Teaching Staff

ANGELA STORER

Director

I joined the team in 2014. I am a kindergarten teacher, an early intervention teacher, a parent, an animal lover, an exercise nut and a very keen gardener. At Kinder you will find me in the office in the Amethyst building or in the kinder rooms getting to know your children and supporting their educational programs. I look forward to working alongside you to meet our common goal – the wellbeing and development of your child.

DANIELLE LOGAN

Teacher

I joined Thornbury Kindergarten in 2014, starting in our first ever Bush Kinder program. I have a Masters in Early Childhood Teaching and completed a research project exploring children’s self-concept as part of my studies.

It is amazing to have a career that enables me to both observe and contribute to the immense development that occurs in the preschool years. Forming respectful and responsive relationships with children and families is fundamental to my teaching practice. I enjoy learning alongside the children, getting to know their interests, curiosities and dispositions.

I am enthusiastic about the importance of outdoor and nature play in children’s lives for their wellbeing and developing within children a love and care for the environment.

When I am not at kinder or bush kinder, I am spending time with my daughter, walking our dog Rocky, reading or listening to music.

KATE GOODRIDGE

Teacher

Being part of a child’s early childhood education is a great privilege. The privilege of learning from and with families to support their child to flourish. The privilege of learning from and with a child; to hear their ideas, to give them room to use their voice and to flourish as the unique individual they are. And the privilege of building upon the child’s vast knowledge and skills, inspiring them to think, be curious, create and share their ideas with others.

My initial training and background was as a primary school teacher. I have also worked as a children’s and families’ educator in the aid and development sector speaking in schools and writing educational resources, and as facilitator of a playgroup with parents overcoming depression.

Favourite things in my life include reading books, coffees with my friends, walking in the bush, making music and hanging around with my own children and partner.

HEIDI RATJE

Teacher

I joined Thornbury Kindergarten in 2018. I graduated with a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education from the University of Melbourne in 2010. In 2017,

I spent some time exploring nature-based programs throughout UK and Iceland with a team of passionate Educators from both Australia and around the world. This experience helped me to further develop my understanding of the value of outdoor learning, child-led inquiry and nature immersion.

When I'm not working, I love spending time in nature, visiting Healesville Sanctuary and reading.

MONIKA NITSCHKE

Teacher

I completed a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education from RMIT in 2018 however, I have been part of Thornbury Kindergarten since 2013, first as a parent and committee member then an educator and now a teacher.

I hold a strong belief that children are capable and unique individuals who learn best when engaged in play-based environments with numerous social interactions with peers and educators. I am committed to developing strong relationships with families to foster a strong and successful learning experience.

When I am not working, I spend a lot of time driving my children to numerous sporting activities. My family enjoys camping, biking riding, bush walking and time at the beach.

LAUREN IRELAND

Teacher

I am thrilled to be the Blue Group lead teacher. I love our day by Darebin Creek, taking in fresh air, bird song and a whole lot of mud!

After completing a Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Teaching at Melbourne University, I chose to work at Thornbury Kindergarten because I wanted to work in my local community and at a place that aligned with my personal and professional values.

Prior to Early Childhood, I worked in the not-for-profit sector in various community development roles which included developing projects to support refugee and asylum seeker young people and facilitating early parenting programs and playgroups. I have also taught English as an Additional Language to new arrivals in a language school and various secondary colleges.

Outside of work I love to travel, explore nature close to home along Edgars Creek and around Melbourne, cook for family and friends and get out to live music and community festivals.

MEGAN BOSNAR

Teacher

I completed my Bachelor of Early Childhood Education in 2025 and was very fortunate to join Thornbury Kindergarten in 2026. During my studies, I completed placement at Thornbury Kindergarten, where I developed a strong interest in the Bush Kinder and Out and About programs.

I am passionate about outdoor, nature-based play and learning, and believe children benefit greatly from hands-on experiences in natural environments. I’m excited to now be involved in both programs, supporting children as they explore, learn and grow.

When I’m not at kinder, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, being outdoors, going on walks, and exploring new places.

LUCY EVANS

Teacher

I am an experienced early childhood educator with a Diploma of Education from the University of Melbourne (1994). My teaching journey has taken me from Australia to London and Japan and includes meaningful work in a Kinder in Richmond. These experiences have shaped my belief that learning is lifelong and best nurtured through play.

I am passionate about fostering creative, inviting learning environments where children feel safe to explore, imagine and discover. I see play as a powerful driver of learning, and I strive to be attentive, curious and responsive — listening to children and guiding them to reach their full potential.

Outside of Kinder, I enjoy spending time with my son Charlie at his soccer games, camping with my family on the Mornington Peninsula, and visiting art exhibitions and theatre.

Yolanda Lyu

Teacher

I graduated with a Bachelor degree in Fashion Design and a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education from RMIT University. I am very grateful to have joined the Thornbury Kindergarten Team freshly after my graduation in July 2024 and proud to be part of a child’s early childhood education.

My teaching pedagogy is grounded in embracing developmentally appropriate practices to guide and support children through play-based learnings, nature-based programs, and community-based experiences. I hold a strong belief that children are capable and have the rights to be in a supportive environment where they feel comfortable to build on their autonomy and feel empowered to learn.

It is my responsibility to provide culturally and socially inclusive environment where all children can thrive in their unique learning journeys. As a lifelong learner, I find immense joy in exploring alongside children, particularly during their imaginative plays. I am always inspired by the creative and insightful ideas that emerge from their social interactions, both within and beyond the educational setting.

