Rakelle Ru Bay

Centre owner & Educational Leader

Hawke’s Bay local Rakelle is a fully qualified, registered teacher with more than 30 years’ experience in early childhood education and leadership within the sector.

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My passion lies in providing the best care and education possible for tamariki and their whānau. I assume an active teaching role across both centres and consider my role as an early childhood educator a privilege, a chance to ignite joy in new experiences; prompt curiosity in the world; introduce experiences that challenge and develop skills; and inspire a love of learning that tamariki will carry with them beyond Lumsden.

My team shares my ambition to exceed excellence in all that we do, and are supported and mentored through professional development and ongoing study opportunities to be the best kaiako they can be. At Lumsden, everybody’s skills and talents are nurtured.

Jo Dawson

2IC

Jo brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to excellence in her role as 2IC at Lumsden Kindergarten.

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Jo plays a key leadership role at Lumsden Kindergarten and is deeply committed to being part of a team that upholds excellence in all that we do. Known for her attention to detail and strong organisational skills, Jo is our “queen of systems,” ensuring that the centre runs smoothly and efficiently behind the scenes.

With over 21 years of experience in both teaching and management roles, Jo brings a wealth of knowledge to her work. Her expertise in Health and Safety is invaluable, and she mentors and supports the team to maintain the high standards and diligent practices that keep our centre safe and well organised.

While Jo’s leadership is felt across the whole centre, she remains actively involved in teaching, with a particular passion for working with our babies and toddlers. Supporting the youngest tamariki as they grow, explore, and begin their learning journey is something she finds incredibly rewarding.

Our Tokihi Leaders

Tokihi – to move with purpose, rhythm, and collective strength.

At Lumsden Kindergarten, our Tokihi Leaders hold a special place within our team.
Inspired by the movement of a waka, Tokihi reflects the rhythm and unity required to move forward together—each person paddling in unison, guided by a shared vision and common goal.

It is a role grounded in strength, connection, and leadership—where the collective effort of the team creates momentum, direction, and success. Our Tokihi Leaders ensure we move as one, upholding our commitment to Excellence. Elevated. in all that we do.

Leading with intention, integrity, and heart, they mentor, inspire, and uplift those around them—ensuring both our tamariki and kaiako thrive within a culture of excellence.

Rochelle Fontaine

Growing Excellence at Lumsden for 5 years

Little Lumsden Tokihi leader
Qualified ECE Teacher

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Rochelle is an exceptional leader within our team, bringing a beautiful balance of strength, warmth, and professionalism to all that she does. Her loyalty and dedication have played a significant role in shaping Lumsden as a true Centre of Choice.

With a natural ability to mentor and inspire, Rochelle brings her team along with her—fostering confidence, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence. She leads with calmness and a solution-focused mindset, ensuring both kaiako and tamariki feel supported to thrive.

Rochelle truly embodies our mission of instilling a love of lifelong learning, with a deep understanding of how this begins in the earliest years. She has a special way of nurturing both children and teachers, bringing out the very best in each.

A much-loved and deeply respected member of our team, she is, in every sense, a true Lumsden treasure.

Carol Van der Merwe

Growing Excellence at Lumsden for 5 years

Big Lumsden Tokihi leader
Qualified ECE Teacher

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Carol is an exceptional leader within our team, known for her passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to high-quality teaching and learning. Her loyalty and dedication continue to strengthen Lumsden as a Centre of Choice.

With a deep understanding of the importance of the early years leading into school, Carol ensures our older tamariki are supported to build the strong foundations needed for lifelong success. She believes that when a love of learning is nurtured, children are empowered to go anywhere and do anything.

A natural mentor, Carol empowers both new and developing teachers, fostering confidence, capability, and a shared commitment to excellence.

An all-rounder in her practice, she ensures Big Lumsden is rich in literacy and mathematics while also recognising the importance of active movement in building strong foundations for learning.

A much-loved and deeply respected member of our team, Carol is, in every sense, a true Lumsden gem.