Staff at Helensvale Little Gems Child Care
Nicole – Nominated Supervisor – In Child Care Since 2001 – Diploma Qualified
Hi my name is Nicole and I am so excited to be sharing your child’s early learning journey with you. I have worked in the Early Childhood sector for over 20 years and hold a Diploma of Children’s services. I have a strong interest in inclusion for all children of all abilities. As a Mum to three amazing children I understand all too well just how important high quality education and care for your special little person is to you. As your Centre Director I truly believe that relationships are key and to establish these strong and trusting relationships communication is vital. Early childhood education is not just my profession, it is my passion!
Kellie – Area Manager – In Child Care Since 2001 – Bachelor of Early Childhood
Hi! My name is Kellie and I just wanted to say a big hello, I am the Area Manager for Little Gems and I wanted to share a bit about myself and my family with you all. I am married and have two boys. I have worked in the Early Childhood profession for the past 23 years (now I’m feeling old!) and have loved every minute of it. I started out as a trainee in 2001 and have worked through my diploma and then I completed my Bachelor of Early Childhood in 2014. My passion is building relationships with families, our community, our wonderful educators and of course all your precious little people! Please never hesitate to come and see me at any time you need! I am looking forward to getting to know you all and working in partnership with you to ensure your children feel safe secure and supported in their environment and in their learning.
Caterpillars Room – 6 weeks to 15 months
Tahnee – Lead Educator – In Child Care Since 2015 – Diploma Qualified
Hello to all the Little Gems families. My name is Miss Tahnee and I am a lead educator here at Little Gems. I believe that every child deserves the best possible start to life by growing and learning in a loving, safe and secure environment. I am very much looking forward to getting to know all the children within my care as well as their loved ones and to be a reliable, trustworthy and honest educator whilst providing the best possible care and education to your children. A little about me: I am originally from Victoria but grew up on the Gold Coast. I thoroughly enjoy anything classic such as cars & music. I am quite an artistic and active person and love an adrenaline rush. Outside of work, you will find me either outdoors staying active, enjoying hinterland motorbike rides or doing arts and craft / baking.
Sophie L – Educator – In Child Care Since 2016- Diploma Qualified
Hello everyone! My name is Sophie and I am so happy to be a part of the Little Gems Family. I am so happy to be a part of your little one’s childcare journey! I absolutely love the relationships I have built with the children and families at Little Gems. I currently have my Diploma of early childhood education and care and have been in the sector since 2016. In my free time I love reading, going on walks with my dog and spending time with my family.
Lady Bugs Room – 15 months to 2 Years
Emma- Educational Leader/Lead Educator – In Child Care Since 2008 – Diploma Qualified
Hi!! I am Emma, a seasoned and deeply passionate Early Childhood Educator with over 12 years of practical industry experience, and a wealth of current, innovative and holistic knowledge I have gained through consistently pursuing education, professional development and ongoing personal research.
I am also strongly influenced by the principles of the Montessori theory, and the theories of Malaguzzi and Piaget, celebrating the notion that children are capable autonomous beings, who deserve respect and autonomy as a valued learning community member.
I look forward to meeting you!
Ella – Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III
Hi my name is Ella! I have just graduated high school and am starting my journey at Little Gems this year! I will also be completing my certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care. I love dancing and hanging out with my friends on the weekend. I am super excited about being at Little Gems as I love children and watching them have fun and laugh and helping them grow.
Fireflies – 2 Years to 3 Years
Sophie – Educator – In Child Care Since 2015 – Certificate III Qualified/Studying Diploma
Hi! My name is Sophie! I love what I do and look forward to teaching children new things and watching them grow. I have a special interest in child psychology and would love to further my studies in this area. Originally from NSW, moved to the Gold Coast for a new start. I love what I do look forward to meeting you all soon!
Tamieka – Educator – In Child Care Since 2017 – Diploma Qualified
Hello. My Name is Tamieka but everyone calls me Mieka. I’m a mother to a beautiful baby girl. I have been working in Early Childhood education and for Little Gems since 2017. I hold my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, I’m also I certified practitioner in 3a (Abecedarian Approach Australia). My favourite activities to do with the children is spending quality one on one time engaging in conversational reading, fun learning games, singing, dancing and messy play. Having the opportunity to watch the children learn and grow is one of the best parts of my job.
Bumble Bees – 2 Years to 3 Years
Charmaine – Lead Educator – In Child Care Since 2018 – Diploma Qualified
Hi! My name is Charmaine, I am Diploma qualified in Early Childhood Education. I am married and have 3 beautiful children who are aged 10, 15 and 20. I love spending time with my family as my family is very important to me. I am really excited about building relationships with all your children and with you as well!! I believe relationships are the basis of all we do in Early childhood. My love of watching children grow and develop lead me to start my study.
