Our Team

Zoe Dooley Choklits Child Care

Zoe Dooley

Zoe has worked in early learning for almost 5 years and is an Administration and Communication Assistant at Choklits in Ringwood. She holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and is currently studying an Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management. Over to Zoe... I love working in early education as I feel like you get to relive your favourite parts of your own childhood all over again and have even more fun! I love working with children as no two days are the same and you never know what to quite expect a child to say or do. The excitement and happiness that children bring to ours lives is unmatched and I feel so lucky to work in an environment where I am surrounding by this each day. Within my personal philosophy I believe as an educator we are here to be the biggest support for all children and create strong relationships with all families to ensure trust is established. When it comes to my career, I have been most proud of my career progression over the last five years. I began as a student on work placement...

Katy Johnston Choklits

Kate Callaghan

Kate is one of our Educators at Choklits Ringwood! Over to Kate... I love working in Early Childhood Education because I love to be apart of children's learning and development. It's very rewarding watching them develop their personalities and skills. When I'm not at Choklits I enjoy spending time with my family, friends and partner. I love going camping and visiting my holiday house whenever I get the chance! One of the best things about working at Choklits is making a difference in our families lives. It makes me feel so happy when parents tell me that their child is continuously saying my name around the house.

Ellie Saberi Child Care Choklits Early Learning

Ellie Saberi

Ellie has worked in early learning for almost 15 years and is the Director at Choklits Child Care in Surrey Hills. She holds a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and, a Diploma of Leadership and Management. Over to Ellie... I am passionate about working in early education and care because it allows me to make a positive impact on the lives of young children during their formative years. Witnessing their curiosity, growth, and development brings me immense joy. I believe that fostering a supportive and engaging environment at this stage sets a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning and success. Being a part of their journey is truly fulfilling, and I am dedicated to creating a nurturing space where each child can thrive. I take great pride in my childcare management career, and one of my most significant achievements has been cultivating a collaborative and inclusive team culture, create an environment where each team member feels valued, supported, and empowered. Building a cohesive team is crucial in providing high-quality care for children. Together, we've implemented effective communication strategies, shared best practices, and continuously focused on professional development....

Rita Choklits

Rita Song

Rita is a 3-year-old Kindergarten Teacher at Choklits in Surrey Hills, has been working in early learning for almost 3 years and holds a Master of Teaching. Over to Rita... I love working in early education and care because I enjoy the process of learning and teaching. I love doing different activities with children like planting seeds and tracking the growth and seeing how excited and involved they are. I believe in encouraging children to express themselves and their opinions and allow them to undertake experiences that develop self-reliance and self-esteem. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of continually helping children develop the confidence and skills for school. I'm also proud of building a close and secure relationship with one particular child within a short period of time, which resulted in his behaviour improving a lot. That was fantastic to be part of. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy going hiking, watching TV and visiting new parks and gardens. The funniest thing a child has said to me was when a child askewd "Rita, why are you wearing glasses?" to which I replied "They help me see things...

Pinky Choklits

Pinky Cheng

Pinky is a 4-year-old Kindergarten Teacher at Choklits in Surrey Hills, has been working in early learning for over 2 years and holds a Master of Teaching. Over to Pinky... I love working in early education and care because it’s very fulfilling to provide a safe and nurturing space for children not to only grow, learn and thrive, but also to have fun and share playful, cheeky moments together before heading off to school. It’s also very rewarding seeing them grow physically and emotionally, confidently expressing themselves and becoming more and more independent in their learning, self-help skills and conflict resolution. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of building strong relationships with all children. As children are all unique, bringing different stories, strengths and skills, I’ve learned, adapted and been challenged to become a better teacher and friend to all my children. And also my drawing skills including Star Wars, Transformers, Bluey, Ninja Turtles, cats, cassowaries and 200 other characters and animals). When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy hanging out with friends, finding different hobbies to do, taking care of my baby plants and going on walks. The...

Katy Choklits Child Care

Katy Johnston

Katy has been working in Early Childhood Education and Care for over 5 years and holds a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education. Over to Katy... I love working in Early Childhood Education and Care because I love being around children, watching them play and learn. It’s a privilege to be a part of their world and be involved with all their learning experiences. It’s especially nice to build relationships with families and other staff members. It’s fun to watch them grow and learn and develop their personalities and skills. During my time as an Educator I have been proud that I can settle children who are normally very challenging to settle. I have been told I am very calming when they are feeling overwhelmed. When I'm not at Choklits I enjoy going shopping, watching movies, walking my dog, craft activities, going for drives, visiting beaches & spending time with my Nana. One of the funniest things a child has said to me was once when a little boy asked if he could come home with me so he could make me some spaghetti! He was so cute and we...

