Our Team
Our most valuable resource are our passionate and highly qualified educators. Their exceptional skills and dedication create a happy and fulfilling environment for all children. Each of our team members bring their own unique ideas and enthusiasm to BCCC, providing the children with an enriching program in all areas of their interest and development.
Kerry
Director, Bachelor of Early Childhood Teaching (0-8)
I have 40 years experience working with children of all ages. I have been the Director of BCCC since March 2007 .
I am passionate about Early Childhood Education as I love being a part of children’s wonder and excitement as they discover, explore and create their world.
I understand the importance of team work, recognising strengths in others and ensuring enough access to resources to create rich vibrant environments that support learning
Lucy
Office Manager, Bachelor of Business, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
I have worked at BCCC for over 2 years, but my ties to the Centre start from when I attended the Centre as a child, and through the years with my two boys attending the centre. I went back to University to study social work at the start of 2022 and decided to change occupations to make the work/study/mum life balance more manageable. I am grateful that I have been able to job share the role in the office with Trish. I enjoy spending time in the rooms with the children from time to time, but also helping families with any queries they have in regards to their child’s care or accounts, as well as managing the administration side of the business.
Trish
Office Manager, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
I started working in the office at BCCC in 1996, with my daughter attending the centre at the same time. In 2004 I decided to have a break before returning again in 2010, and have been here since.
I have enjoyed getting to know children and their families over the years and working alongside a great team of educators in a beautiful setting.
Vicki
Educational Leader, Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education)
Vicki is a dynamic and fun-loving leader with a passion for education, leadership, and professional growth. Beginning her Early Childhood Education career in 1989, she earned a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) and was later selected for the Pedagogy Advisory Team for Education Queensland, showcasing her expertise in curriculum and leadership.
Her career spans roles such as Early Childhood Pedagogy Advisor (overseeing 14 preschools), Trainer and Assessor, Advisory Visiting Teacher, Nominated Supervisor, Educational Leader, and Quality Manager. She was also recognised with a Gold LearnX Asia Pacific Award for Best Training Manager in eLearning.
Beyond education, Vicki is an Author, Leadership Development Coach, and skilled Mediator. She also served as President of the Mullumbimby and District Neighbourhood Centre, leading through COVID-19 and the 2022 floods. A dedicated change agent, she thrives in environments that inspire collaboration, growth, and excellence.
Fiona
Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood), Certificate in Childcare, Associate Diploma in Social Science (Child Studies), Certificate in Professional Children’s Writing, Graduate Diploma in Local, Family and Applied History
I have 30 years experience, with 28 of these at BCCC.
I love building trusting relationships with children and their families, helping children to build their confidence while learning and exploring new things. I enjoy teaching children through storytelling.
I am passionate about genealogy, history and visiting historic sites. I also keep busy on the farm looking after horses, cows, chooks, budgies, dogs and cats!
Tracey
Bachelor of Education (Primary), Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood
I have worked at BCCC since 2008.
I have always been interested in child development, particularly the unique qualities each child inhibits. I am compassionate and empathetic in my approach to engaging with children, and conscious of catering to the diverse needs of children I have the privilege to work with.
I love keeping active, training at the gym and spending time with my family.
Kimberley
Diploma of Early Childhood
I love to be able to collaborate with families to recognise children's strengths and to work together to build on children's interests. I really enjoy providing sensory experiences where I can explore with the children and share in their learning, wonder and joy.
Nina
Certificate III in Children's Services, Teachers assistant
I am passionate about supporting children's holistic development and wellbeing. I offer yoga and meditation techniques that connect the mind, body and soul, infusing a sense of calm and peace in the children and their learning environment. This enriches their ability to focus and learn.
My gentle, soft nurturing nature guides the children in developing positive dispositions for learning such as patience, empathy and curiosity. My healthy lifestyle gently influences children to bring balance to each day.
Deborah
Diploma in Children’s Services
I have worked at BCCC for around 24 years, undertaking my study to become an educator as a mature-age student. I have also worked picking avocado’s at Coopers Lane, Share & Care Nursery, Lois Lane Shoes and at the Great Northern Hotel as an entrée chef.
I love to create aesthetically pleasing, thought provoking scenarios and environments to involve and encourage children to build upon it. To inspire and nurture the child’s mind to its potential.
