Our Team
We have a great team of dedicated teachers. Our programme will respect and reflect on the individual child’s interests, providing all children with equal opportunities to reach their full potential.
Kristal Heath - Centre Manager
- Bachelor of Arts ( Psychology)
- Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education
- Full Registration
- First Aid Certificate
Kia ora whānau and families,
My name is Kristal Heath, and I’m truly honored to be part of your child’s early learning journey. I’ve been working in early childhood education since 2012 and have had the privilege of teaching in a range of centres that celebrate diverse cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs.
I hold a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) from the University of Canterbury, which I completed in 2012, as well as a degree in Psychology and a Graduate Diploma in Primary Teaching. Before diving into the wonderful world of early childhood, I spent two years relieving across various primary schools in Christchurch — so I’ve seen everything from finger painting to fractions!
When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll probably find me with headphones in, going for a run, planning my next travel adventure, or spending time with my two young boys
I’m passionate about creating learning environments where every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to grow. I believe that success looks different for every child, and it’s our role as educators to nurture their unique strengths, honour their cultural identity, and support them as whole people — not just tiny brains in development. I’m so looking forward to getting to know you and your tāmariki better. Let’s make this a fun, enriching, and meaningful chapter together!
Ngā mihi nui,
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Kirsten McKey - Team Leader Kauri RoomKia ora tamariki, parents, and whānau,
My name is Kirsten McKey, and I’ve been working in Early Childhood Education for nearly 20 years. I have a strong passion for working with infants and have spent many of those years in the nursery. However, I enjoy working across all rooms and love being part of the learning journey for children of all ages. It’s incredibly rewarding to see their growth and development as they learn, explore, and thrive. I live with my husband and our two children, and I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I’m also a big fan of sports and love staying active. Building strong, trusting relationships with tamariki and their whānau is something I value deeply, and I’m committed to creating a warm, supportive environment for all. Ngā mihi nui, |
Katelyn Reed - Totara room team leader
Diploma of Early Childhood Education
Kia ora, my name is Katelyn
I completed a Diploma of Teaching (ECE) at Rangi Ruru Early Childhood College in 2013, and prior to joining the team at Preston’s Preschool, I worked full time in a Nursery encouraging a love of learning and caring for children from three months to two years old. I have also previously spent many years working with children between the ages of 2-15 as a gymnastics coach, babysitter and nanny.
I have always had a passion for working with children and believe in building strong, meaningful relationships and creating strong connections between children’s experiences and adventures at home with their families and their learning during their time at preschool. I also particularly enjoy observing and supporting children in their play as they explore, discover and learn about the world around them, as well as providing a wide variety of experiences and resources to extend and build on interests and learning.
In my spare time, I enjoy mountain biking and riding different trails and tracks, water-skiing, wakeboarding, road cycling, baking, experimenting with healthy cooking recipes, growing a vegetable garden, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
I look forward to getting to know you, and working alongside you and your family
- Full Registration
- First Aid Certificate
Kia ora, my name is Katelyn
I completed a Diploma of Teaching (ECE) at Rangi Ruru Early Childhood College in 2013, and prior to joining the team at Preston’s Preschool, I worked full time in a Nursery encouraging a love of learning and caring for children from three months to two years old. I have also previously spent many years working with children between the ages of 2-15 as a gymnastics coach, babysitter and nanny.
I have always had a passion for working with children and believe in building strong, meaningful relationships and creating strong connections between children’s experiences and adventures at home with their families and their learning during their time at preschool. I also particularly enjoy observing and supporting children in their play as they explore, discover and learn about the world around them, as well as providing a wide variety of experiences and resources to extend and build on interests and learning.
In my spare time, I enjoy mountain biking and riding different trails and tracks, water-skiing, wakeboarding, road cycling, baking, experimenting with healthy cooking recipes, growing a vegetable garden, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
I look forward to getting to know you, and working alongside you and your family
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Jasmine Bailey - Team Leader NurseryKia ora, I’m Jasmine — but please call me Jas!
I believe strong, respectful relationships are the foundation of meaningful learning. That’s why I focus on building responsive, reciprocal connections with tamariki and their whānau — working together to support each child’s unique learning journey. I see every child as capable and full of potential, and I’m passionate about empowering them to guide their own learning in a way that’s relevant, joyful, and at a pace that’s right for them. My goal is to create a warm, nurturing environment where tamariki feel safe to explore, play, make sense of the world around them, and be completely themselves (yes, even on the messy days — those are my favourite!). I’ve worked in Early Childhood Education for over twelve years, with a soft spot for our littlest learners — infants and toddlers hold a special place in my heart. Outside of the centre, you’ll usually find me spending time with my whānau and friends, in a cosy corner reading a book, baking up a storm (bonus points if there’s chocolate involved), or winding down with a good movie and spending time with my husband. I can’t wait to get to know you and your little ones! Ngā mihi nui, Jas |
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Christine Abeykoon
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Laura Chapman- Teacher PreschoolKia Ora tamariki, parents and whānau, my name is Laura Chapman and I have been teaching in Early Childhood education for one year after graduating from the University of Canterbury with a Bachelor of teaching and learning ECE. I have been passionate about Early Childhood Education from a young age and really enjoy working with all age groups within Early Childhood and the different aspects of teaching they each bring. When working with tamariki I believe it is important to build reciprocal relationships with tamariki and work together with whānau, to empower tamariki to love and take control of their learning as they begin their learning journey. I have a passion for music and movement, and I enjoy having fun alongside the tamariki I am working with. In my spare time I enjoy skiing and camping and spending time with family and friends. I look forward to meeting you and getting to know you and your whānau.
