Meet Our Staff
Ashleigh Ligtenberg
Operational Manager
Ph: 027 302 0989
Email:admin@doriepreschool.co.nz
Kia Ora, I am Ashleigh.
I have been working at Dorie Preschool since 2022. I thoroughly enjoy working in a unique rural setting, amongst fabulous teaching staff and for a Centre that provides an excellent programme with large spaces for the children to explore with a variety of learning experiences.
I live in Rakaia with my partner, 7year old son and 1 year old daughter. In our spare time we love to get outdoors and spend time with friends and family.
You can find me in the Office 4days a week – Monday - Thursday. I look forward to getting to know you and your whanau 😊
Kiwi Room Kaiako
Jo Dennett
Kiwi Room: Curriculum Leader, Kaiako
Kia Ora,
My name is Jo, I have been working in the ECE sector for 15years. I started working at Dorie Community Preschool 8years ago, where I have spent 5years in the Kiwi Room (Nursery). I have lived in Rakaia for 20 years with my family and have been actively involved with local sport and clubs with my three now adult children.
Working with Tamariki, watching their imagination and creative skills grow through activities and play, and watching Tamariki learn and achieve for me is one of the best feelings.
Sindiswa Mshengu
Kiwi Room: Kaiako
Kia Ora,
My name is Sindiswa Mshengu, I am a preschool teacher with a heart for early childhood education.
I started working at Dorie Community Preschool last year (2024), I'm thrilled to work with a team of lovely colleagues and supportive parents, and I'm eager to continue growing as I pursue full qualification through the Teaching Council registration process here in NZ.
Airene Yap
Kiwi Room: Registered Kaiako
I’m Airene, and I’m delighted to be part of the team at Dorie Preschool. I’m from the Philippines and am currently undertaking postgraduate studies in Education at the University of Canterbury. I am a registered teacher in New Zealand with over 20 years of international teaching experience. I enjoy supporting children’s learning through play, creativity, music, and exploration. I believe every child learns best when they feel safe, happy, and valued, and I strive to create a caring and inclusive environment where children can grow with confidence. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, playing chess, and spending time with family and friends. I look forward to getting to know your children and their families.
Jordan Todd
Kiwi Room: Kaiako in Training
Kia Ora, my name is Jordan, and I am one of the Kaiako in the Kiwi room at Dorie Preschool.
I live in Rakaia with my four children, and I am currently in my first year of training to become a qualified ECE Teacher. I’m passionate about watching Tamariki learn and grow, and I look forward to being part of your Tamariki’s learning journey.
Kea Room Kaiako
Yvonne Dalglish
Kea Room: Head Kaiako
Kia Ora, my name is Yvonne.
I was born in Masterton and raised on a sheep and beef farm, which instilled in me a strong work and appreciation for rural life.
After completing my secondary schooling in Masterton, I trained to become a teacher in Wellington. My journey took me to the South Island, where I lived on a farm in Le Bons Bay, raising four children. After two decades away from teaching, I returned as Head Teacher on the peninsula before recently moving to Pendarves with my husband, who took on a new opportunity in cropping.
I look forward to meeting the Tamariki in our community.
Pania Rawiri
Kea Room: Registered Kaiako
Kia Ora, my name is Pania.
I have been living in Mid Canterbury for over 14 years and love it. I have been teaching in Ece for many years and love small rural living. I love animals especially dogs and horses.
Carol Melchers
Kea Room: Registered Kaiako
Kia ora, I'm Carol.
I’m originally from Hawke’s Bay but grew up in Ruapuna and attended Ashburton College. I also have strong family connections to Dorie, with relatives who farmed in the area, so it’s lovely to now be part of the Dorie Community Preschool whānau.
I have over 15 years of experience in early childhood education and feel privileged to support tamariki as they learn, grow, and discover the world around them. I love encouraging children to use their imaginations, explore through play, and follow their natural curiosity in a safe, nurturing environment.
I’m passionate about community-based education and building strong, positive relationships with tamariki, whānau, and colleagues. I’m excited to be part of the wonderful team at Dorie Community Preschool and look forward to getting to know all of our families.
Mia An
Kea Room: Registered Kaiako
Kia Ora, I’m Mia.
I’m really happy to be part of the team here at Dorie Community Preschool. I’m passionate about creating a calm, supportive environment where Tamariki feel safe, confident, and curious. I love seeing their personalities shine and watching them grow through everyday experiences and play. Being part of their learning journey is something I find special.
I live with my partner and our playful dog. In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, going for walks, and discovering hidden gems — especially cozy little cafes or spots with great food. I’m looking forward to connecting more with the wonderful Tamariki and whānau in our community.
Rayanne King
Kea Room: Registered Kaiako
Kia ora, my name is Rayanne.
I grew up on a sheep farm near Fairlie. I have been living in the Far North for 26 years and recently returned to the South to be near my mother who lives in Ashburton. I have been working in early childhood since I had my own children 26 years ago. My career path started with attending and studying with Playcentre.Then I went on to do home based childcare and pursuing my teaching degree (ECE). I have always loved working with children. I love to keep active by hiking, swimming and gardening in my spare time.
