Our Staff
The majority of our permanent teaching staff at Armidale Montessori Preschool are Diploma Qualified or above. Staff include a Director and team of permanent educators, as well as a regular group of casual staff.
Lead by the Director (Dushani Gamage) and the Education Leader (Yvonne Leong), all permanent staff are continuously adding to their skills and knowledge through further education and practical experience. Beyond this, most staff have experience including music, languages and art.
Why not book a school tour and come and meet our wonderful staff yourself?
Centre Director, Dushani Gamage
Highest qualification: Bachelor of Commerce and Law
I moved from Newcastle to Armidale in January of 2016 with my husband and young son, after deciding to take a hiatus from my career as a Shopping Centre Manager.
I enrolled my son at Armidale Montessori Preschool a few months later, as I was attracted to the Montessori philosophy and the beautiful, open and light-filled indoor classrooms.
In late 2016 I joined the Montessori team as an administration officer and was then appointed to the position of a non-contact Director in early 2017. As my background is in accounting and law, not childcare, it has been a steep, but very enjoyable, learning experience
I can truly say that this is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable positions I have held. I have the privilege of not only witnessing, but being a part of, the growth and learning journey of the delightful children in our care. With the added bonus of working with a great group of educators who are passionate and committed to educating and caring for children.
Education Leader – ECT, Maryanne Schroder
Highest qualification: Currently completing a Bachelors in Early Childhood Education & Care (Completed – Diploma in Early Childhood Education & Care)
Hi my name is Mary, I joined Armidale Montessori Preschool in August 2024.
I have worked in child care for over 15 years. My experience spans numerous roles within the childcare industry, including as an educator, cook, room leader, education leader and nominated supervisor.
I have completed my diploma in Early Childhood Education & Care and am currently studying a Bachelors at the University of New England.
I believe children are the future and the first 5 years of a child’s life is the most important.
Bambini Room Leader, Kelzang Lhadon
Highest qualification: Masters in Education
Hi, I am Kelzang Lhadon from Bhutan. I moved to Armidale at the beginning of 2022 to support my husband, who is studying at UNE. I have a Bachelor’s and Masters in Education and have been teaching since 2002. I am proficient in teaching primary and high school.
Now I am fascinated by Montessori’s philosophy of educating children. I started working Armidale Montessori Preschool in October 2022. Joining Armidale Montessori Preschool has been the best part for me. Every day has been a learning experience with support from Director, Education Leader, Room Leader and senior colleagues. Additionally, having access to frequent Professional Development opportunities broadens my knowledge and skills in supporting and guiding children.
I was promoted to the position of Bambini Room Leader in July 2024. As a room leader, I am passionate about fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment that supports the holistic development of each child and encourages their independence. This role allows me to grow both professionally and personally, enabling me to continuously develop my skills and knowledge, while making a meaningful impact on the children and the community I serve.
Bilby Room Leader, Kristy Ostenfeld
Highest qualification: Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care
I have been working at Armidale Montessori since late 2015. I have a diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.
I really enjoy working with children and love to see them grow in a happy and caring environment. I believe that every child is unique in their own characteristics and strengths.
I love to be able to build strong relationships with the children and support them to be their best.
I feel privileged to be a part of each child’s journey at Armidale Montessori.
Bambini Room Educator, Libby Howey
Highest qualification: Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care
I began working at Armidale Montessori as an educator at the start of 2018. Since then, I have had the opportunity to work in a number of roles, including the Bilby Room Leader position and the Bambini Room Leader position, and now, I currently work as an assistant educator helping out across both rooms.
I love working at Montessori because of its unique approach in not only caring for but also educating children. My favourite part about being an educator is seeing children learn & progress at different stages & being there to guide them through this process.
I am so grateful to be part of such a diverse, inclusive and supportive network of educatos and families, which makes me really enjoy doing what I do.
Bilby Room Educator, Nikita Neimanas
Highest qualification: Currently working towards a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Completed – Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care)
Hi, my name is Nikita Neimanas, I come from a big family background. Being the eldest in the family I have watched and helped all my siblings grow up.
When I finished school, I started my studies in childcare. I have always loved children and have an interest and passion in their wellbeing and learning.
I started working at Armidale Montessori in 2017. I started off as a casual educator and worked my way up to the position of 2nd in charge within the Bambini Room. After a 13-month maternity leave absence, I returned to work at Armidale Montessori in 2022 as a casual educator and was appointed to a permanent part time educator position in 2025.
Working at Armidale Montessori has opened my eyes to a whole lot of learning structures and skills I never knew pre-schoolers could gain and learn. It has been a great learning experience for me.
I love and enjoy working with children and families in such a welcoming environment.
