Alice – a passion for curiosity and connection
3-and-4-year-old Pipi Program
For Alice, who has worked in early childhood education for more than nine years, the excitement children bring to learning is contagious. With qualifications including a Master of Teaching (Early Childhood), Alice has built her practice on valuing each child’s voice and tailoring learning to their interests.
“I believe that every child is a capable, curious and unique individual who brings their own strengths and ideas into the learning environment,” she says. Her approach involves observing, listening, and waiting for children to invite her into their world.
Alice measures her success in the small, transformative moments, whether it’s a child articulating their feelings for the first time or two children connecting through play. Her goal in everything is to equip children with “the tools and the knowledge” for the next stage of learning.
Recently relocated to Goolwa Beach, Alice enjoys coastal walks with her partner and is an avid collector of beautifully illustrated children’s books.
Di – igniting wonder through discovery
4-and-5-year-old Pelican Program
For Di, early childhood education is about sparking curiosity and joy, not rushing into academics. After beginning her career in her 30s while raising her own children, she has now been an teacher for 17 years and thrives on the desire to learn that young children bring.
“I find it a delight, the innate wonder children show, their questions, and their willingness to try new things,” she says. “This is what inspires me.”
Di finds joy in those breakthrough moments when a child gains confidence after months of gentle support, often with families noticing the change at home too. She sees learning as organic and child-led, guided by the inspiration of the moment as much as by plans.
Outside the classroom, Di is a keen traveller. She lived in Suzhou, China for four years, teaching both kindergarten and reception classes at an International School. Unsurprisingly, she loves languages (she’s currently learning Spanish). Outside of work, she enjoys life in Mount Compass with her husband, two grown-up children, and border collies.
Kate – supporting growth with empathy
4-and-5-year-old Penguin Program
With seven years of experience and qualifications in both early childhood and primary teaching, Kate brings a parent’s empathy to her role. As a mother of two, she understands what it means for families to entrust their children to another person’s care.
“As a parent, it can be hard to let go,” she says, “but the flipside is watching children grow, find their voice, and feel safe being themselves.” For Kate, success lies in children greeting her by name, running in with smiles, and sharing their stories with confidence.
She values the unique opportunities Little Investigator ELC offers, from nature play to specialist lessons, and believes strongly in inclusive practice, shaped by raising two neurodivergent children. At home in Strathalbyn, she enjoys checking out new cafés, being in nature, and cheering on her beloved Brisbane Lions.
Little Investigators thrives on the dedication of its educators, who support each child’s growth, celebrate their discoveries, and build strong connections with families. We invite you to get in touch and arrange a tour to see our learning environment in action.
