must not only expose children to basic concepts of  literacy and numeracy but to also lay the foundations for essential future skills such as learning how to learn, curiosity, problem solving, critical and creative thinking and to be resilient and possess emotional intelligence.

Renee Freund

Educator

Renee Freund

MONTROSE

Teacher

Narelle Walker
Educator

Michele Howard
Educator

Michelle Holscher
Louise Alderman
Teacher

Louise Alderman

Teacher

Narelle Walker

Narelle teaches the 3/4 year old children and one of the 4/5 year old sessions. Narelle has been at the preschool since 2002. Her qualifications include: Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood), Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood), First Aid Level 2, Asthma Management, Allergy, Anaphylaxis and Epipen Administration trained. Narelle’s two children both attended this preschool.

Educator

Michele Howard

I have been the educator at Montrose preschool for 9 years. I have a certificate III in Children’s Services a Diploma in Children’s Services and a certificate III in Disability Support. I started at Mt Evelyn Special School then went on to Additional Assistant in numerous kinders and then found my way to Montrose where I will be forever! I have loved every minute of being here, the staff and all the families that have come through (some being here as long as I have)

Educator

Michelle Holscher

Louise Alderman

Teacher

Louise Alderman

MOOROOLBARK

Heather Trotter
Teacher

Heather Trotter
Kellye Barton
Teacher

Kellye Barton
Melissa Allwell
Educator

Melissa Allwell
Naomi O’Sullivan
Educator

Naomi O’Sullivan
Ann-Maree Scott
Educator

Ann-Maree Scott
Nikki Pinnock
Educator

Nikki Pinnock
Grace Blatnik
Educator

Grace Blatnik
Heather Trotter

Teacher

Heather Trotter

Heather has worked here as a Kindergarten Teacher for more than 25 years and still loves the fact that you never know what the next day will bring. Her favourite part of the job is the direct contact with the children, supporting them to develop attitudes and skills that will help them in their future years. Heather has a Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood).

Kellye Barton

Teacher

Kellye Barton

Kellye is mum of two children, who she absolutely adores. She enjoys running and one of her biggest personal achievements was running the 10km at Disneyland California in 2017.

Kellye started the MECEC team in 2016 in white/wombats group, as well as relief teaching in the 4yo program and other 3yo groups. In 2019 she became the teacher in the Possums group.

Kellye’s qualifications include: Bachelor of Science, Grad. Dip Education (Primary and Secondary), Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (Bachelor of Early Childhood Education equivalent).

She has a great interest in all things STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and loves all things science, mathematics, fun, messy and sparkly.

Melissa Allwell

Educator

Melissa Allwell

Melissa joined the MECEC team in 2005 as an additional assistant. From 2008, Melissa started working as the Assistant in the 4 year old group. She is a great support to the staff, children and their parents. Her experience and gentle nature lend themselves to the nurturing environment of the Centre.

Naomi O’Sullivan

Educator

Naomi O’Sullivan

Naomi started here in 2011 working two sessions each week as the Assistant for the 4 year old groups. She has a passion for outdoor play, and loves to join in the messiest activities – especially clay and fingerpaint.

Ann-Maree Scott

Educator

Ann-Maree Scott

AnnMaree is new to MECEC in 2020. She is Cert III qualified, having worked previously in childcare for 4yrs before joining council run preschools 5yrs ago.

AnnMaree is the proud mum of two daughters, aged 12 & 19. She also has a trained and certified therapy dog.

AnnMaree enjoys the celebrations of children’s learning at preschool and is looking forward to working with the MECEC staff, children and families.

Nikki Pinnock

Educator

Nikki Pinnock

Nicki joined the MECEC team in 2008 as 3 year old group Leader. She has a background in Childcare, 3 year old Kindergarten teaching and nannying. She brings with her a wealth of knowledge and ideas and we welcome her beautiful smiling face to MECEC.

Grace Blatnik

Educator

Grace Blatnik

MOUNT DANDENONG

Teacher

Catherine Yeaman
Educator

Victoria Clarke
Jo-Anne Dixon
Educator

Jo-Anne Dixon

Teacher

Catherine Yeaman

Educator

Victoria Clarke

Jo-Anne Dixon

Educator

Jo-Anne Dixon

MOUNT EVELYN

Teacher

Claire Moreton
Educator

Karen Stringer
Educator

Sandi Havekotte

Teacher

Claire Moreton

My name is Claire and I am excited to take on the role of Four-Year-Old Teacher here at Mt Evelyn Memorial Preschool.
I have been teaching for many years with both three and four year-old groups. I completed my bachelor of Early Childhood Education at Monash University in 2005.
I have 5 children and live on an acre in Healesville. I love to spend time with family and friends, growing veggies and reading. I hope we can work together in educating your child.
I feel that it is important to provide a safe and welcoming learning environment for all of the children so that they can grow, learn and develop new skills.

