I am a mother, professional leader and co-owner operator of Seedling’s Early Learning Centres in beautiful Otautahi Christchurch.

The last several decades I have spent teaching along with leading teams to succeed in becoming the best they can be in their mahi with tamariki and whānau, I believe relationships are foundational to the great work we do, I feel thankful to love what I do.

I am passionate about leadership and continuing to grow myself and are privileged to be able to support the growth in others, I see growth as essential for success.  As a coach and mentor, I view reflection, collaboration and conversations for learning essential building blocks for building knowledge and practice over time.

Our approach and practice to support our pedagogy at Seedlings is driven by aspects of the Reggio philosophy, we are inspired by the principles and hundred languages of Reggio and work with our people in making these visible in our practice and centre context with all ako.

I have a strong belief that high quality teaching and learning environments where there is a strong focus on the environment as the third teacher is a driver for tamariki being able to explore and discover the many possibilities they deserve to encounter.  Creating spaces for tamariki that are inspiring and spark curiosity and wonder where they are enriched with choice and materials creates many possibilities for tamariki to lead their own learning and experience joy through their play.

I think it’s important to bring a positive energy, kindness, curiosity and inquiring mind along with the best version of our self to our learners each day.

I enjoy immersing myself in creativity and have an appreciation of the arts and design, I get great pleasure out of being in nature and support my own wellbeing through yoga practice and surrounding myself with great people.

Over the years I have had had the opportunity to attend two Melbourne study tours and aspire to one day visit Reggio Emilia to further my knowledge, continuing to grow and enrich my work with others.

Kāhore taku toa i te toa

Takitahi, he toa takitini

We cannot succeed without the support of those around us.

Ngā mihi nui

Kylie