OWNER & TEACHER

I'm Margarita, the Owner and Centre Manager at Little Dinosaurs, and it's my pleasure to welcome you to our community. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Auckland, I'm dedicated to creating a nurturing and enriching environment for our young learners.

Originally from Russia, I embarked on my journey in early childhood education in New Zealand back in 2014. Guided by the fundamental principles of respect and open communication, my teaching philosophy at Little Dinosaurs is a testament to the core values that underpin every interaction within our community.

Working alongside my dedicated team, I take joy in guiding and supporting them, always leading by example. My commitment extends to my own family, as my son, Conor, is also a part of the Little Dinosaurs community. Outside work, catch me doing CrossFit or enjoying a movie.

ACTING CENTRE MANAGER & TEACHER

Kia ora!
My name is May Sampayo, originally from Goa, India, and while my roots are in India, New Zealand has been my home for many years. I am a proud mother of two and a grandmother to my joyful grandsons, Conor (who also attends Little Dinosaurs) and Noah.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts, a Diploma in Human Resources, and have recently completed my Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education. I am currently the Acting Centre Manager at Little Dinosaurs, supporting the centre while Margarita is on maternity leave. In my role, I work closely with the teaching team to ensure the centre runs smoothly and that our tamariki and whānau feel welcomed, supported, and valued. I enjoy contributing to both the educational and operational aspects of the centre and fostering a positive, collaborative team culture.

I am passionate about creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where children can explore, learn, and express themselves. I also believe in the power of storytelling to spark imagination, curiosity, and meaningful learning. Outside of work, I love staying active, exploring nature, and going on adventures with Conor and Noah. Whether visiting parks, discovering new places, or sharing stories and creative activities together, our time is always filled with fun, learning, and laughter.

TEACHER

I'm Dhanu Ravichandar from Sri Lanka. I have a Postgdraduate Diploma and Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education). I've been an Early Childhood Teacher in New Zealand for the past 8 years.

I believe that children learn from the people, places and things in their environment. The learning experiences that provided like art, culture and music helps to extend children's learning.

I enjoying singing and dancing with tamariki. Learning, recreating and introducing those songs from various different languages and cultures to children are my passion in my teaching journey.

TEACHER

I am Sarah, a teacher at Little Dinosaurs. I have a degree in Interior Architecture and Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education. Originally from Singapore, I have a multicultural background and I am fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese.

My background contributes towards my strengths in cultural sensitivity and ability to build rapport in a multicultural setting. I am an experienced and creative early childhood teacher who is committed to supporting children to explore and develop their creativity!

I have always believed that children learn best through play and I am thrilled to be part of the centre which shares this philosophy. In my spare time, l enjoy photography, reading storybooks and exploring various forms of visual art such as painting, origami and calligraphy.

TEACHER

Kia ora, my name is Xinyi Xu (Nini).
I am from China and graduated from Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. I am very pleased to be a kaiako at Little Dinosaurs.

I have two years of experience working in both full-time and part-time roles within kindergarten settings. I bring a strong interest and background in music and enjoy using my musical strengths to support children’s holistic development, including their creativity, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.

My teaching philosophy is grounded in respect for cultural diversity and creating rich, meaningful learning experiences where every child feels valued and supported. I am passionate about nurturing children’s curiosity and helping them grow through engaging, inclusive, and joyful learning experiences.

RELIEVING TEACHER

Kia ora! My name is Jenny, and I hold a Diploma in Primary Teaching from Auckland Teacher Training College. I’m originally from Northland, Aotearoa (New Zealand).

I have been part of the Little Dinosaurs community for around seven years, starting part-time and later transitioning to casual relieving. During this time, I’ve built strong and meaningful relationships with many tamariki and their families.

With a primary teaching background, I bring extensive knowledge and experience in early literacy and supporting priority learners. I believe in nurturing children’s individuality with gentleness and respect, following their cues and interests to guide their learning journey.

I’m also a proud mum to three wonderful children—Jemma (23), Holly (20), and Josh (15)—all of whom have been part of the Little Dinosaurs whānau.

I’m excited to continue this journey of learning and growth with Little Dinosaurs, supporting our tamariki as they thrive.

RELIEVING TEACHER

Kia ora, I am Xander.
I am from Beijing, China, and I am currently studying towards a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education at NZTC. I speak both Mandarin and English and enjoy working in a multicultural environment alongside children and their whānau. I currently work with Little Dinosaurs as a reliever.

I am inspired by Te Whāriki’s belief that children learn and grow through responsive and reciprocal relationships. I believe that when tamariki feel respected, listened to, and valued, they naturally develop curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning.

My teaching approach focuses on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where tamariki feel a strong sense of belonging, are empowered in their learning, and are free to express themselves. I enjoy exploring nature, music, and art with children, and I love incorporating stories and languages from different cultures into our programme. I also have a passion for photography and enjoy capturing meaningful moments of tamariki as they learn, explore, and connect.