Meet the team

Centre Director

Cate Larke is the Director and owner of the centre and over sees all programming. Cate is a primary school teacher with 25 years experience in both the private and public sector. She has training & practical experience in  neuro education and sensory integration ( International Neuro Education Academy 2002-2004- Toddler Kindy Gymbaroo).  Learning Connections (2004) and has done further tertiary level, post graduate study and training with Extra Lesson®  (2005-2008). She is an authorised provider of The Listening Program® and has a special interest in boys education. Cate is married with 2 children , 10 and 6 years. 

“I am delighted to be able to bring this progarmme to the parents of Newcastle.  I have spoken to so many parents with older children, who are amazed to find out how the early years impact later learning.”

Centre Manager

Pamela

Pamela has had a variety of roles in administration and accounting, and is currently the centre manager for Essential Moves and Essential Play.Pamela is also a proactive parent- helping on school fund raising commitees, canteen and in the classroom. She has also been involved as a volunteer with the scouting movement for 20 years and is currently a “cub” leader.

I enjoy working with the children and parents and it is wonderful to see the improvements and development in both self esteem and in their academic work.I firmy believe it is up to the whole community to support and guide children so that they truly can be “the best they can be”.I love my job as it is so rewarding!

Teachers

Kelly 

Kelly has extensive and varied experience in a range of Early childhood settings. She has worked for 20 years in preschools, long day care &  OOSH  as a teacher , then as an authorised supervisor and in private enterprise.  Kelly has worked as a teacher for Newcastle Gymbaroo and more recently as a teacher at Essential Moves. Kelly has tertiary qualifications in social science (child studies) , and training in Neuro education & programmes (International Neuro Education Academy  & Essential Moves Pty Ltd).  Kelly loves music and singing and all her lessons reflect this passion for music.She has had extensive experience in developing innovative early childhood programs & is married with three children aged 8. 6 & 3 years.

“I am excited about the program I will be delivering at Essential Play on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. This is new, stimulating and fun! I don’t believe there is anything like it in Newcastle. I am thrilled to be part of a company that wants to bring literature to life!  I am positive that both children and parents will be ecstatic about this programme.”

Assistants

Carol

Melinda

Melissa