When I’m not teaching at kindergarten, I work as a fashion designer, focusing on my personal collections. I am also an avid painter and flautist, always engaged in the creative field. In my free time, I cherish spending time with my Ragdoll cat, Mocha

David Parissi-Smyth

Teacher

I completed my Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) from the University of Melbourne in 2022. Whilst studying I did a placement here at Thornbury Kinder and immediately recognized it as a center that aligns with my values as a teacher.

Upholding children’s rights, valuing their emergent autonomy, and respecting and connecting with the whole community are at the core of my practice as well as making music, having fun, and learning with children (particularly about nature).

At Thornbury Kinder I am constantly developing my teaching practice and learning to be more inclusive, to connect with First Nations knowledge processes, and to respond to and relate with each child and their family. It is such a wonderful privilege to work in Early Childhood and to do it in this lovely community at TK!

When I’m not at work, I love cooking (and eating), hanging out with my family, exploring nature and new places, and making music.

DIANA FLOURENTZOU

Educator

I have been at Thornbury Kindergarten since 2016. I have a Diploma in Early Childhood Studies. I was born in Greece and I came to Australia when I was 12 years old. I am a mother of two teenage children and prior to having my children, I worked in a childcare centre.

When I am not working I like to go for walks with my family. We have a cat called Lulu, two chickens and an angel fish. I don't have a favourite meal because l love all food!

SHALU GAHLAWAT

Educator

I know this kindergarten very well - my son attended for three years! I completed Certificate 3 and have a Diploma in Early Childhood Education & Care and I completed my training in Thornbury Kindergarten. I can speak fluent Hindi, English and understand Punjabi. If I described myself in a few words, I would say: ”Loves Everyone, loves nature & loves cooking “.

VERONICA PATEL

Teacher

I have been a part of the Thornbury Kindergarten community since 2019, working as an educator and building strong, meaningful connections with children, families, and staff.

In 2024, I completed my Bachelor of Early Childhood Teaching and am excited to step into the role of second teacher with Orange group for Out and About and continue working with Purple group where I can further develop my practice and contribute to the high-quality early learning programs.

I strongly believe that positive, respectful relationships with children are central to effective early learning, as they provide the foundation for children’s wellbeing, development, and lifelong learning. I am passionate about creating inclusive, supportive learning environments and look forward to continuing to learn, reflect, and grow alongside the children.

HELEN MOORE

Administration Manager

I am a Thornbury local and love the community here. My childhood was spent in Thornbury and although I spent years interstate and in other suburbs, this has been home again since 2014. I have worked in education for 30 years, in the TAFE sector, where I managed libraries and student support centres.

I take great pleasure in helping people and enjoy contributing to a community of like-minded people and that’s what I’ve found since joining Thornbury Kindergarten in 2020.

Away from work I spend my time with my grownup “kids” and my beautiful grand-children – they are a source of such joy. I love movies, music festivals, local theatre, walking with friends and café outings.

ALYSON D'ARCANGELO

Educator

I completed my Diploma in 2022 and have been a part of Thornbury kindergarten since 2019 as my daughter completed 3 and 4 year old kindergarten here.

I believe that each child should feel a sense of belonging; I see the importance and confidence this gives a child by feeling connected to a group and community. This will support their learning so that the child can lead the way for their own interests and their own identity making them feel confident to be who they are.

This is why I am passionate about child-led, play-based learning which brings the child to the forefront of the decision making of their learning. This ensures each child feels they are unique and special and able to learn.

When I’m not at kinder I love spending time with my family and our cheeky dog Bentley, having a coffee with friends or being in our garden.

BELINDA ANDERSON

Educator

I am a local mum of three and have been a parent at Thornbury Kinder since 2016.
After working for many years in high end fashion I realised my passion is in Early Childhood Education.

I completed my Certificate III in Children’s Services and started my diploma when I had my first child.

When I’m not at kinder I love singing, cooking, reading and exploring Melbourne with my family.

I’m thrilled to be joining the wonderful team at Thornbury Kindergarten and I can’t wait to get to know all the children and their families.

MICHAEL NORRISH

Educator

Inspired by my experience as a Thornbury Kindergarten parent I pursued a career change in late 2019 (from Cloud Infrastructure Management, very exciting) to working in Early Childhood Education. I completed the Certificate III of Early Childhood Education in 2019 and then completed the Diploma in 2021, while working in Long Day Care.

I love my family, being outdoors, listening to and playing music, and am currently studying to attain my Bachelor of Education (Early Years).

I am passionate about the Bush Kinder and Out and About programs, and am proud of the experiences and challenges that children can navigate while at Thornbury Kindergarten.

MARIJA LIKORAVEC

Educator

My name is Marija (Maria), and I have been working at Thornbury Kinder since 2025. It has been such a privilege to get to know so many of your children and watch them grow and develop, not to mention being surrounded by such an exceptional team who are true leaders in the early childhood space.

My background is in marketing, but after having children of my own, I was inspired by their kinder teachers to change careers. I have completed my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, and once my youngest starts school, I hope to further my formal education in early childhood.

I feel so lucky to be a part of this beautiful community and look forward to continuing this journey with you all.

MARIA GARCIA PALENCIA

Spanish Language Teacher

I came to live in Melbourne from Spain with my Australian husband and my son in 2011. In Spain I co-founded my own drama school where I taught drama to all ages.

I graduated as a Primary School Teacher in Spain, and here in Melbourne I completed a Diploma in Early Childhood Education. My passion is using play to stimulate curiosity and creativity in children which I believe is essential for future learning.

I joined Thornbury Kindergarten in 2020. It is a delightful experience sharing my language and my culture with the children. I love spending time in nature, going to the theatre, traveling and of course, spending time with family and friends.