Deb Choklits

Deb Prelorenzo

Deb is the Centre Director at Choklits Croydon and has been working in Early Childhood Education and Care for over 17 years. She holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, Advanced Diploma in Children's Services, Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, Diploma of Nutrition and a Diploma of Personal Training. Over to Deb... I love working in Early Childhood Education and Care because I can drive continuous improvement to the profession. Children are the future and we need to ensure that they are supported and encouraged through all aspects of learning and development. I see children as being competent and capable so I believe in nurturing their social and emotional needs, layering additional learning alongside. I design programs to reflect their needs, interests, goals, strengths and ensure that I am contributing to their education and care. Children have the right to be recognised as subjects of civil, legal, individual and social rights; as both source and constructors of their own experience and thus active participants in the organisation of their identities, abilities and autonomy through relationships and interaction with their peers, with adults, with ideas, with objects and with the...

Jodi Mcvea Choklits Child Care

Jodi McVea

Jodi has been at Choklits Child Care Centre for over 9 years and is Service Director. She holds a Diploma in Children’s Services, is a mother of 4 children, has a warm heart and a fabulous smile which our youngest early learners absolutely love. Over to Jodi... There are so many reasons to love working in early learning! Being with children everyday creating inviting play spaces that the children will engage in and learn new skills from is very exciting. But, what I love the most is being able to make a difference in the families lives and supporting parents when they first enter the world of early learning. It's a big responsibility ensuring families have peace of mind leaving their children with us for the first time and knowing they will be safe and have fun, one both my team and I take very seriously. Throughout my career as an early childhood educator I am most proud of the relationships I have built with the children and their families, many of which have continued after the families have left Choklits. When I not at Choklits I am a taxi driver...

Tanaya Reidy Choklits Child Care

Tanaya Reidy

Tanaya has worked in early learning for over 2 years and holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. Over to Tanaya... I love working in early education and care because I have always loved working with children. I feel that it is highly rewarding to be part of children’s lives, creating special connections, watching them grow and supporting them in their learning. My proudest carer moment so far has been finishing my Diploma. When I'm not at Choklits, I enjoy family time and a bit of relaxation. The most beautiful moment I have had with a child is when they told me they started including me in their family drawings. She said "this is mum and this is dad and this T and T is always in with us now".

Brigette Aurnia

Brigette Aurnia

Brigette is the Choklits Social Media and Marketing Manager and holds a Bachelor of Media & Communications. Over to Brigette... In my role as a marketing professional in childcare, I have the opportunity to promote and support programs and services that directly benefit children and families. Knowing that my work contributes to the well-being and development of young children is incredibly fulfilling. One of my proudest career moments has been creating engaging content and videos that have reached 1 million+ views on TikTok & Instagram. I have quite a few hobbies I enjoy in my free time when I'm not a Choklits. I enjoy DJ-ing, I'm always on the lookout for new music and love to discover new musical artists. I love playing video games, especially strategy-based games. I also enjoy expressing my creativity through sewing and creating fun outfits and costumes. The cutest, funniest or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was "When I grow up, I want cool hair like you (my hair was purple at the time)".

Savannah Choklits Child Care

Savannah Prelorenzo

Savannah is the Centre Administrator & Curriculum Leader at Choklits Croydon adn has been working in Early Childhood and Care for over 7 years. She holds a Bachelor of Psychology, an Advanced Diploma in Community Sector Management, a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Over to Savannah... I consider Early Childhood Education and Care a profession. In the first years of a child's life, their brain development will create the foundations for all learning and development later in life. It is truly amazing to think that I am helping to shape children and fostering their development, establishing their curiosity and wonder of life and learning. I believe that the development of a child's imagination is crucial because as Vygotsky so rightly says it “is an important component of absolutely all aspects of cultural life, enabling artistic, scientific, and technical creation alike.” It is said that through imagination we develop new ideas and this is one of the reasons why I love working in Early Childhood Education, because new ideas do not come from nowhere; they are based on our experience, combined...

