Little Blue Penguin Prestons
Kaiako at Little Blue Penguin are caring professionals who are there to offer gentle, respectful guidance for children through quality, responsive interactions and a collaborative ‘community’ approach to teaching and learning.
Little Blue Penguin Prestons boasts an exceptional team of educators, each bringing their unique skills and expertise to provide the best care and education for tamariki. From fostering a love for sustainability to embracing cultural diversity, our team is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive and grow.
Rachel Phillips
Centre Manager
Rachel has a strong passion for inclusive education, creating environments where every child feels seen, supported, and valued. Rachel leads and teaches with heart and prioritises a supportive teaching and learning community.
Kristie Hack (Owner)
Support Kaiako / Kai Creator
Kristie is our Business Manager working with and alongside Rachel to create a quality programme. Kristie ensures that our kaiako, tamariki and their whānau have a strong sense of belonging.
Jamie O’Neill
Nursery Kaiako / Admin Support
Jamie values trusting and supporting all children while giving them the opportunity to experiment and explore. She values our calm approach and is a great organiser, supporting kaiako to continually improve their practice.
Aleisha Pascoe
Nursery Kaiako
Aleisha values relationships and tamariki and their whānau and ensures she gets to know the individuals needs of the tamariki in her care. She is very warm, unhurried and offers a calm approach.
Amanda Calvert
Nursery Kaiako
Amanda’s wealth of experience and unwavering dedication fosters responsive and meaningful interactions with every child in our care, ensuring a supportive environment for tamariki to flourish.
Carla Price
Preschool Kaiako
Carla has a warm, calm and inviting approach with tamariki and discovers new and inspiring ways to extend their interests and strengths. Her gentle approach helps foster a sense of calm and positivity among tamariki.
Pat Duffin
Preschool Kaiako
Pat is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships with tamariki and whānau. Through a nature-based and child-led approach, Pat creates a supportive community where every child feels valued and empowered to explore and learn.
Maddison Philpott
Preschool Kaiako
Maddy is a very empathetic, kind and caring kaiako who teaches with her heart and soul. She loves to be theatrical and spread positivity. Maddy started as a teacher aid working with ākonga with requiring additional support, and brings her nurturing approach to our community.
Rebecca Partleton
Preschool Kaiako
Rebecca has a passion for creating calm environments for our tamariki and building strong relationships with all. She has an interest in evidence-based practices and creating rituals that promote a sense of belonging.