The Learning Land team. From left to right: Mandy de Agrella, Nick Derecourt, Willow Sherwood and Rita Serfontein
Our team
Rita
I moved to Nelson in 1995 with my family for a change of lifestyle and trained as an early childhood teacher through Te Rito Maioha (originally NZ Childcare Association/Te Tari Puna ora O Aotearoa). I was appointed as the head teacher at Paula’s Preschool Nelson when it opened in July 2000 and assisted in building a strong presence in the early childhood sector in Nelson. I bought the preschool in October 2004 and changed the name to Learning Land Preschool. I teach in the centre and am responsible for the overall management of Learning Land. I am proud to be a part of this special place that inspires a love of learning in teachers, children and their families. When I’m not working I try to keep fit and spend some time outdoors, watch a good film, read, visit my family and enjoy time with friends.
Mandy
I am the Head Teacher at Learning Land Preschool. I have been working at Learning Land since 2007 and previous to that; working with children aged 2 to 6 years old since 1995. I qualified as a Montessori Directress in 1996 and then achieved my Bachelor of Primary Education (Early Childhood) through the University of South Africa in 2002. I emigrated with my family from South Africa in 2004 to Nelson. I have two daughters who are both young adults; Tamlyn and Katey. I live with my partner Nui and our Jack Russell named Chip. I love reading, music and enjoying the outdoors. In my opinion all humans are born equal with the right to be nurtured, loved and respected. I believe we learn and retain learning best when we feel secure, are enjoying our time and are eager to learn more. Each day I will strive to instill a love of learning, guiding the children to a positive learning disposition, which they can rely on throughout their lives. I look forward to meeting and getting to know you and your children.
Nick
Hi I’m Nick Derecourt. I studied through the Canterbury University College of Education and completed a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood). My studies and own experiences have helped me value open honest communication with parents and children. I love art and creative thinking and try to provoke experimentation, independence and the sharing of ideas. I love the idea that we can help foster an interest in lifelong learning in the children who come to Learning Land. The foundation to everything is warm reciprocal relationships. I am married to Sarah and we have two amazing daughters.
Willow
My name is Willow Sherwood. I completed my Bachelor of Education (ECE, Specialty Montessori) in 2004. In education I am passionate about helping children develop independence, respect, literacy and growing authentic relationships with children and their whanau. My partner Brad and I have two children aged 9 and 3. Outside of work my passions are gardening, photography, cooking, preserving and finding vintage treasures at second hand stores.