Gemma Rooney Choklits Child Care

Gem Rooney

Gem holds a Certificate 3 in Business Administration and is part of our office team at Choklits Croydon. Over to Gem... I love working in early education and care because I love being around children and watching them learn and grow. I am proud of the knowledge and skills I have gained throughout my career. I started as a young, nervous 18 year old and am so proud of how I have grown in confidence over the last ten years. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, teaching dance, reading, spending time outside, camping and hiking. The most beautiful moment I have had with a child was when children gave me drawings they had done planning my wedding. They had drawn themselves as flower girls and designed my wedding dress. It was such a sweet moment.

Deb Choklits Child Care

Deborah Chellemben

Deborah holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and has worked at Choklits Surrey Hills for over 2 years! Over to Deborah... I developed a passion of caring for children when I was a teenager. It started when babysitting my little cousins where I learned from my elders the basic needs of a newborn. When I grew up, I got the fantastic opportunity to learn the importance of education for children and put my knowledge into practice through my religion. Back in my country, I used to volunteer in orphanages to teach children about moral values. I learned all of these from my spiritual faith, which is very special to me. We believe children have pure hearts and they are like a branch that is fresh and green. From their earliest days and with great education they will most likely develop good character, have good morals and will contribute to their community. I believe educating young children is one of the greatest services of all. Besides the passion and love that I have for children, I'm very proud of my spiritual beliefs and the way they guided me...

Cooper Choklits Child Care

Cooper Prelorenzo

Cooper has worked in early education for 12 months, has a Bachelor of Science and currently works in administration at Choklits Surrey Hills. Over to Cooper... I love working in early education and care because the early years are such a pivotal time in a child's life and an integral component of their learning and developmental journey. The connections and relationships that they form during this time allow them to flourish and excel in the future. This passion to nurture and foster a learning environment which facilitates their development is how my passion started. Although, I am working as an administrator, I certainly will be expressing this excitement when I greet you and your children in the mornings and evenings. The completion of my science degree has allowed me to possess an in-depth understanding of the STEAM world. Working at Choklits gives me the opportunity to help embed this knowledge in the children's curriculum. This will encourage children to explore the wonders of art and science, whilst also understanding the interconnection that exists between both of these worlds. These experiences that the children will be exposed to throughout the Choklits...

Sanju Rajora Choklits Child Care

Sanju Rajora

Sanju has been working in Early Childhood Education and Care for over 2 years and holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education. Over to Sanju... I love working in Early Childhood Education and Care because I’m very fond of children and love their ability to express love and affection. During my time as an Educator I have been proud that I can become friends with children quickly. I love when they call or remember my name. When I'm not at Choklits I enjoy going spending time with my family, volunteer meditation, cooking and hosting. One of the funniest things a child has said to me was once when a little girl once said that she wants me to be her doll with two ponies.

Philippa Choklits Child Care

Philippa Morris

Philippa holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, is the kindergarten teacher at Choklits Croydon and has been working in early childhood education for over 12 years. Over to Philippa... I love working in early education and care because I love to work in a team. I also love developing and scaffolding the children’s learning as the grow through play and through their communication. I also love getting loads of cuddles, when I walk in the room each morning and throughout the day. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of following my dreams into teaching. In the past I have had a child learn the phonetic 'ph' sound, so when they went into school they remembered it and the teacher was surprised. Also having a child learn that her name had two(2) meanings, one a stones name and the other her name. When I’m not at Choklits I love crocheting, getting out in the garden and visiting my friends. I also love to read mystery novels and Harry Potter. I also like to do adult relaxation colouring. I have had many cute and funny things said to me over...

Chloe Choklits Child Care

Chloe Guo

Chloe is part of our kindergarten team, has been working in early learning for over 3 years and holds a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. Over to Chloe... I am passionate about learning and applying myself positively to the lives of young children. Australia is a diverse country with many rich cultures. I enjoy and appreciate the importance of inclusiveness in society, especially in early childhood education. I believe learning through play is one of the most effective ways to help children discover themselves. When combined with a mix of child-lead and teacher-lead structures and opportunities to let children explore freely, be creative, work as a team and develop critical thinking skills we see the most growth and development. I love learning and providing excellent learning environments and experiences for our children to learn too. One of my proudest moments during my career was finishing my master's degree, definitely a highlight for me! When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy many different things. I have always been curious about different cultures, food, and people. Travelling around the world is one of my favourite things to do.

