Our Exceptional Teaching Team
At Premier Preschool, we take pride in our highly qualified and passionate educators who are committed to nurturing your child's growth and development. Our dedicated team looks forward to welcoming you and your child into our learning community.
Jiana Lyu
Registered Teacher, Owner
Kia Ora! Ni Hao!
I am Jiana Lyu (佳佳), a certified early childhood educator with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Victoria University of Wellington. Originally from Inner Mongolia, China, my multicultural background brings unique perspectives and passion to children's education.
As the Owner of Premier Preschool Johnsonville, I uphold an educational philosophy centered on "nurturing with love and respect." I advocate for child-led learning approaches, with a strong focus on developing emotional regulation, social skills, and resilience in tamariki (children).
Beyond early childhood education, I work as a dance instructor and teach Chinese at Wellington Chinese Language School. I am passionate about sharing my enthusiasm through arts and education within the community.
Committed to creating a caring and supportive environment for children to thrive, I look forward to collaborating with whānau (families) to witness each child's growth and development.
Hatesa Vailoa
Registered Teacher
Kia Ora! Talofa!
My name is Hatesa (Tesa for short), a qualified Early Childhood Education (ECE) teacher with a Bachelor’s degree from Victoria University of Wellington. I am deeply passionate about fostering cultural diversity and language in early learning, recognizing their vital role in shaping children’s identities and daily experiences.
I believe every child’s cultural background is foundational to their individuality and growth as learners. My teaching philosophy centers on celebrating these differences, integrating cultural awareness and language into daily learning to create an inclusive and empowering environment.
I look forward to collaborating with you and your child at Premier Preschool Johnsonville, nurturing their unique journey together.
Belinda Diao
Registered Teacher
Kia Ora! NiHao!
My name is Yanning Diao (Belinda), a qualified teacher with a Graduate Diploma in Primary Education from Victoria University of Wellington. With a background in New Zealand education, I am passionate about incorporating play-based learning and cultural diversity into my teaching, creating a safe, respectful, and joyful environment where every child can thrive.
I believe that a child’s cultural background and language are integral to their identity and provide a meaningful foundation for their learning journey. I strive to weave each child’s language, culture, and interests into daily activities—supporting them to build confidence, develop a strong sense of self, and grow their social and communication skills through rich interactions with others. I also deeply value open communication and collaboration with whānau, recognizing that strong home-school partnerships are essential in supporting every child’s holistic development.
I look forward to joining you and your tamariki at Premier Preschool Johnsonville and walking alongside you as we nurture their journey to becoming brave, confident, and joyful learners.
Suki Su
Teacher
Kia Ora! 你好 (Ni Hao)!
I’m Suki, a passionate early childhood educator with 10 years of experience in New Zealand’s diverse learning environments. Currently pursuing my Level 3 qualification in Early Childhood Education through Training For You, I am dedicated to fostering holistic development in young learners.
My teaching philosophy centers on creating safe, nurturing, and stimulating spaces where each child’s unique potential is celebrated. With a focus on social-emotional, cognitive, and physical growth, I aim to inspire confidence, curiosity, and kindness in every tamariki (child).
Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading and singing, which fuel my creativity and connection with children. Family is my anchor—my husband and daughter remind me daily of the values of patience, empathy, and joy that I bring to my practice.
I look forward to partnering with whānau (families) to create meaningful learning journeys. Let’s nurture and grow together!
Crinissa Olango
Teacher
Kia Ora! Mabuhay!
I’m Crinissa Olango, an experienced educator from the Philippines now contributing to New Zealand’s early childhood sector at Premier Preschool Johnsonville. With a BA in Psychology, Certified Teaching credentials, and 33 units toward a Master’s in Educational Administration, I bring nearly 20 years of specialized experience—including owning a therapy center and teaching diverse learners.
Currently pursuing a Level 3 Health and Wellbeing qualification (Careerforce NZ), I champion inclusive, relationship-based learning. My approach blends cultural responsiveness with individualized strategies to nurture each child’s confidence and curiosity.
Thank you for the opportunity to be part of this wonderful community. I look forward to contributing to the growth and development of our tamariki (children) and working alongside their whānau (families).