Renu
My name is Ranuka Lata Sharma, though I am known as Renu here at the preschool. I currently work three days a week with our Big Kids team.
Before moving to New Zealand, I worked as a primary teacher in Fiji for 13½ years. I completed my Early Childhood Education studies in 2009 while working at the preschool and have now been part of our centre community for over twenty years. During this time, I have worked closely with our older children and held the role of Centre Manager.
I have recently stepped into a part-time teaching role, allowing me to spend more time with my family, including my grandchildren. I am married and have two adult daughters who are both currently studying at university.
I have a strong passion for our rich outdoor environment and believe it plays a vital role in stimulating children’s learning, curiosity, and confidence.
Linda
Kia Ora
Ko Linda toku ingoa. I originally grew up in Wellington and moved to Hamilton when I was a teenager. I have always lived in Hillcrest, Hamilton, so know this area very well from growing up as a teenager. When I got married and had children of my own we lived in Matangi for many years before moving back into town for our children to get around independently.
I am married to Steve, my children are Taylor who has lived in Wellington since going to Uni there and Aimee who is just about to head overseas on her big OE.
When I had children I decided to study early childhood. I had always connected with children easily, having my own children confirmed that for me. I went to Playcentre with my children and then took the plunge to head to Uni.
I have been teaching for over 15 years as a teacher and head teacher of a small centre. Then Steven and I decided to make some changes to our lives and took off to Asia for a year. When I returned I tried a few centres before I met Tracy and was inspired by her setting.
I love nature and working in small communities. Newstead Country Preschool offers both and I look forward to getting to know your children and your family on their learning journey.
Yi
Kia Ora
My name is Yi. I originally came from China. I’m a mother of a 7 years old boy. His name is Eason. Before moving to New Zealand, I worked as a landscape designer for 10 years since 2009. After I had my own little one, I found my great passion in ECE, which drove me to the exciting adventure to a totally new area.
I completed my Graduate Diploma in ECE with the University of Waikato in 2021, and then moved to South Island for 2 years, teaching in a lovely mixed-age center in Invercargill. Missing the warm weather here, we moved back to Hamilton just before Christmas 2022.
I was a student teacher and reliever teacher here in 2020, and I was very excited to join Newstead Country Preschool as a permanent teacher in 2023. I feel so blessed to reconnect with my whanau in NPC. I love every day I’ve spent with our tamariki. There are so much learnings that can be beneficial from the amazing natural settings here. I believe that a warm, secure, and trust relationship is the core of teaching. Every child comes to us with their own mana, and my responsibility is to create an environment where every child’s strengths are valued and empowered. I like the Maori concept ‘Ako’, which indicates the reciprocal relationship between educators and learners. I’m keen to know tamariki and whanau in Newstead Country Preschool and to learn alongside all of you.
Yi
Kia Ora
Hi, I’m BonBon! I’m really excited to be joining the Big Kids team in a permanent role, spending time with all the kids and getting to know the team.
I’m originally from China and have spent six years studying Education and Psychology. Back home, I also worked with children with special needs, which taught me a lot about patience and understanding each child’s unique way of learning.
I completed my Graduate Diploma in ECE with the University of Waikato in 2025, and started relieving at Newstead Country Preschool towards the end of that year. I’m now living in Hamilton East and loving the cozy life here. I enjoy connecting with children, learning together with them, and having fun along the way. I’d be happy to have a chat with you anytime!