The Kitchener Road Team
This is our team of teachers and staff at Educare Kitchener Road. Scroll through to find out more about our teaching team.
Paula Hutching
Centre Manager
I was born in West Auckland but moved to Pukekohe when I was two, and I've spent the majority of my life in the Franklin area. My passion for teaching began when I volunteered at my children’s kindergartens and schools, which led me to pursue a career in education in 2014. I truly believe that every child has incredible potential, and I strive to create a learning environment where all tamariki feel empowered to achieve whatever they set their minds to.
Outside of teaching, I have two adult children and am an avid classic car enthusiast. I love spending time outdoors, exploring the beauty of Aotearoa, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside passionate educators and amazing young learners every day.
Jessica Finau-Baas
Registered Teacher
Hi my name is Jessica Finau-Baas, but I am known as Jess. I am half European/Tongan and can speak Tongan fluently. I am married and have two girls, Amaya and Kalea.
I graduated from Auckland University of Technology with a Bachelor of Early Childhood Teaching, which covered both Montessori and mainstream education as well. I have 16 years experience teaching in Early Childhood and I have worked with all ages, but I am passionate and love working with babies.
Richa Sharma
Registered Teacher
I am Richa Sharma and I have been teaching for the last fifteen years. I have a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Post Graduate Diploma in Education. Also, I have a Bachelor of Education (from India).
My mother was a teacher and has been teaching throughout her life for over 35 years (now retired). Since childhood I have been watching her and that’s how I made my decision to have a career in teaching.
For me, working with children constantly reminds me to enjoy life's simple pleasures and it’s always good to take risks and try something new, have fun and not worry about what others think of you.
I love working with young people and a smile of their face always make my day.
Christa Mulder
Registered Teacher
Kia Ora,
I began teaching in 2008 and I absolutely love working with young children. I am happily married to my husband Johan and are blessed with three children, a son- in-law and two granddaughters who mean the world to me.
I enjoy long walks along the beach as well as reading, painting, getting my hands dirty when nurturing my garden.
I am passionate about providing a safe, fun, challenging and happy environment that will encourage your child to grow and develop into an inquisitive, competent lifelong learner.
Christianne Lamb-Livesey
Teacher in Training
My Name is Christianne Lamb-Livesey (call me Christi) and I emigrated from England in 2005. I have 3 sons and 1 daughter who keep me busy.
I love travelling, experiencing new things and meeting new people.
In my spare time I love spending time with my family, watching my children play sport and going to the beach.
Im currently studying towards my Bach of ECE at NZTC. I worked in ECE in England and a few years ago decided to pursue a career in a field Iove.
I love being a part of children's learning and development and interacting and forming relationships with them and their families - and going home covered in paint, glue and sand, that always puts a smile on my face.
Kellie Paul
Nutritionist
Kia Ora I’m Kellie, he proud mum of 2 grown sons and 5 step children, with my husband Anthony. We have 18 grandchildren in total so I’m totally within my element amongst a busy centre.
For my quiet or down time I love any form of motorsport (the louder the better), Baking, walks on the beach and listening to music, but most precious of all is spending time with my Husband and whānau.
We recently moved to Waiuku from the Waikatio and I have to say it is a move I don’t regret.
Margaret May
Administrator
Hi, my name is Margaret May, I have been working as an Administrator in the ECE sector since 2016. I’m enjoying being an integral part of the Educare Kitchener Road team.
My husband and I have recently moved to Patumahoe. We have 2 adult children, our son is an Electrician and our daughter is a Qualified ECE Teacher.
I love spending time in the outdoors, gardening, boating, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