Educator

Karen Stringer

My name is Karen and I have lived in Mt Evelyn for 23 years and enjoy being part of its lovely community.
I am married with 4 children (2 adult & 2 at high school) all of whom have attended this preschool prior to me working here.
While re-training in children’s services after my children all started school, I carried out my study placement here at MEMPS and went on from there to do some relief work also.
When a job became available I applied for the position and was successful in obtaining my current position and have now been here for 6 years.
As I work with both the three and four year old groups I have the privilege of seeing the children grow and mature over two years which I love.
My favourite part about my job is build a relationship both with the children and their families which I believe is very important.

Educator

Sandi Havekotte

My name is Sandi and I am one of the Co-educators of the 4 y.o. group at Mt Evelyn Memorial Preschool. I first came here as an Integration Support worker and on completing my Certificate III in Children’s Services successfully applied for my current role.
I moved to Mt Evelyn over 20 years ago and I now live here with my 2 sons. We all love being a part of this wonderful local community. A keen music lover, gardener and adventure seeker (yes I did jump out of a perfectly good plane over the Yarra Valley fairly recently), I enjoy a challenge!
I have personal experience in special education and believe all children can learn and thrive in their own unique way. It is a true privilege being able to make a difference to the lives of others and be a facilitator in the journey of independence, personal growth and development of these young individuals.

SARAH COURT

Teacher

Kim Smyth
Educator

Flaminia Grubacki
Educator

Joanne Edwards
Educator

Margaret Wrigglesworth

Kim Sebire
Michelle Hegarty
Teacher

Michelle Hegarty
Amy Blain
Educator

Amy Blain

Teacher

Kim Smyth

In our 4 year old programs there is an emphasis on creativity, problem solving and independent learning skills. Kim is a qualified and experienced educator who enjoys encouraging the children to be creative and innovative. She joined the team at Sarah Court Preschool in 2011 after re-training to join the workforce again from ​maternity leave. Kim enjoyed her own early childhood experience with her children so much she seized the opportunity to change her career path to work in early education.

Kim believes childrens work is play, which supports Sarah Court Preschools play based learning program. She is able to use her own children as guinea pigs for new learning activities with painting, creating or tinkering with odds and ends. Kim enjoys sharing much loved childrens books and discovering new ones with the children she works with. “I am passionate about reading and writing for children, and it is a joy to see children engrossed in a great story. I also enjoy being outside with the children who have not yet learned to worry about the heat, the cold or the wet. The creative ways they play and learn together continues to amaze me.”

Educator

Flaminia Grubacki

Flaminia assist’s Allison to create a fun and creative environment for children to play and learn. Flaminia started at Sarah Court Preschool in 2010 and brought many years of early childhood experience with her. Flaminia is a local to Montrose and lives here with her husband and two children.

Flaminia is also a talented painter who has created beautiful murals at both Sarah Court and the Montrose playground. “I love working with my colleagues, teaching and caring for young soul’s. It’s fun and challenging. I love drawing and teaching children in the garden.”

Educator

Joanne Edwards

Jo assists Kim to create a cheerful and caring environment for the kids to play and learn. Jo started at Sarah Court Preschool when her own children were there over 17 years ago. Jo is now the very proud Grandmother of three, one of whom has just started this year at Sarah Court.
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Jo definitely loves to be outside with the children getting her hands dirty. “I love playing in the sandpit and am a star at making volcanos with baking soda and vinegar. I love coming to kinder and watching the children grow throughout the year as they gain more confidence and learn how to do new things.”

