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Our People

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Michelle Wewege, Centre Manager

What inspired you to become an early childhood teacher?

I enjoy encouraging children to become independent and confident in their abilities to learn and succeed.  I am extremely passionate about quality care for children and I believe that when a child is well cared for their learning thrives and success is inevitable.

How long have you been working in this sector?

Seven years in South Africa and ten years in New Zealand.

What do you love most about what you do?

I love building relationships with children and families.  I love knowing each child as an individual and being able to support them through different situations.

What makes Learning Adventures Warkworth special?

Our centre is a home away from home, staffed by a passionate teaching team who embrace each child’s individuality. We teach our tamariki sustainable practices allowing Kaiako to learn alongside our families.

What is your favourite time of the year at the centre, and why?

The entire year is my favourite time as we are always creating opportunities for fun and laughter.  We celebrate life every day and I am totally invested in creating a safe space where children feel loved and cared for.

What is your personal ECE philosophy?

I believe that ECE is a place where children are offered opportunities to learn and discover and where they are encouraged to become capable and confident learners.

Bachelor of Education (ECE)

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Hannah Elliott, Nest Head Teacher

I feel that respectful practice is paramount in order to build relationships with children and their whanau. I believe it is these relationships that build the foundation for authentic, child-led learning and I feel it is an honour for us as teachers to be a part of this journey. I believe that each person, be it a child, mother, teacher, team mate or student, brings with them a wealth of knowledge, and by making the effort to communicate and build relationships with others, we are all able to learn and grow together collaboratively.

Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)

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Nicola Bowyer, Piwakawaka/Tui Head Teacher

Nicola has recently joined the Learning Adventure Warkworth team and has a postgraduate diploma in early childhood education. Prior to moving to New Zealand, Nicola worked within the special education sector and has over 20 years of experience working with children from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. Nicola enjoys encouraging children to become independent and confident in their abilities to learn new things. Nicola advocates for all children in her care and is passionate about building respectful and reciprocal relationships with both children and families.