Our Staff
Our Kindergarten Director is Liz Ryan.
Four year old educators are:
- Liz Ryan (Teacher)
- Anita May (Cert 111 Educator)
- Olivia
Three year old Educators are:
- Jaclyn Farrugia (Teacher)
- Anita May (Cert 111 Educator)
Teachers are employed by Early Childhood Management Services.
Liz Ryan – Centre Director and Kindergarten Teacher
In my 22 years at Somers Parade Kindergarten, I have been fortunate to develop lasting bonds and witness families grow. I now have children returning to do work experience with us!
I have really enjoyed working in the early childhood field for the past 40 fun-filled years. I am passionate about early childhood education and advocating for children and their families. I just absolutely love working with children and with our talented and dedicated team.
My career working with children and their families began in 1970 as a Mothercraft Nurse, followed by three years in the maternity ward at Werribee Hospital before taking time out to raise my own children, Jennifer and Paul.
I obtained my Diploma Certificate and worked in a Child Care Centre for several years before completing my Bachelor of Education – Early Childhood and moving to become a kindergarten teacher.
My qualifications
Bachelor of Education – Early Childhood at Victoria University
Diploma in Early Childhood – Victoria University
Mothercraft Nurse – Presbyterian Babies Home
My hobbies
China painting, mosaic, gardening, walking, travelling, playing ukulele
Jaclyn Farrugia – Kindergarten Teacher
My name is Jaclyn Farrugia (known as Jackie). I have a degree in both Early Childhood and Primary school education. I have been teaching children since 2004 in a variety of kindergarten settings and primary schools. I have been working at Somers Parade Kindergarten since 2013. I have two primary school aged sons who keep my husband and me busy. I have a high interest in developing children’s literacy skills through experiences such as storytelling and music. I also enjoy being outdoors with my family and discovering new places and opportunities for children to learn about the world we live in.
Olivia Marchioni- kindergarten assistant
My name is Olivia Marchioni, I hold a diploma in early childhood education and care and have over 15 years experience educating children. I consider myself very lucky to be able to play such a pivotal part in the learning journey of children and am passionate about providing a holistic approach to development and learning. I joined the Somers parade team in 2023, although I’m only relatively new to the team, it already feels like home. I have an interest in writing, yoga, breathwork and pilates. I have two young boys and enjoy connecting with nature, spending time near the water and walking our dogs
Anita May – Certificate III Educator
I am originally from Jakarta, Indonesia. I speak Indonesian and a little German from some time spent living in Germany. I have one grown-up daughter and a fur baby that I love very much.
I have been working in kindergartens for 18 years, with 10 of these years spent at Somers Parade Kindergarten. I also have a background in scouting and was a scout leader for 10 years. I really enjoy the outdoor environment and spending time in nature.
I believe that every child is special in their own way and I like to support their individual needs so they reach their full potential.
Lisa Richards
My name is Lisa Richards. I have a degree in Early Childhood and Primary School Education. I have taught predominately in Prep (Foundation) in my 9+ years in Education, starting my teaching career in Ballarat before making the move to Altona five years ago. I have found a real joy in joining the dedicated Somers Parade team. I have a deep passion for supporting children’s love of learning and developing a healthy and positive mindset and belief in self. Outside of kindergarten, you will find me enjoying my time and keeping busy with my family. We have two young children, Micah and Finley and we enjoy time spent being outdoors, especially at the beach.