OUR TEACHING TEAM
Joy Leigh - Head Of School
Joy has grown up locally and now lives in Warkworth with her husband and 3 girls. She has worked in the Primary Sector Since 2012. Her passion lies in offering the community an alternative approach to Primary education, one that places the developmental needs of children at the forefront of teaching methods, fostering their journey toward intellectual independence. She has a Masters Degree in Education and is currently completing the AMI 6 - 12 Montessori diploma.
"The secret of good teaching is to regard the child's intelligence as a fertile field in which seeds may be sown, to grow under the heat of flaming imagination." Dr Maria Montessori
Anuradha Parthiban - Montessori Lead Guide
Anuradha Parthiban, mother of an 18-year-old from India is set to take over the Lead Montessori Guide roll. Holding a master's degree in zoology, she began her career as a researcher at an NGO, promoting sustainable agriculture methods among farmers. Anuradha’s introduction to Montessori education came as a parent, inspiring her to pursue and complete the AMI 6-12 diploma.
Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of working with children in India, Thailand, France, Vietnam, and the Ivory Coast, allowing her to experience and appreciate a rich diversity of cultures. During this time, she also earned her AMI 3-6 diploma, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of child development from ages 3 to 12.
Beyond her professional endeavours, she enjoy gardening, cooking, painting, and discussing the intersection of science and mythology with her scientist husband. She is thrilled to be part of the esteemed team at Nikau Montessori is looking forward to meeting you all.
Sarah Brockie - Art Specialist Teacher
Sarah is a New Zealand trained Primary teacher who has recently returned from twenty five years spent as an international educator. During this time she has taught primary children of various ages and held leadership roles in Taiwan, Hungary and Hong Kong. Teaching is one of Sarah’s greatest passions. She loves the reward of knowing her students both personally, and as learners. In fostering a life-long love of learning, Sarah places great importance in planning experiences that promote inquiry, creativity and collaboration. She aims to build a community that cares for each other, values difference and has kindness and respect at its core.
Pui Yinn Liew - Montessori Assistant
Kia ora! Pui Yinn is thrilled to call beautiful Auckland her home since immigrating from Malaysia in 2007. She has over two decades of passion for Montessori, starting out in Early Childhood. It has always been a dream to teach Primary, so she is currently on the AMI 6-12 Diploma, set to be completed in July 2025.
When she isn’t immersed in Montessori education, you can find her exploring the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand through tramping or hiking. In her spare time, she delves into a bit of sewing, crafting Montessori materials by hand, and giving a personalized touch to learning resources.
She is excited to join this vibrant community! She brings with HER a world of experience, passion, warmth, and a touch of adventure.