Kia Ora, my name is Kayla Clark, I am second-in-charge and I share the Kaiārahi | Team Leader role in Te Rūma Kiwi with Alicia.
I studied at the University of Canterbury to gain a Bachelor in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) in 2011. My teaching journey began at Phoenix 14 years ago, working as an Infant and Toddler teacher for 6 years. After taking some time off while my children were young, I gained experience working at other local centres, before returning ‘home’ to Phoenix 5 years ago. My husband Adam and I have 3 daughters who have all attended Phoenix Preschool, which has provided them with a strong foundation of education to begin their life long learning journeys.
I love the family feel that Phoenix provides, our philosophy is centred around relationships, whānau, community, and whanaungatanga, and I feel privileged to work alongside an incredible team of kaiako who share these values, and provide amazing care and education for your tamariki.
I strongly value working alongside whānau to incorporate your knowledge and aspirations for your child into individual plans, as you know your child best! It is important to me that tamariki develop a strong sense of belonging in their environment. Developing reciprocal relationships with their kaiako supports tamariki to feel confident to try new things, trust that their needs will be met, understand that their contributions are valued and that their culture, heritage and values are respected.
I am passionate about primary caregiving, and over the years have attended professional development focused on infant and toddler pedagogy.
I believe that our Preschool feels like a home away from home where children can explore and learn alongside their peers, in a nurturing environment that is rich with opportunities to build on their interests and strengths!