OUR TEAM

 Preschool Owner

Hi, I am Shirley, the proud owner and hands on operator here at Pikopiko      Preschool. You will see me around the preschool assisting staff and                families on a daily basis. 

I started my journey in the ECE sector 20 years ago. I started as a teacher, and later on started to manage various preschools across Auckland. I am a strong mentor, guide, teacher, counsellor, learner , prayerful, and a kind Leader.

I hold a Master's degree in Arts, Bachelor's degree in Education, a            Bachelor's degree in Education (ECE) from Auckland University. 

I value loving and caring relations. I have experience in setting up, managing and working within a Reggio Emilia inspired Christian based preschools.

I strongly believe in encouraging children to have freedom to appreciate the resources provided and  to use them in learning social, emotional, spiritual and physical well being. 

If you encourage children to get involved, explore their world, persist with challenges and communicate clearly with others. they will develop a belief in themselves, a love of learning and the courage needed to take the next steps forward.

Centre Manager

Kia Ora koutou katoa, ko Elin ahau.

​

I am privileged to be the Centre Manager here at Pikopiko Learning. I have worked in ECE for almost 10 years and have had the opportunity to work in a variety of roles and with a range of age groups. I am strongly influenced by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and base my work and personal beliefs on democracy, individuality and kindness. I believe that we all, children and adults, are unique human beings who contribute to this world in our own way.

​

In my role as the Centre Manager I am fortunate to share with others my experiences and knowledge as well as ensuring that Pikopiko is a place where everyone feels at home and where everyone can learn collaboratively. 

​

Naku te rourou, nau te rourou, ka ora ai nga tamariki. (With your basket and my basket of knowledge our children will grow).

Infant Toddler Classroom

In our Infant Toddler class we provide a rich and nurturing environment, creating experiences where their curiosity, confidence and actions can enable them to develop meaningful theories about the world they live in.

We also believe that by creating meaningful relationships with both the natural world and the adults and friends around them, the children can confidently gain the foundation of a lifelong passion of learning.

Preschool

Our Preschool children are confident building relationships and skills with their friends around them. These enable the children to debate and discuss their own ideas through the investigation of projects developed from the childrens interests and extended using inspiration from Reggio Emilia.

​