Emme – Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III
Hi! My name is Emme. I am passionate about working with children. Previously I worked with older children in Out of school hours care. I am excited to progress my knowledge and build a carer in early childhood Education. I recently moved from Darwin and look forward to new and exciting adventures here on the Gold Coast.
Hayley – Educator – In Child Care Since 2019 – Certificate III in Early Childhood Services Qualified
A big hello to all our families! My name is Hayley and I started my childcare journey whilst I was at school when I completed my Certificate 3 in 2018. Once I graduated school I knew I wanted to continue working in Early Childhood as I am passionate about being able to support children to learn and grow. It is a very special privilege to be able to watch children blossom and to be able to guide them through their early childhood journey. In my spare time I love to spend time at home with my family watching movies!! I look forward to getting to know you and your children!
Butterflies Room – 2.5 years to 3.11 Years
Kellie – Educator – In Child Care Since 2003 – Diploma Qualified
Hello, My name is Kellie. I have been an Early Childhood Educator since 2003. My career started when my children were young. I wanted to spend as much time as possible with them but also pursue a fulfilling career. Working in Early Childhood, I have come to know that children learn by observing, listening, exploring, experimenting and asking questions. This is why I believe it is important to encourage and support children’s curiosities, problem solving skills, persistence and resilience. Through sensory experiences children develop their language skills, fine and gross motor skills, cognitive growth and social skills. Sensory play also encourages experimentation. Through offering a variety of experiences and scaffolding on children’s interests, children will develop new strengths and interests that will broaden his or her understanding of the world. All of these things make up my practice and I hope to create an environment that all of the children in my care feel is a “Home away from Home.”
Layne- Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)
Hi I’m Layne. I graduated high school in 2020 with the intention of becoming a lawyer but quickly found that wasn’t my passion. After I Graduated I travelled around Australia until I finally realised I wanted to be a primary school teacher and here I am today studying a bachelor of education and working here with the Little Gems Family! I look forward to meeting you all.
Dragonflies – 2.5 Years to 4 Years
Shell – Lead Educator – In Child Care Since 2003 – Diploma Qualified
I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself, I’m Michelle but I prefer to be called Shell. I have worked in the early childhood sector for the past 21 years and have two boys of my own, Eli 13 and Dex 12, My husband Simon and I have been married for 14 years and together for 16years. On the weekend I enjoy going shopping, watching my boys play sport, going to the movies and going out for dinner with family and friends and Sunday night is always family dinner night.
I’m really looking forward to meeting you soon!
Isabella – Educator – In Child Care Since 2024 – Studying Certificate III
A big hello to all our families! I’m Isabella but all my family and friends call me Bella. I am currently studying my certificate III in childcare. I have always had a passion for working with children as I have been brought up as an oldest child of 2 siblings who are much younger than me. I started babysitting when I was 14 and fell in love with it then and have started my career now and I am so passionate about it. I am so excited to be working with the Little Gems Family and getting to know all your beautiful children and helping them grow every day. Can’t wait to see all your smiley faces!
Tammy- Educator – In Child Care Since 2014 – Certificate III Qualified/Studying Diploma
Hi my name is Tammy. I completed my certificate III in 2014. I worked in childcare for a few years until I had my boys and took some time off work to be a Mum. I have been a parent here at Little Gems for the past 5 years as my boys attended Little Gems since the babies room. I am so excited to help teach and be a part of your child’s learning journey. I look forward to meeting all of you!
Grasshoppers – 4 Years to 5 Years
Nikki – Early Childhood Teacher- In Child Care Since 2012 – Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Teaching Qualified/Diploma Qualified
Hello. My name is Nikki, I am a Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Teaching qualified Early Childhood Teacher. My passion is early Childhood Education. I have worked across all age groups and look forward to sharing your child’s learning journey. I am a Mum to 2 beautiful boys both growing up and living their best life! My hobbies include reading, coffee but most importantly spending time with my family. I am very lucky to be a part of the Little Gems family and look forward getting to know you and your children.
Jenna – Early Childhood Teacher – In Child Care Since 2016 – Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)
My name is Jenna and I have been working within the childcare and education system since 2016. I hold a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) and I am a mother of two beautiful boys aged 8 and 5. I look forward to creating a safe, secure and inclusive environment for children to learn and thrive. I also look forward to creating supportive and respectful relationships with the parents and children within the Caterpillar room and the Little Gems community. I am excited to become a member of the Little Gems team.
