Candy

Kia Ora,

I’m Candida, also known as Candy, I began my teaching career 22 years ago after graduating with a degree in Commerce. However, it wasn’t long before I found my true calling working with young children. I started my journey as an AMI Montessori Head Teacher, working with children aged 3-6 years, my passion for nurturing young minds led me to work in Singapore, Hong Kong, USA, India and New Zealand where I had the privilege of working with children from diverse cultural backgrounds.

My love for teaching and learning didn’t stop there, I then pursued my Bachelor of Education (Secondary).

In 2015, with my husband and daughter by my side, we moved to Paeroa, making this beautiful town our home.  I started at the Belmont Road location as a Montessori Head Teacher and have had the opportunity to work under three different ownerships. I’ve been a familiar face at this centre since then as the Head Teacher of Tuakana for eight years. During this time, I’ve enjoyed every moment working with the children and forming connections within the community.

In July 2023, I travelled and spend time with family, and during this time, I also gained my teacher registration for secondary education. I’m excited to return, now working in the Teina room. I am looking forward to creating a nurturing environment for your precious tamariki, where I can extend their interests, thinking and developing their love of learning.    

Outside of teaching, I enjoy reading, singing and sewing and exploring the beautiful places 

family.

Teacher here November 2022-July 2023 and February 2025-current