Educator

Margaret Wrigglesworth

Kim Sebire

Michelle Hegarty

Teacher

Michelle Hegarty

Amy Blain

Educator

Amy Blain

SASSAFRAS

Teacher

Debbie Haberfield
Educator

Leonie Stow

Teacher

Debbie Haberfield

Educator

Leonie Stow

UPWEY

Michelle Myers
Teacher

Michelle Myers
Teacher

Karen McAlister
Educator

Amanda Bende
Heather McCallum
Educator

Heather McCallum

Vanessa Veal
Michelle Myers

Teacher

Michelle Myers

Teacher

Karen McAlister

Karen joined the permanent staff of Upwey South Preschool in 2016 as assistant educator to the 4-year-old group, having been a regular reliever in 2014 and 2015. Prior to this she worked in a number of different preschool centres over many years, as well as in public libraries as a children’s librarian. In 2018 she took on the role of teacher to Upwey South’s 3-year-old group, and in August of that year also stepped into that role at Upwey Preschool. Karen has lived in Upwey for many years and loves our special hills environment!

Karen believes in supporting all children to feel safe and nurtured, to develop positive self-esteem, enhance their curiosity, expand their knowledge, and become independent and confident learners. She has special interests in picturebooks and music and the songs she teaches your children will get stuck in your head for days.

Educator

Amanda Bende

Heather McCallum

Educator

Heather McCallum

Vanessa Veal

UPWEY SOUTH

Teacher

Elisha Loves
Teacher

Karen McAlister
Educator

Janet Muhle

Teacher

Elisha Loves

Teacher

Karen McAlister

Karen joined the permanent staff of Upwey South Preschool in 2016 as assistant educator to the 4-year-old group, having been a regular reliever in 2014 and 2015. Prior to this she worked in a number of different preschool centres over many years, as well as in public libraries as a children’s librarian. In 2018 she took on the role of teacher to Upwey South’s 3-year-old group, and in August of that year also stepped into that role at Upwey Preschool. Karen has lived in Upwey for many years and loves our special hills environment!

Karen believes in supporting all children to feel safe and nurtured, to develop positive self-esteem, enhance their curiosity, expand their knowledge, and become independent and confident learners. She has special interests in picturebooks and music and the songs she teaches your children will get stuck in your head for days.

Educator

Janet Muhle

Janet has been at Belgrave Preschool since 2007. Janet lives locally and assists with the 4 year old group each week.

WANDIN

Genevieve Kogelman

Genevieve Kogelman
Jo Gaissl

Jo Gaissl
Fiona Weir

Fiona Weir
Simone Cicchelli

Simone Cicchelli
Genevieve Kogelman

Genevieve Kogelman

Jo Gaissl

Jo Gaissl

Fiona Weir

Fiona Weir

Simone Cicchelli

Simone Cicchelli

WARBURTON

Annette Par
Teacher

Annette Par
Dawn Norris

Dawn Norris
Annette Par

Teacher

Annette Par

Dawn Norris

Dawn Norris

WOORI YALLOCK

Teacher

Adel Novak
Educator

Leah Parker
Educator

Alana Hamilton

Teacher

Adel Novak

I am the 4/5yo teacher at Woori Yallock Preschool. I have worked at the kinder since 1999, with a little time off to start a family. I am very passionate about my position and have the wonderful opportunity of working with families within the community and their children. I believe every child is a unique person, with their own interests and learning styles. I provide the opportunity, space and time to interact within a meaningful environment where a child can construct new ideas and develop existing knowledge. I provide a learning environment that reflects this belief, providing opportunities to explore, experiment, create, investigate and wonder. I believe in each child’s capacity to succeed.

Educator

Leah Parker

After being on the relief list for YKR whilst my children were younger, I was lucky enough to join the Woori Yallock Team in 2018.
I have worked in Early Childhood and Primary schools since 2013 and have extensive experience in working with children with additional needs.
I am currently studying my Diploma of Children’s services and have completed a Key Signing workshop.
My passion for the job stems from watching the children develop their new skills through the experiences we provide for them.

Educator

Alana Hamilton

Alana joins the staff at Chirnside from 2017, having worked with Yarra Ranges Kindergartens at another centre since 2011. Alana holds a  Diploma of Community Services (Childcare). She also holds First Aid Level 2, Asthma management, Allergy, Anaphylaxis and Epipen Administration training. Alana is the mother of three growing children.

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Mail: PO Box 416 Mooroolbark 3138
Phone: 03 9726 0439
E-mail: info@yrkinders.com

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Yarra Ranges Kindergartens Inc. respectfully acknowledges the traditional owners, the Wurundjeri people, as the custodians of this land. We pay respect to all Aboriginal community Elders, past and present, who have resided in the area and have been an integral part of the history of the region.

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