Debby
Diploma of Early Childhood Education & Care
Hello! I'm Deborah, and I hail from Canada, but my passion for early childhood education truly blossomed here in Australia. It brings me great joy to see children light up as they accomplish challenging tasks and navigate the adventures life brings. My goal is to create a positive and inviting atmosphere where children feel safe, secure, and supported. I especially love fostering holistic learning opportunities and encouraging open-ended play where imagination can flourish. Let's work together to support your child's exciting journey of learning and discovery.
Angela
Certificate III in Community Services (Children’s Services)
Angela has been working at BCCC for 19 years and has experience working with all age groups. Ange loves working with children, she has a kind and generous nature, and is often sought out by the children for cuddles and comfort.
Ange enjoys collecting children’s books and reading them to the children, often purposely extending on interests or themes the children may have expressed. Ange enjoys planning activities for the children; including engaging them in fun movement, parachute and beanbag games and sandcastle volcano’s!
In her spare time, Ange enjoys baking and reading.
Lou
Certificate III in Children’s Services
Lou brings over 30 years of experience in early childhood education and care, driven by a genuine passion for sparking curiosity and building meaningful relationships with children and their families.
Her career has spanned a variety of roles, including 12 years with Community Services across Pittwater and Warringah Councils. For 3 years, Lou also ran her own business recruiting and managing staff for new home cleaning, and for a decade, proudly served with Fire & Rescue NSW at Bangalow Station 213, where she was also appointed as a Peer Support Officer.
With a creative flair and a strong understanding of child development, Lou integrates her love of art and her expertise in gross motor skill development to support children in building confidence, coordination, and a positive sense of self.
Outside of her work, Lou enjoys spending time at the beach and cherishes every moment with her three children and five grandchildren. She also has a great love for travel and adventure, always eager to explore new places and experiences.
Helen
Master Of Education, Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Studies), International - Diploma in Montessori Pedagogy, Diploma in Nursery Nursing
I have 30 years experience working with children, with almost 10 of these at BCCC.
I love children’s natural curiosity and creativity and enjoy providing opportunities for children to play, explore, experiment and discover. I enjoy making connections with children, their families and the community.
I have a lot of knowledge, training and experience in working with children with additional needs and am passionate about helping children to develop their emotional intelligence, social skills and resilience. I take pride in introducing and practising different meditation, mindfulness and breathing techniques for children to use in their daily lives.
Jag
Certificate III in Children’s Services
I have 12 years experience working in Early Childhood Education, with 9 of those being at the wonderful BCCC.
I bring positivity and joy to my workplace, and I love learning alongside the children, sharing our knowledge together- you can learn a lot from children. I am particularly interested in indigenous culture, nature and the earth and our connection with it, and love sharing these interests with the children. You will often see me with a bunch of little gardeners at the vegetable patch, or collecting sticks to whittle into various creations!
My interests include surfing, gardening, psychology through astrology.
Breanna
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Education (Primary/Early Childhood)
I have been working in the education profession as a casual primary school teacher for 2 years, and in early childhood education at BCCC for the past 18 months.
I love working with young children and enjoy observing how they interact with the world around them. Each day is exciting and I love creating new learning opportunities for the children to explore their natural curiosity and wonder.
I am passionate about educating children through art, music and imaginative play experiences. I believe that I am a positive, warm and nurturing person and I strive to build secure and trusting relationships with children and their families. When I am not at work I enjoy travelling, pilates, cooking, and spending time with my family and friends.
Rachel
Certificate III in Children’s Services
With over 15 years of experience in early childhood education, Rachel is deeply passionate about play-based learning and creating environments where every child can thrive.
Rachel has volunteered with the Tong-Len Charitable Trust in Northern India, collaborating with Tibetan monks to deliver training packs for remote schools. Her work helped support vulnerable children’s access to education and wellbeing, reflecting her commitment to making a difference both locally and globally.
Outside of work, Rachel enjoys hiking, swimming, yoga, and cooking. She’s currently mastering the art of Indian curries from scratch!
At our centre, Rachel brings warmth, dedication, and a genuine passion for children’s wellbeing. She is excited to nurture every child’s unique learning journey through curiosity, play, and connection.
Natalia
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
Natalia has been working in early childhood education for 2 years and is passionate about understanding children’s play, the way they communicate their understanding of the World, and creating simple, organised and thoughtful learning environments.
Natalia brings experience from Argentina, New Zealand, and Australia. She enjoys bringing her authentic self and working alongside a team that truly cares.
