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Our People

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Robert Miles-Kingston, Centre Manager

Tell us something about yourself.

I have lived in Te Puke for over nine years and have enjoyed being part of our diverse little community. I am married with three children and one grandchild.

What inspired you to become an early childhood teacher?

A desire to make a difference in children’s lives and support them to be all they can be – and with the support of my wonderful team, I believe that is exactly what we do here every single day, in ways we may never know.

How long have you been working in this sector?

I have been involved in ECE for over 20 years. I started teaching in childcare and then worked and trained in Rudolf Steiner kindergartens across the North Island before returning to childcare when I returned to the Bay of Plenty. I have worked at Learning Adventures for over six years, and in a management role for more than three.

What do you love most about what you do?

That we actually make a difference for the children and their whanau.

What sets Learning Adventures Te Puke apart?

  • The amazing dedicated team of teachers.
  • The infinitely interesting families who make up our whanau.
  • The cultural diversity of our community and the learning this brings every single day.

Diploma of Teaching ECE
Advanced Diploma of Waldorf Education ECE

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Tracy Upton-Poole, Head Teacher

Kia ora, I am Tracy Upton-Poole, I embarked on my ECE career 20 years ago, within this time I was a stay-at-home mum to four children. I returned to my career and study in 2004 where I achieved my Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.

I am passionate about children’s social and emotional development, my focus is ensuring children are empowered as people and confident in their learning journey. I have been at this centre since it opened in 2009, I love the diverse community and enjoy the wonderful families we meet each day.