Michelle Choklits Child Care

Michelle Jurrjens

Michelle holds a Diploma of Children’s Services and has been working in early childhood education for almost 15 years. Over the Michelle... I love working in early education and care because I believe that as educators we have the chance to help support and develop the child’s own innate ability to learn and also help to foster their own understanding of the world and environment around them. I love being able to come to work and feel that I am making a positive difference in the children’s day and lives, and seeing them absorb and reflect on the positive impact that I can have on them, helping them to grow and develop their own self worth and confidence. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of being apart of a child’s journey and growth, and having a positive impact on their lives, helping them develop into successful individuals, whilst cherishing their uniqueness. I love being able to help children achieve milestones that are important to them, understanding that each child develops at their own pace and whilst a milestone that to many may seem minor, to the child that has...

Dani Choklits Child Care

Dani Graves

Dani has been working with children for many years, holds a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care, a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and is hoping to complete her Bachelor's degree in the future. Her experience ranges from working with individual families to the early learning centre environment, on top of raising her two (almost adult) children. Over top Dani... I love working in early education and care because I love being around kids and helping to shape their futures. Children are so beautiful and innocent. I love their conversations and the cuddles. Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of being resilient, adaptable and resourceful. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy running as I am an avid ultra trail runner! I've always been a very active person but only started regularly running about 7 years ago and started doing trail run events about 5 years ago. I've completed 1 x marathon, 5 x 50+km events, 1 x 100km and Oxfam 100km. I like the endurance and the beauty of ultra running! I thoroughly enjoy it when children call my name. It is the sweetest...

Kayla Choklits Child Care

Kayla Scotto

Kayla is currently completing her first year at Choklits and holds a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education. Over to Kayla... I love working in early education and care because I am able to help and watch the children grow and learn and form strong connections with them all individually as well as with their families. Throughout my time in early childhood education, I have most loved helping children to take their first steps and encouraging them to have a stronger vocabulary. Often those special moments happen when they are with us at Choklits. While I’m not at Choklits I enjoy playing netball and footy, as well as cooking with friends and family. The cutest thing a child has ever said to me was they came up and sat next to me and said, "Hi Kayla, I love you" and then hugged me. Another lovely moment was when a child asked if I could go home with them to meet her brother and play with them both.

Alex Choklits Child Care

Alexander Mcphee

Alex holds a Certificate 3 in Children's Services and has been working in early learning for over a year. Over to Alex... I love working in early education and care because I believe that every child has a right to have the best start in life, meaning supporting them in any way needed. I feel strongly that every child deserves to feel safe and have a safe place/person who they can trust. Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of building the relationships/connections I have with the children I have had the pleasure of looking after and teaching. Helping them succeed in every challenge they face in an educational sense and helping them overcome personal challenges is really important to me. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy watching educational documentaries about either history or marine sea life. I love relaxing with my 2 cats and taking long drives to discover new places with my family and friends. The most beautiful thing a children do is first thing in the morning when they run up to me screaming my name and inducing me to their parents as their best friend....

Shelly Choklits

Shelly Zhang

Shelly holds a Bachelor of Commerce major in Human Resource Management, a Diploma (and Certificate) of Biblical Studies, and Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care. Shelly has just joined the Choklits team. Over to Shelly... I love working in early education and care because it is very rewarding when I see the children learning and having fun through our time together. Children learn everything from the people around them, so as an educator, I believe role modelling is very important to support children's development. I'm always happy to see that there are so many positive influences for the children through our role modelling in their most critical stage of learning and development. Before I started working in this industry, I always loved being surrounded by children. And in the past 2 years, I have done some holiday programmes with different age groups of children which I really enjoyed it. My friends kept telling me, ''Shelly, you are very good with children!" Through my friends' encouragement, I realised that working with children is what I am truly passionate about. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy spending time with...

Asten Choklits Child Care

Asten Persons

Profile coming soon...

Akki Choklits

Akanksha Sharma

Akanksha (Akki as she's known around Choklits Surrey Hills) holds a Bachelor in Business Administration (Major in Marketing) and is currently studying for her Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education & Care. Over to Akki... I love working in early education and care because I love seeing children learn who thrive under our care. It is exceptionally gratifying; to spend each day seeing the world through children's minds and eyes, which have all the possibility, positivity, and excitement for life. A lot is going on with children in their early years, and it's incredible to be a part of it where I can help them learn, encourage and develop to their most tremendous potential. Plus, every child is different, and working with them helps me to learn new things and grow with every learning phase. It doesn't get any better than being passionate about children and having the chance to make a positive difference in their learning journeys. When it comes to my carer, I'm most proud of taking a significant step to follow my passion and pursue my Graduate Diploma in Early Education and Care. Outside of my work...