Outside of work, Natalia loves skiing, hiking (anything related to mountains), cooking, being alone, spending quality time with friends and visiting family in Bundaberg.
At our centre, Natalia brings leadership skills, patience, honesty and creativity and is excited to support every child’s learning journey.
Russell
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) (Studying)
For Russell, working with children is about building strong relationships and encouraging confidence. With many years of personal experience raising his own children, and inspired by the support of those around him, Russell decided to pursue teaching qualifications. Now nearing the end of his studies, he manages the full-time juggle of work, study, and family life — all while keeping children’s growth and wellbeing at the centre.
Russell has a particular passion for supporting children through nature play and has a strong interest in bush kindy. He believes social and emotional learning is essential and enjoys weaving literacy skills into everyday play experiences in meaningful ways.
Outside of the centre, Russell’s weekends might find him driving to Sydney if a good band is in town. At home, he is always busy on his property — mowing lawns, chain sawing trees, tinkering with his car, or riding his motorbike. He also loves spending time with his dogs and chickens.
Russell is excited to be part of our team and looks forward to helping create a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to learn.
Marlene
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)
Marlene has been part of the early childhood education sector since 1998 and is passionate about providing children with play-based programs that recognizes each child’s current strengths whilst supporting their emerging needs. She has a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood and Diploma in Fine arts.
Her teaching roles have included working in Early Education and Care (0-5yrs), Out of Hours School Care (6-12yrs) and in disability specific vacation care programs for children with additional needs. Other roles have included working as an NDIS family support worker and working for NSW Inclusion Agency as an Inclusion Professional providing direct inclusion-based mentoring and coaching to educators. More recently Marlene worked as a trainer and assessor supporting students attaining their cert III and diploma in the Early Childhood Education and Care profession.
Marlene values an unhurried teaching approach that follows the child’s lead, upholds their sense of belonging whilst fostering their future development. She is committed towards ensuring children get what they need in order to succeed, celebrating their unique self, nurturing their sense of agency, advocating for children's voices whilst supporting and respecting families in their role as child's 1st teacher, seeking to establish genuine connections with children and their families.
Outside the centre, Marlene loves spending time exploring the outdoors with her partner and their cattle dog Angus. She also enjoys practicing Muay Thai martial arts.
Rochelle
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
I finished my certificate in 2022 and have been working at BCCC since 2020. My family and I moved to the Byron shire 8 years ago from Sydney. My youngest daughter, Lola spent two years at BCCC before starting at Bangalow Public. I was drawn to the centre as it seemed like such a nice environment to work in, and I love children so making a career change made sense.
Monica
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care (Studying)
With 17 years of experience in retail management, I am excited to be transitioning into Early Childhood at BCCC. As a mother of two young boys, I am deeply passionate about child development and fostering nurturing, gentle environments where children feel safe, valued, and supported.
I am eager to contribute to the growth and wellbeing of the children at BCCC and look forward to being a calm, caring presence in their daily lives. I value health and wellbeing, kindness, integrity, and presence, and I strive to embody these values in my interactions with both children and colleagues.
Outside of work, I enjoy bushwalking, camping, and exploring the Northern Rivers with my family of four.
Cecile
Diploma of Early Childhood Education & Care
I have been a part of the industry for over 5 years. During this time, I have worked in a boutique childcare centre, nannied for various families and volunteered in orphanages and schools in Tanzania. I love that children are so present, honest and unconditionally themselves. Their sense of wonder, unique perspective of the world and ability to recognise the magic in the little things continues to amaze me everyday. I am very passionate about play-based learning and embedding nature and its special elements within learning spaces and environments.
When I’m not at work, you’ll find me going for a dip in the ocean, strolling through the Mullum farmers market or enjoying the sunset alongside my family and friends.
Moka
Diploma of Children’s Services
Moka has been working in early childhood education since 2011 and brings creativity, and joy to her work with children. Born in Japan, she completed a degree in Psychology before spending time in the United States and Canada, where she worked and volunteered in schools and early learning settings, and discovered a love of making great coffee as a barista!
Since moving to Australia in 2010, Moka has completed her Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and worked as a Room Leader in Sydney before moving to Byron Bay and joining Bangalow Community Children’s Centre in 2022. She enjoys working across all age groups and draws inspiration from her Japanese heritage and love of nature, embracing play-based and nature-based learning.
