Head Teacher

Kia Ora, Ko Emily Smith toku ingoa.

I started working at Elizabeth Ave Childcare in March 2006. This has become my second home. In May 2021 I became the head teacher. I love working here and meeting so many wonderful families. I have a diploma in Early Childhood Education from The Open Polytechnic of New Zealand and have full teacher registration.

I have a husband Andy and 3 children Lockie, Lucy and Lilah who all attend school. I also have 2 cats Princess and Antonio. In my spare time I love spending it watching my girls at their dance classes and with my family and friends going for outings.

Kaiako

Kia Ora, Ko Courtney toku ingoa.

I have a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) from Victoria University. I have worked with children for a lot of my life being the eldest of 4 children. I have been employed at Elizabeth Ave Childcare since 2020 and was at Busy Bees before that.

I have a wonderful husband Stephen and we live together in a flat in Maoribank. I grew up in Wainuiomata but moved to Upper Hutt in 2018 and I am loving it here.

I have a passion for helping children to learn, grow and reach their full potential. I look forward to working with your children and the whanau.

Kaiako

Kia Ora my name is Bridget,

I have a Diploma in early childhood education and a full certification with the teaching council of Aotearoa. I have been involved in early childhood education for over 20 years. Most of this time has been with this company. I have a passion for working with children and  lead the nursery.   I have a partner Christopher and together we have 5 boys. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and watching my boys play sport.

Kaiako

Hi my name is Lisa Kirkwood. 

I have a Diploma in early childhood education and a full certification with the teaching council . I have been working at Elizabeth Avenue early childhood centre since November 2008. In my spare time I like spending it with my family and friends. I have a daughter , Amber-Jade. During my time at this centre I look forward to getting to know your children and working alongside the teachers to learn how your centre operates.

I’m originally from South Africa. I have been living in NZ for a month and a bit.

I am a qualified Primary school teacher with a B.Ed. qualification. I taught for two years in South Africa. I am very passionate about working and having fun with children.

While I am not teaching, I enjoy dot painting, walking, being outdoors and spending time with my partner.

Kia Ora, Ko Tile (Tina) Harrison toku ingoa.

I am a qualified and fully registered teacher here at Elizabeth Avenue Childcare Centre.

I gained my Diploma of teaching while studying at the Christchurch College of Education. I am very passionate about working and having fun with children! I have over 15 years’ experience in teaching early childhood.

While I am not teaching I enjoy gardening, walking, playing squash, cooking and baking.

Kia Ora,

My name is Diana Hicks and I am a new Kaiako at Elizabeth Ave Childcare beginning in March 2025. I am teaching in the nursery. A little about me, I was born and raised in this beautiful country not only being kiwi but a German as well. My hobbies include baking, going on long walks and reading. My passion in life is to travel the world. I love learning about different cultures and their history. I have already crossed off a few places as after college I spent 2 months travelling Europe. I am a animal lover and have two cats and a rabbit. I looking forward to getting to know the tamariki and whanau and gain new life experiences.

Kia Ora

I have taught for over 18 years in the Upper Hutt area. I trained as a primary school teacher and an Incredible Years teacher for children aged 3-8 years. I love the Incredible Years philosophy around supporting the social-emotional development of little ones. I have two adult children, my son at home and my daughter in Brisbane with her two dear little daughters. I am really looking forward to getting to know the teaching team, children and families of Elizabeth Avenue.