Donna Hudson - Kindergarten Teacher, Educational Leader & Nominated Supervisor

Hello!  My name is Donna Hudson.

I am a Bachelor Qualified Teacher and have been  at Darren Reserve Kindergarten for 22 years. I am also Educational Leader and Nominated Supervisor.

For me, every day brings such joy.  I see children as capable, unique individuals who are naturally curious and creative -  through play children are able to learn about and make sense of their world.  I value every opportunity to slow down, notice, explore and just BE with the children

I acknowledge diversity and difference as a strength, and value kindness, trust, respect,  and open-mindedness for  building and maintaining strong, collaborative relationships with  children, Families and colleagues.

Outside of Kinder , I am interested in Bush Tucker and gardening,  I love to spend time at the Temple with my husband and Buddhist community  and also with my Family. I am a lifelong Dr Who fan and my favorite colour is Blue.  

Chelsea - Kindergarten Teacher

Hello! My Name is Chelsea, I am an Early Childhood Teacher with a Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Development.

I have 10 years of Teaching experience all of which has been at Darren Reserve Kindergarten, and I am currently teaching the Butterfly Group.

I have a passion for teaching young children and learning alongside them. I believe children are capable, knowledgeable and resilient beings that should always be treated as such. I believe in the power of play based learning as the most effective means of teaching and learning, and I have a strong passion for outdoor learning. A fun fact about me, is that I love learning about the Weather!

Irene – Kindergarten Teacher

Hi! – Salam kenal, is Indonesian for nice to meet you.

I graduated from Early Childhood Studies from Melbourne University in 2002. After working for a couple of years in a long day care, I decided to further my study for another year to complete Primary Teaching.

I joined Darren Reserve Kindergarten teaching team in 2009 as a kindergarten teacher, teaching three-year-old and four-year-old groups. I am passionate about this kinder where I am given the opportunity to grow professionally and personally, which influence my teaching philosophy. I believe in learning through play. Why? Because it is fun and something fun always bring interest, curiosity, and active engagement. I love bringing fun to the children’s learning and have the privilege to witness them grow.

Rebecca - Kindergarten Teacher 

Our wonderful Turtle Group Teacher  has been at Darren Reserve for 3 years  

Rebecca is currently on Maternity Leave  

 Geethani Manegamage - Co-Educator

Hello! My name is Geethani Manegamage, and I hold a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Education. At our daycare, I am the Co-Educator in the Bilby Group and also work as an Additional Assistant for Butterfly and Turtle Group.

I believe that fostering respectful, caring relationships with children and their families is essential. These connections help us understand each other better and create a rich, meaningful environment where children feel safe to explore, learn, and express themselves.

Outside of work, I cherish spending time with my two girls. I also enjoy cooking and going on outings with my family and friends.

Jeremy -

Hello everyone! My name is Jeremy. I currently hold a Diploma qualification in Early Childhood and also a Certificate IV in Education support. I have been in the Early Childhood industry since 2012 working with children in childcare, sessional kindergarten and also primary school children in holiday program and after school care.

My philosophy for working with children is quite simple. I believe every child will grow and learn best in an inclusive and positive nurturing environment that promotes creativity, imagination, trust and self confidence while also under the guidance of our educators.

Outside of work, I love interacting with animals and I have a dog of my own named Sunny. I also am passionate about sports and a massive Essendon supporter!

Krishanthi - Co-Educator

Hello , I'm Krishanthi Gunatilaka, a co-Educator at Darren Reserve Kindergarten. Originally from Sri Lanka, I've made Australia my home for over 15 years, balancing caring for two children and a lively three-year-old dog. Crafting and tending to my garden bring me joy in my spare time.

With Diplomas in Montessori and Early Childhood Education and over a decade of experience, I prioritize providing personalized care to nurture each child's unique learning journey. I strongly believe in giving children the time and space to explore and learn without interruption, empowering them to thrive in their educational pursuits.

Educating children is my passion, and building trust and security in my relationships with each child is fundamental.

Laura - Co-Educator

Hi! My name is Laura Dall and I have been working here at Darren Reserve Kindergarten as one of our Co-Educators since 2012. Whilst at DRK, I have worked with both our 3 and 4 year old groups, and have loved every second of it!

My passion for working with children and within a kindergarten started back when my own nephew’s attended kindergarten. I volunteered my time at his kindergarten, helping out both the children and the staff, and as soon as I did, it came to me – this was what I wanted to do with my life! And I haven’t looked back since!

When I am not at DRK, I’m spending time with on own family – my husband, our 2 children and our dog, Willow. At home I enjoy shopping, baking, drawing and watching movies. I am a little pop culture nut and love everything Disney, Marvel and Anime related!

Melissa -

Hello, my name is Melissa.

I am Diploma qualified in children’s services.

I have been at DRK for 12 years. I have experience working with 3yo and 4yo children.

Getting to know the families is so rewarding. I love and look forward to welcoming families back with siblings.

A favourite part of my day is watching the children progress and learn; seeing them hold a pencil and then write their name or the amazement of mixing paint colours together to make another colour.

My favourite Disney character is Mickey Mouse. I love celebrating special occasions with my family and friends, my favourite being Christmas. My footy team is the Tigers and soccer team is Liverpool.

Tam - Co-Educator

My name is Tam Nguyen, I am the Co-Educator in Turtle Group here at Darren Reserve Kindergarten.

I believe that children learn through play. We encourage children to learn at their own pace through high-quality educational programs and have opportunities to explore their environments to build strong social, language, and emotional skills.

Working with children is one of the most rewarding jobs to be a part of. Helping children learn, play along-side the children, seeing and getting to celebrate all their special moment. Getting to see who they become and the skill they learnt throughout the year is so rewarding.

Outside of work, you'll find me riding bike or taking a walk with my husband and three children, watching movies, and in my garden.

Natalie - Co-Educator

My name is Natalie and I am a co educator in the Butterfly room. I have a Bachelor of Early Childhood and Primary Education as well as a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. I really value forming strong, safe and respectful relationships with children as they help to promote children’s learning and development. This is my first teaching position and I can not wait to get to grow and develop as a teacher!