Paris Choklits Child Care

Paris Ille

Paris has almost completed her Diploma of Early Education and Care and Choklits is her very first job in early learning! Over to Paris... I love working in early education and care to watch children grow, develop and thrive into beautiful young humans. After high school I studied psychology, with the hopes of becoming a child psychologist. After deferring for a couple of years and travelling Europe, I decided to get straight into studying my Diploma of Early Education. One of my most favourite parts about working in early education and care to watch children grow, develop and thrive into beautiful young humans. I’m beyond excited to be working at Choklits, expanding my knowledge and working towards my personal milestones like finishing my Diploma which I'm proud of almost being completed. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy spending time with friends and family, taking my two dogs for runs on the beach. I love going to the gym and keeping active. All the moments I have with children are the cutest, I love being welcomed in the morning with big hugs and smiles. The most beautiful thing a child...

Leanne Choklits

Leanne Lovell

Leanne holds a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care and has been in working in Early Learning for almost a year. Over to Leanne... I love working with children, watching them learn and guiding them through early education. I’m very proud of my previous job working as a nanny for a family for 15 years and now using my experience working as an early childhood educator. When I'm not at Choklits I love spending time with family, playing netball and basketball and catching up with friends. The cutest, funniest or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was a child asked me why I was old. My response was "I’m not that old am I?" to which the child replied, "Yes, you’re old because you have cracks around your eyes".

Zac Choklits

Zac Eyssens

Zac is our Group Compliance and Education System Training Administrator and has been working in Early Childhood & Care for over 7 years. He holds a Bachelor of Health Science, Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Over to Zac... I have always loved working in Early Childhood Education and Care, it has been apart of my life since I can remember. From co-running a Judo club to being a swimming instructor, my passion lies in supporting positive outcomes in children's health, wellbeing and learning. I represented Victoria in Judo and was nominated to go to the junior olympics as well as coach the state Judo camp which opened my eyes to the world of possibilities, especially in Early Learning. I believe working in the Early Childhood Education and Care profession provides an opportunity to make a real difference in the way a child approaches learning for their lives. Being able to encourage, nurture and support the next generation is an honour. I have a passion for leadership and love to see people achieve their goals and extend their learning and growth....

Jenny Choklits Child Care

Jenny Hernandez

Jenny has been working in early childhood education for over 5 years, holds her Certificate 3 and diploma in Early Childhood Education and recently completed a Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Teaching (early years and primary). Over to Jenny... I love working in early education and care because I strongly believe that children are unique individuals who require a secure, caring and stimulating environment in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. I believe that children are the future of our society; therefore, as a teacher is my desire and responsibility to help students to meet their fullest potential. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of completing my bachelors degree in early years and primary. In my spare time, you will find me travelling, doing yoga, watching movies or spending time with my loved ones. The funniest and cutest thing a child has ever said to me was “Jenny, will you marry me?”.

Suanda Choklits Child Care

Suanda Srivastav

Profile coming soon...

Sue Brewer Choklits Child Care

Sue Brewer

Sue is our Centre Director and has been at Choklits Child Care Centre for over 26 years. In March 2022, the Herald Sun crowned Sue Brewer Melbourne's Best Child Care Worker. She has touched many families’ lives and cared for hundreds of children. Sue has a calm approach, takes time to understand everybody’s needs and is always there to help and listen to our family’s needs. Sue believes in true partnerships. A mother to 4 children and a grandmother to 14, Sue holds a Diploma in Children’s Services. If you are lucky enough she may even bake you the most delicious chocolate cake you have ever eaten! This is Sue with Choklits owner Jade celebrating her 25 years at Choklits... Over to Sue… Some of the things I really enjoy about working in Early Childhood Education is seeing children develop, grow from a young age and learn the skills that will help them on their journey through life. I’m very proud of my achievements starting as an untrained assistant all the way through to the Director of Choklits. When I’m not at I love spending time with my family, knitting,...

canterbury road childcare is now owned by Choklits Ringwood - the same experienced educators

Jade Ingleby

Jade (along with her husband, Matt) owns and runs Choklits, has a Bachelor of Business Human Resource Management, a Masters of Accounting and a Diploma of Children’s Services. Jade has two young children and is passionate about learning and strongly believes that all children have the right to be safe, loved and should all be set up for the best chance at success in life. Over to Jade... I began my career in the corporate world working for organisations including Ernst and Young and in senior management for the NAB. In 2016, I purchased Choklits in Ringwood along with my husband, Matt. Children and teaching are my passion so Choklits quickly became my second family and growing the Choklits Community is now one of my favourite things in the world! Choklits has grown from a small centre we purchased all those years ago to the community it is today. I'm so proud of our team of dedicated educators who pour their heart and soul into our children. It makes me so happy I get to do this work everyday. When I'm not at Choklits I'm usually thinking about Choklits! I...

