Meet our teaching staff
At WHPS we have a dedicated and experienced team of teachers led by our highly experienced Manager, Meredith Bardwell. Each group is taught by a qualified Early Childhood Teacher, a Certificate 3 trained Co-Educator and a regular, lunchtime Early Childhood Teacher. We also have permanent casual staff, and occasional visits from students on University placements.
MEREDITH BARDWELL
Preschool Manager
Diploma in Community Services (Childcare based)
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education with Distinction
Masters of Education Leadership & Administration
Graduate Certificate in Educational Research
“I have worked in the early childhood education and care sector for over 20 years in various roles. Recently I worked as a Pedagogical Leader for an early years management group. Some of the work was to support team members to improve their practice by goal setting, develop curriculum planning and critically reflect on the best and fairest ways to work with each other. I also had a long standing role with Monash University as an education consultant. Within this role I was able to develop my skills and research in regards to the importance of teacher wellbeing and inclusion.
I’m very honoured to be joining the families, children and teaching team at WHPS. I look forward to a fantastic season, full of new beginnings and a continued sense of community and harmony.”
VICKI GAZIS
Grey Roos Teacher
Exemplary Level Teaching Standard
Bachelor of Early Childhood and Primary Education
Bachelor of Adult Education
Masters of Education in Child Psychology
“I believe that it is my role as a kindergarten teacher to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children as they make the transition from home to pre-school. It is an exciting journey as children learn through play and are scaffolded to an optimal level of development. Partnerships with parents are an important part of my teaching practice thus acknowledging that a child’s family are his or her first teacher.
When l am not at WHPS, l enjoy stepping into the academic role of a part time lecturer in Early Childhood. One of my toughest and most fulfilling jobs in the world ‘is being a mother’. My choices have been heavily influenced by being a mum to my son and daughter.”
JANE VERNON
Red Roos Teacher
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)
“I have worked with children in numerous capacities including kinder teaching and as a therapist for children with Autism. After being at home raising my children for a number of years, and then the last two years Casual Relief Teaching, my passion for the early years has been reignited. I feel very passionate that 4 yo kinder, should be a year where our children feel that their individuality is celebrated, they are safe, loved and valued. I also want to provide many opportunities for the Red Roo’s to have experiences in nature. I am excited to be part of the very special West Hawthorn community.”
CLAIRE WILSON
Yellow Joeys Teacher
Reconciliation Action Plan Chair
Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) with Distinction
“I have a love of learning and have studied and worked in several fields, including the performing arts and nutrition, but I have found my calling in kindergarten teaching!
I love getting to know each child and walking with them on their early learning journey.
I endeavour to create a calm, happy environment, where children thrive and grow, and can enjoy Belonging, Being, and Becoming.”
LUCY SOSSA
Yellow Joeys Educator
Red Roos Tuesday Educator
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
“Working with the children and families at WHPS is an absolute delight. Every year the children collectively bring unique challenges, which not only add to our teaching growth but the privilege of forming a unique bond. Given the privilege of playing such a vital role in our little participants social, emotional and academic development is a role I and we, the WHPS teaching team, don’t take lightly. We pride our teachings and care with the knowledge of delivering and empowering them with a strong foundation for the years ahead. We welcome you all and thank you for entrusting us with your bundles of joy!”
JOSIE ZANDEGU
Grey Roos Educator
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
“I see my role as the Co-Educator of the Grey Kangaroo group to be the facilitator that helps our children move through their pre-school journey. It’s a privilege to see the children learn and grow in our kindergarten environment, and build trusting relationships with children and parents. My most joyful experience is to see the children again who have gone on to school and are confident and successful.”
KARIN MCEWEN
Green Joeys Teacher
Accomplished Level Teaching Standard
Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood)
Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Child and Youth Studies
“West Hawthorn Preschool is in such a unique setting and is one of the most beautiful early childhood services I’ve worked at. I’ve been in the industry for 30 years, so that’s saying something! We are incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by parkland, some of which include our bush kinder corner. I often think back to my days teaching in London, where the enclosed playgrounds were all asphalt and no grass. It’s a privilege to engage with the children in this natural environment and set them on a path of discovery. Loris Malaguzzi, founder of Reggio Emilia, once said the environment is the third teacher. This statement couldn’t be truer than at West Hawthorn Preschool. I especially enjoy chatting to the children about how the large plane trees change each season. West Hawthorn staff are kind, professional, and an absolute joy to work with.”
JASMINE MAIN
Green Joeys Educator
Sustainability Officer
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
“As the Co-Educator of the Green Joeys group I acknowledge the great responsibility I have to encourage and support every child to feel safe, secure and supported within our kinder environment. My goal is to build warm, caring and reciprocal relationships with each child and their family. It’s a real privilege to be part of the education and care of every child in our Green Joeys group.”
CHLOE MCARTHUR
Lunchtime Educator
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
RACHAEL MARINKOVIC
Lunchtime Educator
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
‘Together we grow, learn and celebrate the journey’
