Kia ora,
My name is Kate and I am the Centre Manager. I am a qualified Early Childhood teacher since 2008 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.

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.

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.

I’m Ruby, and I am the Head Teacher in the Tui Room here at Twizel Early Learning Centre. My journey into early childhood education began with a deep love for creativity, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Chinese Painting and a Master of Business Management, and during my postgraduate years, I had the joy of teaching Chinese painting to children in Christchurch. That experience sparked my passion for working with young minds, so I went on to complete my teaching qualification and am now a fully registered teacher.

My teaching philosophy centres on the environment as a third teacher, a space that invites exploration, wonder, and the freedom to test ideas. I believe that art and cultural experiences are powerful tools for this, and I’m excited to gently introduce Chinese painting and cultural activities into our room, using brushes, ink, and playful discovery to enrich children’s understanding of the world while celebrating our diverse community.

Above all, I’m here to listen, nurture, and support each child’s unique growth alongside our amazing team and your whānau. I believe every child is capable, curious, and worthy of joy, and I look forward to walking alongside them in their learning.

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.
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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.

Kia ora,
My name is Jess Amos and I have been a teacher at Twizel Early Learning Centre since 20213. 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.

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.

Kia Ora, I’m Debbie Ellwood
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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 in the Kāki room.

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.

Kia ora,
I'm Ida! I graduated from the University of Otago in 2025 and am excited to begin my journey in Early Childhood Education.
I'm passionate about getting to know each child, respecting who they are, and understanding their individual personalities and interests.
I enjoy creating experiences that are meaningful and suited to each child, while learning and growing alongside them.

Kia ora,

I’m Jess, I joined the Twizel Early Learning Centre in 2022 and have worked in Early Childhood Education in a range of roles since 2017.

I love being a part of a Community based centre, and that everything we do is for the children. I have a passion for the outdoors, creating engaging environments and love watching the children explore the world through their wonder and curiosity. We live on a local high country station with our boys and you can often can find us out on the farm, boating or at the lake with friends. Summer is my favourite time of year in the Mackenzie!

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.
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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.