Choklits Chef Boon Lai

Boon Lai

Boon holds a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery Hospitality and is our Chef at Choklits Surrey Hills! We call her by her preferred name, Lai. Over to Lai... I have been working in the food industry for almost 30 years. I have worked in a few restaurants but prior to working at Choklits, I was a Chef Manager in the aged care industry for over 10 years. During that time I was nominated for the 2016 National Finalist for the Facility Catering Service award which I'm very proud of. I understand the importance of nutrition from raising 2 children of my own. I am passionate about creating tasty and nutritionally balanced meals for the children. I believe every meal is an opportunity to teach them how important it is to eat healthy. All my food are cooked fresh on the day using the freshest ingredients I can source and in line with the Choklits philosophy. When I'm not at Choklits I love travelling with my family, I also enjoy knitting and reading. The funniest thing a child has ever said to me was "I want to cut my hair really...

Janine Fox Choklits Child Care

Janine Fox

Janine is the Assistant Manager and Educational Leader at Choklits Child Care in Ringwood. She holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and is working towards her Bachelor of Early Childhood Teaching. Janine has worked in Early Learning for over 9 years! Over to Janine… I love working in early education and care because I am able to witness the amazing development of the children in my care. The early years are such an important time in a child’s life and these years certainly form the foundation for the future. I feel blessed that I can experience the wonder and joy as children experience so many firsts. My own philosophy aligns so well with the Choklits Philosophy with the phrases “learning is everywhere”, “learning from everyone” and “spark the fire” really resonating with me. Working in this industry enables me to facilitate and ignite a love of learning through the provision of a range of learning experiences and activities which I love researching, creating and then, watching as the children are excited and become absorbed in hands on learning. I am very passionate about providing warm and welcoming environments in...

Elena Emakova Choklit Child Care

Elena Ermakova

Elena holds a Bachelor of Education and has been in the education industry for over 8 years. Elena has lots of experience with all age groups, has a passion for music and has taught internationally. Over to Elena… I am passionate about empowering young children, in a safe, nurturing and an inclusive environment, preparing them for what may lay ahead, especially in their school career. I enjoy working in an inspiring environment with children, families and staff from different cultures and faiths. Each one adding their own input into the cultural aspects of the program and teaching me about how diverse our world is. My career started many years ago as a music teacher in Russian school that specialised in providing education to vulnerable children with different life circumstances, including abuse and poverty. I realised then how important it is to build trust with children. Trusting relationships can influence the future of the younger generation, their views of this world and empower them to make good choices in their lives. I am very proud of being a part of these children’s life journey and seeing them flourish. When I moved to...

Leila Bagheri | Choklits Child Care Centre Nursery Educator

Leila Bagheri

Leila is an Educator in the Choklits Nursery, holds a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and a Bachelor of Electronic Engineering and has over 15 years experience in education. Over to Leila... My teaching career started overseas where I worked as a high school teacher for 4 years. I then taught math and physics to year 10 students. Afterwards I decided to gain some experience working with young children, so I started to work as an educator in a kindergarten which lasted for 4 years. After I moved to Australia, I decided to continue working in the same field so I studied my Diploma of Early Education and Care to gain further knowledge about children aged 0 to 5  and how they develop, learn and think. I gained some local experience completing placements in 3 different child care centres including Choklits before officially starting at Choklits in October, 2020. I love working in early education and care because I love learning about children through their eyes. Before verbal communication skills develop you can see children's personalities, their needs and wants all through their expressions. I have always enjoyed...

Tamara Johnstone | Toddler Room Educator | Choklits

Tamara Johnstone

Tamara the Pre-Toddler Room Leader at Choklits Surrey Hills and is Diploma Qualified. Over to Tamara... I love working in early education and care because seeing the children’s smiles and giggles as they play and learn new skills and extend their development. I’m most proud of completing my Diploma. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy being physical and going to pilates, yoga, on runs and spending my time family, friends and my dog Skyee. The cutest moment I’ve had with children are their cuddles and the way they make me feel wanted and loved, which is basically all the time!