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Sumari De Bruin - Nursery teacherKia ora! My name is Sumari
More information coming soon :) |
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Juwon Kno - Nursery Teacher Kia Ora. My name is Juwon Kno and I am from South Korea. I have moved to New Zealand in early 2020 with my twin sister, and recently completed a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education at NZTC. Before moving to New Zealand, I have spent about 6 years working with children between the ages of 6-15 as a teacher at the language school in Korea.
I believe children are a gift from God and every single child is a reward and blessing. I believe that building strong emotional ties with children is crucial as it is the central foundation for their learning and development. I will actively listen and positively respond to children so that they can feel that they are accepted and important. I live with my sister and our 6 year old dog. In my spare time, I love spending time with them exploring this beautiful country, hiking and walking my dog. I look forward to getting to know you and your children. |
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Iresha Nawarathne - Nursery teacherKia Ora whanau and families, My name is Iresha Nawarathna and I am originally from Sri Lanka. I recently completed a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and I am currently pursuing a degree at NZTC. Early Childhood Education has been my passion since childhood, and I thoroughly enjoy working with tamariki of all ages. This is an incredibly meaningful moment for me, and I feel deeply grateful to be a part of it. Establishing strong bonds with tamariki and their families is crucial to me, as it allows me to understand and foster their holistic development. I strive to design engaging and educational activities for children, boosting their confidence and understanding. Furthermore, I delight in observing and assisting children during their exploratory play, as they delve into and absorb knowledge about their surroundings. I also leverage my creativity and skills to provide meaningful experiences for them. Outside of work, my husband and I share a love for travel, hiking, and camping in this beautiful country, as well as spending time with family and friends. I'm excited to get to know you and your children.
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Harvey Del Rosario Francisco- Kauri Room teacher. Kia ora Preston’s whānau! I’m Harvey Del Rosario Francisco, but you can simply call me Harv’z. I’m absolutely buzzing with excitement to be joining the amazing Preston team! I can’t wait to meet our wonderful tamariki and whānau and share heaps of love as we nurture their early years together with fun and care. I’m originally from the beautiful Philippines and hold a Bachelor's degree in Education, majoring in Basic Education, plus I proudly have Level 7 NZQA accreditation and a provisional teacher registration. Teaching is truly in my blood—my siblings are all teachers too! I bring heaps of energy, joy, and a big warm heart to everything I do. Whether inside or outside the classroom, I love helping children grow, learn, and blossom while having a blast. I really believe Preston’s teaching philosophy beautifully supports children’s development, and I’m thrilled to see it aligns perfectly with my own passion for nurturing young learners. Let’s make learning an exciting adventure together!
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Devon Berryann - Totara TeacherKia ora whānau and families. My name is Devon Berryann and I am from the east coast of the United States. I came here to Christchurch a little over one year ago and completed my Graduate Diploma of Teaching and Learning for Early Childhood at the University of Canterbury. Prior to coming to New Zealand, I worked with children in early childhood centres and primary schools for about 13 years. I also hold a Bachelor's degree in Applied Behavioural Science and spent many years working to support children with disabilities and diverse learning needs. My experiences have taught me the importance of respectful relationships with children that empower and inspire them to reach their full potential, while feeling that they are loved and valued just as they are. I enjoy following children's curiosities so that together we can learn more about each other, as well as the world around us. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my partner, three children, and our little dog. I also enjoy hiking, spending time in nature, reading, cooking, baking, and different types of crafting. I am looking forward to getting to know everyone in the Preston's Preschool community, and I am so excited to be joining the team.
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Hasitha Abeywickrema - Chef
Kia Ora. My name is Hasitha Abeywickrema and I came to New Zealand very recently to work in this amazing preschool as a chef. Friends call me Hasi and I invite you to use that name as it is easier to pronounce than my full name.
This was one of my dreams realized. I am very thankful for this opportunity to work here and would love to use my culinary skills to create and serve more appealing nutritious food for our children together with our friendly teaching team. I have followed a professional course in hospitality and followed and apprenticeship in chef training. I have worked in many star class hotels in the middle east and Sri Lanka.
I have my family in Sri Lanka. My wife is currently looking after our son and I would love to see them migrate to New Zealand one day to be with me in this most beautiful country.
This was one of my dreams realized. I am very thankful for this opportunity to work here and would love to use my culinary skills to create and serve more appealing nutritious food for our children together with our friendly teaching team. I have followed a professional course in hospitality and followed and apprenticeship in chef training. I have worked in many star class hotels in the middle east and Sri Lanka.
I have my family in Sri Lanka. My wife is currently looking after our son and I would love to see them migrate to New Zealand one day to be with me in this most beautiful country.
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