Hannah – Educator – In Child Care Since 2022 – Certificate III Qualified/Studying Diploma
Hi, my name is Hannah! I am one of the educators at the centre, recently graduating from high school in 2021. I am currently studying my Diploma in Early Childhood. When I turned 12, I started assistant teaching at my Dance Studio. This is where I discovered my passion and love for working with my younger students. I believe that all the children should build a safe, supportive and bubbly relationship with their educators. I am super excited to be part of the Little Gems family and look forward to getting to know all of the wonderful families.
Ella – Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III
Hi. I’m Ella. I’m studying my Cert III in Early Childhood Education and Care. It’s always been my passion to work with children. I love creating bonds with each child and their families. I’m looking forward to meeting you soon!
Centre Support Educators
Hadleigh – Educator – In Child Care Since 2021 – Certificate III Qualified
Samantha – Educator – In Child Care Since 2005 – Certificate III Qualified
Hi Families, my name is Samantha. I hold my Certificate 3 in Early Childhood and have recently re-joined the Early childhood sector after owning and operating a local shop for the past few years. At home I am Mum to my teenage daughter and we love travelling around the globe together. I look forward to gtting to know all of the children and families at Little Gems!
Tarla – Educator School Based Trainee – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III
Hi, my name is Tarla. I am currently studying my Cert III in Early Childhood Education and Care. I am super excited to meet all the beautiful families and educators here at Little Gems.
Gemma – Educator School Based Trainee – In Child Care Since 2024 – Studying Certificate III
Hi, my name is Gemma. I am studying a school based traineeship. I am looking forward to meeting everyone and getting to know the children. I love dancing and going to the beach in my free time. I have 3 older brothers and love spending time with my family. I am also lucky enough to have 7 younger cousins that I love looking after and spending time with.
Paige – Educator School Based Trainee – In Child Care Since 2024 – Studying Certificate III
Hi! My name is Paige and I am studying Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. I am so excited to start my early childhood journey at Little Gems. I come from a large family and I have always enjoyed helping to care for my younger cousins. In my spare time you will either find me in the dance studio, on the beach or shopping!
Tayla – Educator – In Child Care Since 2024 – Studying Certificate III
Hi! I am Tayla, and I’m all about enjoying life’s little pleasures and enjoying every moment. I cherish the little things in life, like basking in the sun, enjoying delicious smashed avocado, & spending time with my loved ones. My passion is to inspire others & spreading kindness wherever I go, and always striving to be my best self. Life is too short not to enjoy every bit of it, and I’m here to make the most of every opportunity and spread that positive energy to those around me!
Jayde – Educator – In Child Care Since 2020 – Certificate III Qualified
Hi, my name is Jayde, I hold my Certificate III in Early Childhood. I have had a passion for working with children since I started babysitting at 14. I moved from South Africa at the end of year 11 and became a nanny once I left high school. The love I have for children grows everyday. On the weekends that I don’t babysit I am hanging out with my friends and family, going to the beach, Sushi Train or reading fictional books. I am so excited to be a part of the Little Gems family.
Kirk- Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Diploma/Certificate III Qualified
My name is Kirk. I am a licensed professional teacher in the Philippines and have worked in a child care centre since July 2023. Have taught family day care in Philippines too. I look forward to meeting you all soon!
Leah – Educator – In Child Care Since 2024 – Studying Certificate III
Hi! My name is Leah and I’m excited to be part of Little Gems childcare. I grew up in a large family and I’ve always been the babysitter for families and friends. I love being around children and I am passionate about making a positive impact on children’s lives. I have worked with children in the past and I am very excited about this next chapter in life. In my free time I love spending quality time with my family, having a picnic at the beach or going on a hike. As a mother of two I know how important it is to you that your child is loved and well cared for and I can’t wait to meet you and your little one.
Hannah – Educator – In Child Care Since 2021 – Diploma Qualified
Hi, I’m Hannah and I’m thrilled to be one of the Educators here at Little Gems. I’m passionate about fostering a love for learning and creating memorable experiences for your little ones. Let’s work together to make every day full of fun, exploration, and growth!”
Hannah M – Educator School Based Trainee – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III
Hi, my name is Hannah.
Carolina – Educator – In Child Care Since 2022 – Studying Certificate III – Maternity Leave
Hi everyone my name is Carolina, I’m from Brazil and I moved to Australia in 2017. I came to improve my English and ended up meeting my partner and we formed a beautiful family, I’m a mother to a little boy and currently pregnant with another boy. When my son began childcare I got to learn about the childcare world and ended up falling in love with it! I decided to go for it, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made! I’m currently studying and am due to finish my Certificate III in August and of course start my Diploma as soon as I can.