Our Kaiako
Bobbie Warn
Kia ora, I’m Bobbie, Centre Manager at Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre with a passion for empowering kaiako and tamariki to feel inspired and supported to grow and learn.
I’ve been teaching and leading within education Aotearoa for over ten years and alongside my teaching degree, I’m studying towards my masters in educational leadership. I come from a background of business management, finance and the arts – these skills support me in developing creative and engaging learning experiences for all children.
What I love most about working with tamariki is their curiosity, spontaneity and growth mindset — I believe we can learn as much from them as they can from us.
Outside of teaching, you’ll find me reading, learning something new, spending time with my family, traveling and creating.
I truly love being part of the Pīwakawaka whānau, where together we can support ngā tamariki to connect, explore and learn!”
Alison Alexander
My name is Alison Alexander. I am the Assistant Manager at Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre.
I am a qualified registered EC teacher who loves igniting children’s curiosity, and encouraging them to explore their interests and the world around them. I enjoy sharing my love of science, participating in messy play experiences, and helping children think ‘outside the box’.
My husband Graham and I have 3 daughters, all of whom are married, and 5 grandchildren. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, as well as reading, watching a good movie, Zumba, quilting, pottering in the garden, and going for walks in our beautiful country.
Lauren Cook
Kia ora! My name is Lauren, and I am a passionate kaiako at Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre. I grew up in Hong Kong and moved to Christchurch just over two years ago. With a background in early childhood education and a qualification as a children’s yoga teacher, I love creating nurturing and engaging environments where tamariki can thrive.
What I love most about working with children is that no two days are ever the same. I find joy in celebrating the small wins, fostering positive energy, and helping shape a brighter future. Being part of the Pīwakawaka whānau allows me to support tamariki as they grow in confidence, curiosity, and connection.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy baking, trying new foods, and traveling. I look forward to sharing laughter, learning, and meaningful moments with our tamariki and their whānau!
Coline Marion (Coco)
Kia ora! Bonjour! My name is Coco, and I am a teacher at Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre.
Originally from France, and I have been living in Christchurch for two years.
I began working with children in France as an after-school programme facilitator across a variety of settings. Then, I spent two years as a French language assistant in Primary and High School in Australia and New Zealand. Recently, I graduated from UC with a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education.
Building strong, trusting relationships with tamariki is at the heart of my teaching practice. I love sharing language, exploring music, and dancing together.
In my spare time, I like playing piano, running, hiking, and baking.
Leah Shannon Jackson
Hi, my name is Leah and I’m a teacher at Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre. I am currently studying my teaching degree through Te Rito Maioha. I love teaching because of the amazing relationships that I’ve been able to build with children, as well as helping them to learn. Outside of preschool, I like to do all things creative; from drawing and painting to embroidery and crafting while watching my favourite TV Shows.
Shayna Dixon
I am one of the Kaiako at Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre. I have been a teacher for the last seven years, completing my Bachelor of Education(ECE) in 2021. I’ve had over 11 years of experience working with children through other areas of education, such as Teaching children to swim, after-school care, and Camp Counselling in America. I’ve recently spent the last two years working in Germany as an English Educator in a bilingual Kita.
These experiences have helped to shape my beliefs and values around NZ Education. I believe that every child is an individual and should be treated as one while uplifting their own culture and identity. My goal is to ensure each child has fun learning, grows beautiful friendships and becomes a confident learner who is a part of their community.
I have recently moved to Christchurch but my home town is Palmerston North. In my free time, I enjoy going on walks, exploring nature and travelling.
I look forward to being a part of your Tamaiti journey!
Nevaeh Barnes
Kia Ora, my name is Nevaeh and I am a relief teacher at Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Criminal Justice at the University of Canterbury and work at Pīwakawaka on my days off. I love helping out around the centre and spending time with the children building strong individual connections. In my spare time I volunteer for St John doing the therapy pet work and also rehoming greyhounds. I look forward to seeing you around the centre!
