Meet Our Team Of Expert Educators
SAMANTHA - Owner / Director
Hi, my name is Samantha. I moved to Australia when I was 12 and attended high school and university on the Gold Coast. I graduated with a Bachelor of Education in 2002. Children are born ready to learn and their brains develop through use. At Jungle Gems, we have created stimulating and caring environments throughout all our rooms with a variety of activities that will give our precious gems plenty of ways to play and learn. Being a primary school teacher with years of experience, I know and understand the importance of being school ready. I value Early Childhood Education and am looking forward to working with your child to provide a smooth transition into the next, vital chapter of their lives.
NICOLE - Owner / Director
Hi, I’m Nicole. I have over 8 years experience in Primary Education before starting Jungle Gems with my sister in 2019. Samantha and I have worked hard to develop a childcare centre where we can establish a wonderful family focused environment so each child in our care is not just a number. I am passionate about education in the early years and I am looking forward to helping your child achieve their academic potential while investigating the world around them through fun, engaging and play based learning.
GRETA - Director
Hi, I am Greta. I have Bachelor in Teaching and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and care. I have been working in childcare settings since 2017. I am very passionate about working with children as I believe each child is a unique individual who needs nurturing, stimulating, inspiring and a challenging environment in which to grow and develop. I am passionate to work closely with the Jungle Gems team and help them grow as professionals. I believe that everyone brings different qualities which makes our team amazing.
MARGIE – Bush Babies Lead
My name is Margie Tolcher, and I have dedicated the past 20 years to working with children. I hold a diploma in childcare.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of age groups, gaining valuable experience and knowledge along the way.
One aspect that sets me apart is my strong involvement in programming and planning. I thrive on finding new and exciting ways to foster learning and development through play and interactive activities. It brings me immense joy to witness children grow and thrive in an environment that encourages their curiosity and imagination.
Living locally, I am fortunate to have access to beautiful beaches, charming cafes, and the great outdoors. In my leisure time, I find solace in music and the joy of getting lost in a good book. Yet, my ultimate happiness springs from quality time spent with loved ones aboard our boat, where my partner and I have made our home.
KEIRA - Bush Babies
Hi, my name is Keira. I have my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and am looking to further my studies to become Diploma qualified. I have been working in childcare for 5 years, two of those years doing a traineeship. Looking after my younger siblings and cousins is what inspired me to pursue a career in Childcare. I love children and believe in providing each with equal opportunity to learn and develop through their own curiosity and adventures.
SARAH – Trainee Educator
Hi, my name is Sarah and I am currently working towards completing my Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care. What inspired me to work in childcare is the enjoyment I take from caring for my younger cousins and nieces. I love working with children and making a positive impact on their lives, helping them grow and learn about the world around them.
ALANA – Little Cubs Lead
Hi, my name is Alana. I have been working in the childcare industry for the last 17 years and hold my Diploma of Children Services. Working with children has given me such purpose in my life and it is something I truly feel I was born to do.
My goal as an educator is to create nurturing and welcoming environment so that children and their families feel safe and also encourage them to discover, create, learn and play. I love seeing children challenge themselves, ask lots of questions and see them thrive under positive reinforcement. I am here to help them as they strive to be the best they can be. When I am not working my world seems to still revolve around children as I love spending all my free time with my family especially my niece and nephew.
KYLIE – Little Cubs
Hi, my name is Kylie. I’ve been working in childcare since 2020 and I’m Diploma qualified in early childhood education.
I have a daughter of my own and she is the reason I decided to pursue a career in childcare. When I started to look for daycares for her I noticed a lot of unsettled children and not enough attentiveness. I wanted to be that change, I wanted to be that educator that is a safe space for your child in their home away from home.
As an educator I love to encourage risky play, exploring natural, creativity and I like to allow the child to explore their own limitations and strengths before jumping in to help.
When I’m not here as an educator I’m working hard on my small business teaching and creating textured art and going on adventures with my family. No drive is to far to see something really cool so if you have any suggestions I’d love to know.
JORJA - Little Cubs
Hi my name is Jorja. I have worked in the childcare industry since 2017 so far and I have a certificate III. I have just recently relocated to QLD from rural NSW. I love working with children and being a part of their early years as their young minds begin to shape and develop. I began my childhood career in a Preschool centre which I loved because it allowed me to help young children develop their emotional and social readiness skills before going off to school. In recent years I have worked in long daycare where I enjoy working with a range of different ages and love being involved in their learning and development.
