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

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.

Dylan Sharp

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

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.

Tayla Henderson

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

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.

Nicky Twidle

Kia Ora, my name is Nicky Twidle and I am a kaiako at Athenree Montessori. I grew up in Waihi and now live in Waihi beach with my mum, dad and little sister. My love for Montessori flourished when I started my Bachelor in early childhood education and was given the opportunity to complete my first ever placement at Athenree Montessori. Since then I was eager to come back and get stuck in to all the magical things that happen here. I love working with all age groups, they all come with their own strengths, positives and uniqueness which is something that I love to see and be a part of.

Kaisha Gosse

Kai Ora whānau my name is Kaisha i have been a kaiako at Athenree Montessori for over three years now. I absolutely adore the tamariki I teach! I also organise and run children’s disco events. In my spare time I like to go the the beach, hang out with friends and attend festivals.