Tracey Perkins Choklits Child Care

Tracey Perkins

Tracey has been with Choklits for over 15 years and has played an integral part in the education of many young children’s lives. She has a Diploma in Children’s Services and has 2 adult children she loves spending time with. There is nothing Tracey doesn’t know or love about Choklits! Over to Tracey... I love working in early education and care for the excitement of teaching little minds new tricks! Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of passing 15 and a half years service at Choklits. I have formed some great friendships with both past and present families and have so many fond memories of the Choklits Community. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy caravanning around Australia and family time with my 2 grandsons. Every moment at Choklits is special that’s for sure, but since becoming a grandma myself the children began referring to me as Nanna Tracey which is very special and gives me a warm fuzzy feeling.

Matt Choklits Child Care

Matt Reynolds

Matt (along with his wife, Jade) owns and runs Choklits. Jade and Matt have two young children and are both passionate about learning and strongly believe that all children have the right to be safe, loved and should all be set up for the best chance at success in life. Over to Matt… I began my working life delivering newspapers before settling on a career as a maintenance plumber. After working and studying to become qualified and licensed I started and grew my own high end plumbing company and serviced some of Melbourne’s most expensive and exclusive homes and business locations for luxury brands such as Kay & Burton and Lamborghini. In 2016, Jade and I purchased Choklits Child Care in Ringwood.  Developing people and building teams has always been a passion of mine. A little while back a past team member of our plumbing company called to ask me if I had realised that everyone who came through our apprentice program now works for themselves and runs their own business. I hadn’t at the time, but it’s something I’m pretty proud of. When Jade and I purchased Choklits Child...

Christine Picone Choklits Child Care

Christine Picone

Christine (or "Twigs" as she's better known at Choklits) is an Educator in our Pre-Toddler Room, holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and has been in early education for 4 years. Over to Twigs... I love working in early education and care because children light up my world and I love being able to light up theirs. I love guiding them through their early years to become the best versions of themselves. I love the Choklits community and our love of learning, our philosophy is very cohesive. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of completing my Certificate III and my Diploma. I’ve loved having the opportunity to work with all age groups at Choklits, forming wonderful relationships with the children along the way. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy listening to music every chance I get and going to heavy metal concerts. I love driving, especially through the mountains and if I’m not at Bathurst to watch the V8’s, I’m watching it on tv. I also enjoy playing pool.

3

Ereney Hanna

Ereney is an Educator in our Toddler Room, holds a Diploma in Children Services and has been working in early education for over 10 years! Over to Ereny... I love working in early education because I believe building relationships with children helps them feel secure and supported in their learning journey from babies to young people. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of seeing the children I've care for grow and go on to start their school journey. Some of the children that I've looked after attend the same school as my son and I find it very rewarding when they remember who I am and run over for a big hug. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy spending time with family, I have three children of my own. I also like knitting gifts to give to my children and listening to music. The cutest thing a child has ever said to me occurred one day when I was picking up my son from school. The child, who I'd previously cared for, innocently questioned me “Oh, what are you doing here Ereney?”; he looked so confused and said...

Cassandra Godfrey Choklits Child Care

Cassandra Godfrey

Cassie (as she's know around Choklits) holds a Certificate III in Children Services, has been working in early learning since 2010 and is our Pre-Kindergarten Room Leader. Over to Cassie... Over the years I’ve become even more passionate about providing a fun and child lead environment, where children can thrive and develop long life skills to help them achieve goals, as well as setting them up for success for life. I have a strong belief that all children should have a voice and be heard, as children are our future. I also love the fact that we as educators can partake and help build the leaders of tomorrow. While working in this industry for over ten years, you come to realise just how rewarding and important it is working with children. Every week there is one or two things that happens that makes me super proud to be an educator. It’s in the little things I find I’m most proud of, whether it’s a child who can tell you the eight planets of the solar system in detail, to being capable of washing their dishes by themselves or even writing...

Anh Nguyen

Anh Nguyen

Anh has been in early learning for almost a year and holds a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care. Over to Anh... I worked with children for 2 years before moving to Australia with my husband. We have four children of our own so I know raising children is not easy and it gives me great joy to help young children in our community learn and grow. Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of the love I develop with all children. I observe children carefully which guides my interaction and helps me understand them. They all have challenges and helping some to understand why their parents need to work and can't be with them during the days they are at Choklits is a good example. Talking with parents and then teaching their children about the reasons they work and what they do each day really helps them have a better understanding. When children move to a place of true respect for their parents, it always brings a smile to my face because I know it has a very positive impact on the family. When I’m not at...

