Our Team
About Us
Jane Hely
Co-Director
ABOUT ME
Jane Hely
Co-Director
Originally from Brisbane, Miss Jane brings a remarkable 43 years of experience as an Early Childhood Teacher and Director in various C&K and Lady Gowrie Qld-affiliated, as well as other not-for-profit Kindergartens. Having resided on the Gold Coast for 41 years, she has been an invaluable Co-Director at Broadbeach Waters for an impressive 29 years.
Miss Jane’s exceptional contributions to education have not gone unnoticed. She has been recognised for her outstanding work, having been nominated and shortlisted for National Excellence in Teaching awards on two separate occasions. In addition, she received the prestigious titles of Queensland Director of the Year in both 2012 and 2014, a testament to her exceptional leadership and commitment.
In our centre, Jane assumes the vital roles of Co-Director and teacher for Group 1. Her wealth of experience, coupled with her passion for early childhood education, ensures that children under her guidance receive the utmost care and developmentally enriching experiences. We are privileged to have Miss Jane as an integral part of our team, shaping the educational journey of our young learners with her expertise and dedication.
Lauren Regan
Co-Director
ABOUT ME
Lauren Regan
Co-Director
What sets Lauren apart is her commitment to a holistic teaching approach, where she recognises and nurtures the unique abilities of each child. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, she ensures that all children thrive and reach their full potential. We are privileged to have Lauren as an integral part of our team, guiding and inspiring our young learners on their educational journey.
Kate Galvin
Educator
ABOUT ME
Kate Galvin
Educator
Kate supports Miss Lauren on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Michael Dmitronow
Educator
ABOUT ME
Michael Dmitronow
Educator
Mr Michael was born on the Gold Coast and was a chef for 15 years before deciding to change careers and start working with children. His personal philosophy and practice is built upon developing strong, close relationships with the children and working partnerships with their families in order to achieve and realise the best learning outcomes for each child.
Michael and his partner, Miss Kimi, practice holistic health in their own lives and find these practices carry over well to our work in Early Childhood Education, mirroring the holistic nature of The Early Years Framework. He loves cooking, music and values the outdoors and learning through nature.
Michael supports Miss Jane on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.Mitsue Akiba
Educator
ABOUT ME
Mitsue Akiba
Educator
We have been fortunate to witness the journey of Mitsue’s entire family at Broadbeach Waters Kindy. First, her three children became a part of our community, and later, Mitsue herself joined our team, creating a special connection between her family and our institution. Mitsue holds a Diploma in Children’s Services with experience in both international kindergarten environments and teaching English to school children in Japan.
Mitsue supports Co-Directors/Teachers across both groups as needed.
Emilia Katajisto
Centre Administrator
ABOUT ME
Emilia Katajisto
Centre Administrator
In 2022, Emilia became a valued member of our team, assuming the role of Administrative Officer. With a Master’s Degree in accounting, she brings a wealth of expertise to our organisation.
Emilia is also a devoted mother of two young children and has called the Gold Coast home for the past nine years. Hailing from Finland, her previous accounting career took her on exciting journeys across various corners of the globe.