Our qualified staff have extensive early childhood experience and are committed to providing programs that allow children to learn through play by engaging in experiences that are relevant and challenging for them.  We are dedicated to creating a happy, safe and secure environment for every child.

 

 

Nichole Jenkins

Position:  Director and Teacher
Group: Purple Group

My name is Nichole and I am the Purple Group Teacher and the Director here at Bentleigh West Kindergarten. I studied my Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at Charles Sturt University. I have worked many years in private and not-for-profit kinder’s before finding my home here at Bentleigh West Kindergarten. In my spare time I enjoying keeping fit at the gym, shopping, nail art, going to the movies, cooking up a storm, travelling and spending time with my family and friends.

 

Sophia Nardone

Position: Teacher
Group: Yellow and Green Groups

My name is Sophia and I am the Yellow and Green Group teacher here at Bentleigh West Kindergarten. I studied a Bachelor or Early Childhood Education at Melbourne University. In my spare time, I enjoy keeping fit, relaxing by the beach, retail therapy, real estate, travel and wining and dining with friends.

Ann Arundell

Position: Educator
Group: Purple & Yellow Groups

My name is Ann and I am a 4 year old co-educator. I’m one of the ‘grannies’ of the group having already seen my three children through Bentleigh West Kindergarten. I’m here Monday, Wednesday and Friday. In my spare time I head for the gym, the beach for a walk, the golf course or a comfy chair with a good book. I have four grandchildren with whom I spend lots of time.

Chris Newey

Position: Educator
Group: Purple & Yellow Groups

 

My name is Chris and I am a 4 year old co-educator at Bentleigh West Kindergarten. I am the other ‘granny’ of the teaching staff. Both my children attended Bentleigh West Kindergarten. I work Tuesday and Thursday at the kinder and also work in aged care. In my spare time, I garden and love looking after my two grandchildren.

 

 

Emma Witham

Position:  Casual Teacher
Group: Yellow, Purple and Green Groups

Hi! My name is Emma Witham.  I am a mum to 3 wonderful children (all at primary school). I am a qualified Early Childhood Teacher and I have a degree in Disability Studies.  I have worked as an Early Intervention Teacher at Royal Children’s Hospital, a kinder teacher, a director and teacher of a 3-5yr old activity group. I really just love being around kids!  I love to read, have massages and listen to good music.  I look forward to getting to know the children at Bentleigh West Kindergarten as I take on my role as the casual kinder teacher, the staff at BWK are a great team to work with.

 

Di Thornson

Position:  Educator
Group: Green Group

My name is Di and I am the co-educator of Green Group here at Bentleigh West Kindergarten. I completed a Certificate III in Children’s Services at a local kindergarten through Victoria University. In my spare time I like to socialise with friends and family, go to the footy, see movies, travel and go to live concerts.