Talia Waters Choklits Child Care

Talia Waters

Talia started working at Choklits as a part-time cleaner in 2015 while she was still at school. She decided to join our Educational Team soon thereafter, began studying and now holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. She has now been with Choklits for over 8 years! Over to Talia... I love being a part of playing a key role in helping and guiding young children as they accomplish wonderful transformations in their development and achieve milestones. Getting creative to produce inviting play spaces and experiences is one of my passions. Seeing children get excited from engaging in an experience that sparks their interest all the while supporting their growth at every stage is something remarkable. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of building strong retaliations with not only the children, but also with their families as well. Being apart of Choklits for over 8 years has been a wonderful journey to watch children thrive from being in my care in the nursery room to graduating our kindergarten class, always makes me so sad on their last day at Choklits as I wont be able to see...

Tina Wang Choklits Child Care Ringwood

Tina Wang

Tina is an Educator in the Choklits Pre-Toddler Room, holds a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, moved from China to Australia in 2008 with her family and now has over 5 years experience in early education. Over to Tina... I love working in early education and care because I believe learning is happening all the time, particularly through play. I have a strong passion to connect, interact and build positive relationships with children. I enjoy guiding children to grow and learn through to play. I sharing opportunities for children to explore, discover, imagine and create in their environment. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of my interactions with the children which include the simplest things like the children waving their hands at the end of the day and saying "bye bye, Tina". When they run to me with excitement and hugs I can see them light up and I'm reminded of how much the children care for their educators just as we care for them. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy going for walks, being at the beach watching the sunrise and sunset. I also love to...

Grace Zhang

Grace Zhang

Grace has been working in the early childhood sector for over 3 years and holds a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care. Over to Grace... I love working in early education and care centres because I love children, especially after I had my own children. 5 years ago I had a very hard time in helping my own child settle in a child care centre. We had tried three of the best centres in the town but my little boy still cried all day until we met an educator called Amanda. She was very caring, patient and professional. She finally helped my child settle in that centre. I just thought I want to be an educator like Amanda. It's amazing to be able to help a child feel safe and comfortable and to start helping them play and learn. Nothing can beat the wonderful job I have! Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of the many moments of progress I see in children developing under my care. For example, very young children can get frustrated and have a tendency to snatch things they want. As educators, it's...

Oti Megan@2x

Megan Fletcher

Megan holds a Certificate III in Children’s Services and has worked in early education for over 15 years! Megan works in our Pre-Toddler room at Choklits. Over to Megan… I love working in early education and care because I can provide a caring, nurturing environment for those in my care and assist them with learning life skills that will enable them to grow and develop into capable, independent people. Seeing the joy on children’s faces when they achieve everyday tasks or learn something for the first time is so rewarding. Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of my ability to adapt to difficult situations I have been placed in. Whether it was learning a little Mandarin to help assist a young girl with very little English to organising and executing a school holiday program for 5 year olds before they started school. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy being a Mum to two very energetic and loud children. Being actively involved in my church, socialising with family and friends. I love bike riding with the family, venturing all over Melbourne, visiting different attractions and parks. The cutest thing...

Oti Elly@2x

Elly Hudson

Welcome to the team Elly! Elly has joined our growing Choklits team in our Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Room. Elly finished Year 12 last year and is undertaking a traineeship with us to obtain her Certificate III. Elly has done over 1000 hours of volunteering in child care and is very passionate about working with children. She believes that “Children need to experience differences to be happy with theirs”. Elly has cerebral palsy and works with her abilities to manage for this. We are very happy to welcome Elly to the Choklits community and look forward to being part of her training, development and supporting her in her studies as she supports our early learners in their own study.

Oti Karen@2x

Karen Swale

Karen holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and works across all our rooms at Choklits. Over to Karen… I love working in education because I can teach my values to others through positive professional relationships and play! These values include physical and mental health, respect, honesty, family and friends. I enjoy interactions with children that lead to learning and laughter. Some activities I especially seek with children include singing and dancing, reading, water play, cooking, playdough and Lego! I feel a sense of belonging and camaraderie when working as part of a team of teachers and families and achieving common goals for children together. While I am proud of my achievements in teaching, including swimming teaching, being a new mother has been the best thing ever and also the hardest as I suffered badly from postnatal anxiety. Upon recovering I have received a renewed sense of self and purpose. When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy playing with my son Harry, swimming, walking my dog, chatting and being inspired with friends, watching movies, baking cakes, enjoying nature and simplicity. There have been many things said over years but some...

Choklits Child Care

Get your copy of Meet the Chokliteers

Get your copy of Cooking at Choklits

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Share This

Select your desired option below to share a direct link to this page