Our Team

• Haylee, Centre Manager

  

  I began my career in Early Childhood straight after high school in 2013, in the same year, I completed my Diploma of Early Childhood and have worked with various age groups, from running a three-year-old kinder to working with the babies in the Nursery room.

  I joined Samantha's Childcare and Kindergarten- Glen Iris at the beginning of 2020 and have been loving every second of it as I have the perfect balance of supporting the team as their 2IC and Educational Leader and well as working in the rooms discovering new learning with all the children regularly in the rooms.

  I believe that the children need to feel safe and secure in their daily environment, because of this I strive to have a positive and meaningful relationship with the children, so they are then able to thrive within their learning environments. As when children are thriving they become strong, independent and confident learners. 

  I look forward to getting to know your family and being a part of your child’s learning journey.

• Sahar, 2IC

  

  Bio to come...

• Lee, Toddler Room Leader

  

  My name is Leeanne (Lee) and I am a Diploma qualified educator here at Samantha's Childcare and Kindergarten-Glen Iris.  I come from a retail and education background, with experience working as a Nanny and in OSHC (out of school hours care).

  In 2014, I studied my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and have found my home in early education. I believe in providing children with a safe, engaging, fun and creative environment, where they are encouraged to explore nature and the outdoors; also developing kindness and compassion in children, is just as important as language, motor skills, and all other aspects of children's development.

  "Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world" - Albert Einstein.

• Tanya, Qualified Educator/ Health and Safety Representati

  

  I have been an Early Childhood educator at Samantha's Childcare- Glen Iris since 2015 and I hold my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. My family heritage is Russian and I speak the language fluently. My drive to engage and teach young children stems from my experiences as a single mum to a now teenager.

  I am very passionate about working with children, caring and nurturing them for their social, emotional, physical and educational needs in various age groups. Creating a safe and comfortable learning environment is critical for both families and educators as it allows the best outcomes for children. I enjoy educating and caring for children and shaping young minds to become valuable members of society. I believe that having a dedicated and passionate team is important when working with children and I am very grateful to be part of the team at Samantha’s childcare-Glen Iris.

  "Early Childhood Education is the key to the betterment of Society " - Maria Montessori

• Javier, Toddler Educator

  

  My name is Javier and I joined Samantha’s childcare Glen Iris early February 2023.

  Ever since I started secondary school, I knew I always wanted to work with children. At first exploring Primary School teaching but as my studies continued I found my passion in Early Childhood and am now studying towards my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education

  I lived in the Philippines before moving to Australia. I first moved to Darwin and after 5 years my family and I decided to move to Melbourne and I am ecstatic that we did. In Darwin I worked in multiple childcares and schools and now I get to work at a centre where I feel I can grow the most.  

  The earlier years of a person’s life is where they absorb the most information. I believe it is important to set a good example for the children and to make sure they learn all the necessary skills for what is ahead in life. As an educator I feel it is important to make sure the children are in an environment that is always safe and enjoyable.  

• Yimin, 4 YEAR-OLD KINDERGARTEN Teacher

  

  Hello, my name is Yimin and I am excited to be here and to have the opportunity to teach and learn with your children.

  I have been working in Early Childhood sector since 2012 and teaching kindergarten since 2020 and have loved every moment of it. I am passionate about creating a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn and grow in.

  I believe that every child is unique and has their own strengths and talents, and it is my job to help them discover and develop these skills. I believe that hands-on experiences and play-based learning are essential for young children to learn and develop essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and social-emotional development.  I look forward to working with you and your child at Samantha's Childcare and Kindergarten- Glen Iris.

• Thao, 4 YEAR-OLD KINDERGARTEN EDUCATOR

  

  My name is Thao. Originally from Vietnam, I moved to Australia in 2014 to pursue new opportunities.

  I begun my studies in Biomedical Science, but due to my passions for educating children I transferred and completed my Graduate Diploma of Early Education.  

  Within my teachings I follow the philosophy that each child is different and has unique capabilities, interested and learning style and because of this each child must be treated fairly and respectfully to feel safe and secure in a warm and nurturing environment. I believe that play-based learning and hands-on experience can help children express their feelings and cover physical and socio-emotional aspects of development whilst also embracing each person’s cultural diversity.

• Lilis, Centre Cook

  

  I have been in Childhood Education for seven years and hold Certificate III in Patisserie, Certificate II in Kitchen operation and a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. I have worked both in the kitchen as a cook and as an educator in a room over my career. At home I have three children of my own and have always had a passion for working with young children.

  Seeing the children having a good balanced meal at an early stage gives me satisfaction and encouraging them in healthy eating as we discuss their meals is always an enjoyable part of my day and I am always looking for new, inspired ways of cooking for the children whilst ensuring the nutritional values are met each day.

• Shruti, Qualified Educator

  

  I came into the childcare sector due to my love for children. Before starting in Early Childhood, I was working in the retail sector. After having my first child, I realised my true passion for children and hence began my journey to become a Diploma qualified early childhood educator.

  After achieving my qualification, my first role was in a casual position. I loved the opportunity to work different hours on different days at various childcare centres. I enjoyed being able to work and connect with children of all ages. Joining Samantha’s-Glen Iris, I moved from a float role to a supportive role in the Kinder room and after learning many new aspects to Early Childhood, I have joined the Toddler room. I love working at Samantha’s-Glen Iris and alongside the educators and the Center Manager who all support each other and make each day a new learning experience. My philosophy in life is to provide every child with an opportunity to grow, learn and develop through various activities, resources and learning environments based on their individual needs. My aim is to provide children fun, safe and positive environments where they are able to express and communicate their feelings confidently. I also believe in working in collaboration with the child’s families so as to achieve the best results for every child as input from families is very valuable.

• Kiara, Educator

  

  My name is Kiara and I have recently started my Bachelor in Early Education.  

  I believe that supporting children by making strong relationships and connections offers a foundation to thrive on, while teaching kindness and empathy. By engaging with individuals, I can acknowledge their interests and provide an environment that is tailored to each child, making their experiences and interactions more exciting.

  I believe that treating children with kindness sets an example and shows them how they should be towards their peers.