Meet the Team
Our staff are hand-picked on their vibrant & nurturing personalities, their passion for education, and their enthusiasm for providing respectful, empowering and quality care for children.
Vanessa Burgess
Centre Owner & Teacher - Nido Class ( 0 - 3 Years )
Kia ora, my name is Vanessa, and I live in Waihi with my husband, Luke and two children. I have a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education, Aperfeild Montessori Diploma, and over 20 years of experience working in ECE. In my spare time, you will find me gardening and spending time with friends & family.
Julie-Ann Arundel
Centre Manager
Hi, I’m Julie-Ann, and I live in Waihi Beach with my husband Troy and children Zach, Benjamin, Erin and Madison. We moved to the beautiful Bay of Plenty about 20 years ago. I have worked in childcare for around 24 years and love watching children grow and develop, knowing I play an essential part in their learning journey.
Tyla Moore
Teacher - Nido Class ( 0 - 3 years )
Hi, I’m Tyla, and I live in Katikati. I gained my bachelor’s in Early Childhood Teaching in 2021. My passion is working with our over three children in the bambini room. I enjoy building relationship and watching children grow into their own personalities.
Dylan Sharp
Teacher - Bambini Class (3 - 6 Years)
Hello, my name is Dylan. In 2023, I pursued my studies in level four Early Childhood. I'm currently enrolled in an early childhood education bachelor's course. I'm passionate about working with people over three; I love to observe and engage with them as they pursue their interests further.
Eileen Harley
Teacher - Nido Class ( 0 - 3 years )
Outgoing and friendly child caregiver with demonstrated ECE experience as a permanent reliever in Aotearoa NZ. Experience caring for tamariki while providing encouragement and kindness. Adept at guiding playtime and leading creative activities, with a gift for keeping children engaged through fun activities.
Selena Thomas
Teacher - Nido Class ( 0 - 3 Years )
Kia Ora My name is Selena. Since 2022, I have been working at Athenree Montessori. I recently returned from maternity leave, having cherished time with my newest family member, Olive. I've completed my Early Childhood Education at level three. Seeing the younger children at Athenree Montessori explore and develop is one of my favorite aspects of working in our Nido class. A home away from home is what our center is.
Tayla Henderson
Teacher - Nido Class ( 0 - 3 Years )
Hi, my name is Tayla Henderson, and I am starting my third and final year of study. I have always loved being around children and have always known I wanted to be a teacher. Teaching and watching the tamariki learn and thrive is enriching for me. I love building solid and trusting relationships will everyone in the ECE setting.
Kim Bouzaid
Teacher - Bambini room ( 3 - 6 yrs )
Kia ora, I’m Kim and live in Waihi with my husband Mark. I have a son Matt and a granddaughter Daisy. I have a Diploma in Kindergarten teaching and have over 30 years of experience. I am dedicated to and passionate about early childhood education.