Outside of work, Moka loves walking on the beach, painting with watercolours, sharing coffee with friends, and exploring great food. She brings connection and joy to every child and team she works with.
Tara
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
I am dedicated to providing high quality care that is respectful & positive, so that children feel safe, secure & supported. I am passionate about play-based learning, & endlessly fascinated by the ways in which children respond to their world, seeking out challenges and opportunities to learn. I strive to be a careful observer of this learning as it unfolds, so that I may support its continuation in ways that are meaningful to each individual child.
Michael
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care (currently studying)
Michael graduated from the Lismore Conservatorium in 2008, then taught drama at the Con. In 2016 he went to the UK to study Directing at LAMDA.
Michael is also a professional performer, writer and director having worked in Stage, TV and Film. In 2009 he moved to Hong Kong and during that time appeared on stage in Hamlet, Les Miserables and A Christmas Carol. On TV he played the role of Johann Sebastian Bach in All About Music-Bach and composed two original musicals, one that was taken to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the other was staged with The City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong.
Michael is committed to unleashing Children's creativity and believes that drama can help anyone and everyone.
Brianna
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care (currently studying)
Bri has been part of the early childhood education sector since 2021, working in a centre in Melbourne to now working at BCCC. Brianna has a strong passion for helping children grow, learn, and reach their fullest potentials.
She has experience working in kindergartens, early learning centres, and supporting children with diverse needs. Brianna especially enjoys bringing her love for nature and the outdoors into her daily work, encouraging children to explore, stay active, and develop a sense of curiosity.
Outside the centre, Brianna loves surfing, the outdoors, camping, painting and staying active in the outdoors.
At our centre, Brianna is excited to create nurturing spaces where children feel supported, confident, and inspired to grow.
Alice
Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching (currently studying)
have worked at BCCC since February 2025. Prior experience working with children includes educational wildlife holiday programs for 5 to 8-year-olds.
I am passionate about experiential and holistic learning, especially through nature and creative arts. My teaching practice is informed by studies of yoga (YTT 200hr) and Gestalt therapy (GradCert), and my background in modern languages (Spanish and Portuguese), social documentary filmmaking and Equine Facilitated Learning. I am particularly interested in children’s socio-emotional wellbeing and supporting the development of positive relational and communication skills. I believe we all have so much to learn from each other.
Outside work I love immersing myself in creative projects, hikes, dance and music-making.
Carrie
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
I began working at BCCC in mid-2025. Before having my children, I spent a few wonderful years as an educator at a beautiful, small preschool in Manly.
There is nothing more wondrous than the mind of a young child. To witness, nurture, and protect this stage of development is truly an honour. Being in a position to make a meaningful impact on a child’s growth is incredibly fulfilling, and the fresh perspective I gain from seeing the world through their eyes is second to none. I take great pride in my nurturing nature and bring a calm, gentle presence to my role—qualities that I believe help create a warm and supportive environment for the children in my care.
Outside of work, I love taking my children to the beach to swim, play, and try our luck with a bit of fishing. More often than not, you'll find me in the kitchen baking cakes, cookies, and all things delicious.
Yaya
Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching (currently studying)
Yaya is passionate about helping children learn, grow, and express themselves through play and the arts. She has worked with children in France, Corsica, and Ireland, and believes in the power of creativity to support children’s wellbeing and development. With a background in sound art and international recognition for her work, Yaya brings a unique blend of creativity, care, and experience to our centre.
Tina
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
I have worked in early childhood for over 10 years. I have 2 beautiful sons of my own who are adults now.
I love my job at Bangalow community children's centre and I aim to make trusting and respectful connections with the children and making a difference in their lives everyday. I have a holistic approach and I am passionate about children's health and physical development.
I make fun and engaging learning through Play experiences including creative art and outdoor explorations. I am very funny and enthusiastic and we have a great time every day together. I love playing my guitar and encouraging the children to sing and enjoy music.
Outside the centre I love music and playing my guitar. I love the beach, swimming, nature and my family and friends.
Laura
Studying Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
After working exclusively as a Speech Therapist for 20 years in my hometown Barcelona, in 2020 I moved with my family to Australia where I completed a Master in Special Education. Currently, I am studying the Certificate III in Early Childhood and Care.
I’m passionate about supporting children, especially those who need extra care. Building strong, positive relationships based on trust and respect is key to creating nurturing environments where children can thrive. I love finding unique ways to engage children and help them reach their full potential.