our philosophy
At Twizel Early Learning Centre, we provide an environment where tamariki feel safe, nurtured, and inspired. Where collaborative relationships with whānau and our community provide a strong foundation for our tamariki to learn.
Kaiako provide an environment where tamariki are empowered to become directors of their own learning through barrier-free access. With opportunities to build resilience, independence, and become competent, confident communicators in our local curriculum.
Our curriculum is inspired by Reggio Emilia philosophy where children are encouraged to learn holistically through exploration and discovery which excites their natural curiosity and wonder.
We are committed to honouring Te Tirito o Waitangi through our daily programme, rituals, and learning environment, using Te Whāriki to weave an individual learning pathway for each child. Twizel Early Learning Centre celebrates the rich diversity of our tamariki and embraces the many different cultures our whānau bring to our learning community.
Tamariki are provided with opportunities to explore the world around them whilst fostering lifelong skills and a love for learning that will continue with children throughout their lives.
our mission
To provide high quality teaching and learning for our growing community where tamariki are supported to become competent and confident learners.
our vision
A place where tamariki, whānau, and kaiako work collaboratively to provide a safe and secure environment for tamariki to flourish as unique individuals.
our core values
- Kind | Manaakitanga
- Creativity | Auahatanga
- Risk Taking | Tango Mōrearea
- Relationships | Whanaungatanga
- Cultural Identity – Community Spirit | Whakapapa – Wairua hapori
Our Curriculum Areas
- Music – Dance | Puoro me te Kanikani
- Puzzles | Panga
- Sensory Play | Tākaro tairongo
- Family and Dramatic Play | Ngā Whakaari ā-whānau
- Construction | Waihanga
- Arts and Crafts | Toi me te mahi toi
- Manipulative Resources | Mahi ā-rīnga
- Science and Nature | Pūtaiao me te Taiao
- Physical Active Play | Korikori tinana
- Books – Storytelling Props | Pūrākau pānui pukapuka tuhi, whakarango, kōrero
Bridget Tiffen
Kia ora,
I am the centre manager here at Twizel Early Learning Centre. I have a degree in Early Childhood Education and began my teaching career back in 2015. I have been fortunate to work with all age groups throughout my teaching career and stepped into various leadership positions during this time.
Having such a lovely centre and passionate team is a real privilege, and I love the relationships and care our team have with and for all our community of learners. I look forward to sharing in every child’s journey and supporting my team in providing the best possible care and education for your family.
Thanks :)
Kate Toki
Kia ora,My name is Kate and I am the Centre Manager. I am a qualified Early Childhood teacher and have 17 years of experience working at Twizel Early Learning Centre.
I grew up in Twizel and am passionate about this centre and community. I have two daughters who attended TELC; one is a student at Twizel Area School and the other now attends Waitaki Girls High School.
The best part of my job is supporting our amazing teaching team and being part of the growth and development of tamariki during their crucial early years - laying the foundation for their future.It is a very rewarding job and being able to see tamariki progress through their developmental stages from our Kaki room (Under 2's) to our Tui room (Over 2's), then off to school is something very special.
Dani Gare
I’m Danielle, also known as Dani and I am the lead teacher in the Tui Room (over 2’s) here at Twizel Early Learning Centre. I began my teaching career back in 2017 where I gained my Bachelor in Early Childhood Education teaching in all age groups in Early Childhood as-well as leadership positions.
My passion with shaping young minds is ensuring the environment and learning space is reflected as the third teacher to support children to explore their own ideas and refine their working theories so they can learn to the best of their ability.
Barbara Burgess
Kia ora,
My name is Barbara Burgess, and I am a teacher here at Twizel Early Learning Centre. I have a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and have been teaching since 1985 at this centre.
It has been an exciting journey as we moved from a crèche to where we are today. It has been very rewarding to watch our tamariki achieve with the support of a caring and passionate team.
JESS AMOS
Kia ora,
My name is Jess Amos and I have been a teacher at Twizel Early Learning Centre for 11 years. I am a fully qualified primary teacher, and I am very passionate about helping our tamariki develop the skills to feel confident and capable at school.
Outside of work, my husband Jack, and our three boys- Huxley 5, Beau 3, and Riley 1, keep me very busy! As a family we love being outdoors. We especially love everything the Mackenzie country has to offer and when we aren’t spending our weekends building our house, we are together hunting, hiking, camping, fishing or jet boating.
TESSA
Kia ora,
My name is Tessa, I am a qualified teacher at Twizel Early Learning Centre. I gained my early childhood qualification in December 2022.
I am privileged to be working in the Kakī room with under two year olds. I love being an early childhood teacher where I am able to support each child and their whānau on their individual learning journey.
Navrose Kaur
Kia ora!
My name is Navrose Kaur, and I proudly serve as an educator at the Twizel Early Learning Centre. It's been my privilege to be a part of this nurturing environment for the past three years, where I've had the pleasure of working with children.
Transitioning from my previous role as an Aquaculture technician, with qualifications in aquaculture and fisheries management, to the world of education has been a rewarding journey. Twizel Early Learning Centre has provided me with the opportunity to work with diverse age groups of children, and I cherish my time here, collaborating with my wonderful team.
sofia IRis nunez
My name is Sofia Iris Nunez, I was born in the Philippines. I came to New Zealand for a working holiday in 2015 but I decided to stay in this beautiful country for good.
I completed a Certificate of Early Childhood Practise and I have been teaching for six years. I've been part of Twizel Early Learning Centre since January 2017 and I have been teaching both Kakī and Tūī/Taniwha children.
I love working with children as I get to learn alongside them and understand their nature at the same time. I enjoy supporting and developing their learning through fun and creative ways such as arts, music and movement, messy play and the use of loose parts. I believe that as a kaiako it is important that we promote an inclusive environment where it is safe for our children and their whānau to express their sense of identity and uniqueness.
The days that I am not working I enjoy getting out into nature, gardening or going out for a walk and also I enjoy watching movies, as well as spending time with my family and friends.
kylie Schnell
Kia ora,
My name is Kylie, I am a qualified teacher at Twizel Early Learning Centre. I began studying Early childhood in 2020 and since then have become a registered teacher.
I love working with and alongside children, helping them grow and develop. I love helping to support children and whānau aspirations and learning goals for their children. I love being apart of your children's learning journey.
Outside of work I have a daughter who keeps me busy enough. However when we can we enjoy getting out and about explore the local playgrounds, walking tracks and bike tracks.
Debbie ELLWOOD
Kia Ora, I’m Debbie Ellwood
I’m a qualified Diversional Therapist with over 31 years of experience working in a small dementia unit in Dunedin. In late 2024, my partner and I moved to Twizel to be closer to our family and friends. We’ve always felt a strong connection to this wonderful community – my partner grew up here, and our family has loved visiting for the past 20 years.
I feel very fortunate to now be part of this special early learning centre, working across both the Tui and Kāki rooms. Everyday is filled with fun, laughter, and learning. I love supporting tamariki and their whānau on their unique learning journeys.
It is a privilege to watch each child grow, explore, and develop their own sense of wonder. I’m looking forward to sharing in many more milestones and special moments together.
Jess Hayes
Kia ora,
My name is Jess, I am the administrator here at Twizel Early Learning Centre, you may also see me out with the children supporting our friendly team from time to time.
I have a background in graphic design, hospitality and administration, I love being creative and building relationships. I am privileged to be working at Twizel Early Learning Centre and love being able to support the children with their creativity and help them develop new skills.
