Naomi Centre Manager
I joined the Footsteps team as manager in 2018.
I have a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning from Canterbury University. I have been teaching in the early childhood sector for over 20 years, during that time I have worked in six different centres around Canterbury, this has given me a wealth of knowledge and understanding of Early Childhood Education.
I absolutely love being involved in Christian education, it is such a privilege to be able to share Jesus with our children here at Footsteps. On a personal note, I am wife to Arron and Mum to our two children Emily and Ashton.
Jen Office Manager
I joined Footsteps in 2004 after a career in accounting, office and property management in the building industry. During that time I also managed a number of educational charitable trusts.
My task at Footsteps is to oversee the business, finance and admin; assuring we have the ability to keep our centre well resourced.
Hannah Staff Support
I started at Footsteps nine years ago. My role is to ensure the kitchen and laundry are kept clean and tidy. I enjoy being involved with the children’s play, especially the playdough table and participating at mat-times. During my spare time I like going to the gym and being a member of the ‘Up’ club.
Kaylene Teacher
I have been in Early Childhood Education for ten years and have been working with the Footsteps team since June 2021. I love working with children and helping them to grow in their capabilities. I have two young children of my own and have always had a strong interest in child brain development in the early years.
Tania Teacher
Hi, I'm Tania. I'm a mum to three busy kids, two of whom attended Footsteps, which is where my journey here began. I first joined the centre as a reliever and then went on to study my Level 5 Diploma through Vision College. I love working in a Christian preschool where I can share my faith, build relationships, and care for our tamariki as they grow, learn, and flourish.
Anna Teacher
Hello I'm Annalise (Anna).
My 3 children came through Footsteps and are now young adults. It was here that I discovered my joy for early childhood education. I went back to tertiary education in my early 40's and am now a fully qualified teaher.
I love to watch the children grow through their experiences here. I am seeing the positive influence that Christian education has on the children and their families. I am so privileged to be a part of their learning experience and to be a part of the Footsteps team.
Kaylene Teacher
I have been in Early Childhood Education since 2011 and have been working with the Footsteps team since June 2021. I love working with children and helping them to grow in their capabilities. I have two young children of my own and have always had a strong interest in child brain development in the early years.
Zchde Teacher
I am a wife and the mother of two beautiful children, both of whom have attended Footsteps. My four siblings also attended footsteps. I discovered my passion for early childhood education when I began relief work in 2022, and I am curently completing my Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, which I finish at the end of 2026. Footsteps has been a true blessing to both me and my family. I value being part of a supportive and dedicated team, and take great pleasure in nurturing and supporting children's learning and play.
Mel Teacher
I became a part of the Footsteps Whanau in 2023 after changing direction and spending 15 years homeschooling our children.
Previously, I graduated with a dip.tch.ece in 2001 and taught as a registered teacher in childcare, Kindergarten and homebased care.
I am passionate about Christian education and absolutely love serving you all in theis role.
Jenny Teacher
Hi I am Jenny. I have been teaching since 2005, after completing four years of study in Early Childhood Education. My heart has always been in connecting with each child as an individual. Getting to know who they are, what they need, and how they learn best is my main focus. I believe children thrive when they feel loved, safe and truly seen, and I work hard to create that kind of environment everyday. When those foundations are in place, confidence grows, curiosity sparks and that's when meaningful learning can truly begin.
Maddie Teacher
Hi, I'm Madeline! I joined the team in 2023 and feel so lucky to be part of such a special environment for children and whanau. I'm a proud mum to three boys, so I understand how important it is for children to feel safe, supported, and genuinely cared for while they learn and grow.
I bring lots of energy, creativity, and enthusiasm into each day, and I love creating fun, engaging experiences that encourage children to explore, imagine, and build confidence. Building strong connections with children and families is something I really value, and it is such a privilege to watch tamariki grow, develop, and reach new milestones along the way.
All four of my children have been a part of the Footsteps family. The teachers greet you with love and enthusiasm. They take the time to know each family and assist the parents in any way they can, whether it is behavioural or social assistance the child may need, they do it with love and guidance.The atmosphere is joyful and calm, they teach the children how to live like Christ and the teachers show it daily in their own interactions with the children. I would highly recommend this preschool for your child!
Clarke FamilyOver the last 4 years we have had the pleasure of sending two of our children to Footsteps Christian Community Preschool. We love every aspect of this wonderful preschool. The staff are always so welcoming and caring toward our children, from day one there has been a deep sense of belonging and lovely relationships formed with all staff members. We are a Christian family and love how our faith is embraced in the everyday teachings and the impact it has on our children, I felt Footsteps helped build the foundations of their faith alongside our family input. Our time at Footsteps will always be treasured!
Smith FamilyWe love Footsteps Christian Community Preschool. We love that they provide a quality Christian focussed education for our little ones. We love that the beliefs of our home environment can seamlessly carry through to our children's early childhood education. The staff and teachers are amazing, caring about our children as if they are their own, and making wonderful bonds with them. We love the great spaces and resources they have available, especially the four year old programme to prepare the children for school. The best part is how much our kids love going to preschool!
Bates FamilyComing from an ECE background myself I was super fussy in what I wanted for our two boys. We have been so impressed by the quality of care and education Footsteps provides. The biggest thing that stood out to us when looking was the length of time the amazing staff have been there for, that speaks volumes in the type of environment it is. We are so blessed to be apart of the family!
van der Bel Family