Selena Newman
Selena holds a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood) and is a fully registered teacher with extensive experience in the early childhood sector since 2000. She took a brief hiatus to raise her two boys, but her passion for early childhood education has always been at the core of her career. Selena is dedicated to fostering developmental growth and providing quality learning experiences for young children. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, including her husband, two boys, and twin sister.
Selena oversees the curriculum at Pīwaka supporting the Team Leaders and spends 3 days a week in Kakamatua room.
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Brittany Denyer
Brittany holds a bachelor of Education and has a real passion for working with young tamariki and love being part of their learning journeys as they grow and explore the world around them.
Brittany is a proud mum of 3, which has given her a deep appreciation for how special the early years are. She believes in creating a warm, nurturing learning environment where every child feels safe, valued, and encouraged to be themselves. Brittany is really looking forward to getting to know all the tamariki and their whānau!
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Aina Talavou
Aina is a permanent teacher in Te Henga after relieving at Pīwaka for over four years, mainly in Huia room. Coming from a big family with six siblings, she values strong relationships and caring for others. Aina is also a proud aunty to her energetic nephews and beautiful niece, and enjoys spending quality time with them. In her free time, she loves hiking with friends, reading, and exploring new places. Passionate about supporting tamariki in their learning and development, Aina has also decided to study Early Childhood Education through NZTC to complete her degree in ECE and continue growing in her teaching journey.
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Esther Cama
Esther is a gentle compassionate teacher with over 5 years working with children. Esther loves playing instruments, helping her family whenever she can and spending time with her nieces and nephews.
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Kilisi Palu
Kilisi holds a B Ed Early Childhood and is fully certified. Kilisi has been in the Te Henga room for over 6 years and loves working with this age group. She is an active member of her church and the Tongan community.
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Janelle Laidlaw
Janelle holds a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) and is a fully registered teacher with seven years of experience in early childhood education. As a kaiako, Janelle is passionate about supporting children to become confident and competent individuals, creating meaningful relationships that nurture their learning, wellbeing, and sense of belonging. She values strong partnerships with whānau and is committed to supporting and celebrating the aspirations, strengths, and individuality of every child.
Outside of her professional role, Janelle enjoys spending time in nature, particularly walking through the Waitākere Ranges, and spending time with whānau and friends.
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