KERRIE – Little Cubs
Hi, my name is Kerrie. In 2012, a sea change from Sydney to the Gold Coast opened up opportunities to work in schools but my passion for the early years of childhood became obvious after doing my Cert 3 in childcare gaining experience primarily with the 2-3yo age group. Fascinated by the fact that 90% of a child’s brain develops by the age of 5, and passionate about seeing the beautiful change from a baby to a toddler, I am eager to be apart of your child’s development and see them develop life skills, develop confidence in who they are, and develop resilience to keep putting in the effort to pursue their goals. I believe a child who feels safe will thrive and through patience, consistency and routine, so I am intentional in growing a relationship with your child to grow confidence in themselves so they can develop connections. A child who feels a sense of belonging and ownership within their environment can thrive and then be curious enough to learn, explore, experiment and create. And wow, that’s exciting, especially here at Jungle Gems.
My key attribute would be being teachable. I love to learn from others and I love for others to learn. I have an eclectic taste in music; of interest, I conducted a children’s choir for 10+ years at a church in Sydney in my 20’s. My Christian faith, family, music, and kindness are key to my joy for life.
YOKO – Support All Rooms
Hi! My name is Yoko Adams. I moved to Gold Coast 8 years ago from Kyoto, Japan. I am a mother of 5 and 7 year old sons. I am currently working towards a Cert III in Early Childhood Education and Care. I think each day is different when working in an early childhood center and it is very rewarding for me. My personal philosophy reflects a child-centered approach to education, emphasising the importance of play-based learning, especially nature play, fostering imagination, and promoting confidence and self-directed learning. However, the most important thing for me is to connect and create a safe space for each child. This strongly relates to how I felt when having my own children attend early childhood centres. I look forward to meeting you and working with your children to enhance their enjoyment and development while at the service.
JADE – Support All Rooms
Hi, I’m Jade! I’m a Diploma-qualified educator currently studying a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education online through Curtin University. I relocated to the Gold Coast from Sydney and am excited to be part of the Jungle Gems team. My partner and I are enjoying exploring the area, especially hiking, camping, and trying new places to eat.
With over nine years of experience in early childhood education, I’ve worked across a variety of age groups and roles. I’m passionate about play-based learning, creating inclusive environments, and building strong, respectful relationships with children, families, and colleagues. I believe children are capable, confident learners, and I enjoy designing experiences that spark curiosity, creativity, and connection.
I’m really looking forward to getting to know the children and families at Jungle Gems and contributing to a warm, supportive, and joyful learning environment.
TAIGA – Meerkats Lead
Hi, my name is Taiga, I am originally from New Zealand and moved to the Gold Coast 7 years ago. I love living on the Gold Coast! Outside of work, you will find me watching the sunrise with my dog at the beach or looking for my new favourite cafe. I always knew that I wanted to work in a with children ever since I was young. I started my childcare journey in 2020 and have completed my Diploma of Early Childhood Education. One of my dreams in life is to be a mum as I have always had such a passion and love for children. I believe that it is important to build relationships with the children. I enjoy watching them grow, seeing them think outside of the box and using their imagination. I believe routines and transitions are important as it provides a sense of safety and security for children. Another important thing for me as being a Lead Educator is planning engaging activities to foster a stimulating environment for the children to thrive and grow in. I’m excited for this new chapter in my childcare journey and am so happy to be part of the Jungle Gems family!
BRONTE – Meerkats
Hi, my name is Bronte. I’m currently working as an assistant educator at Jungle Gems where I support each of the 4 rooms from babies through to the pre prep children. I hold a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care and I’m also completing my Bachelor of Speech Pathology. I hope to merge my expertise in these areas and provide a strong foundation for the children I support. I have a passion for being active and creative and enjoy expressing these traits through my teaching style. I believe that each child learns through play and I aim to help develop every Childs strengths, skills and knowledge.
NICCY - Meerkats / Mentor
Hi! I’m Nicole, the children know me as Miss Niccy. I hold a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. I have worked in childcare for 5 years now and absolutely love working with children. Previously a stay at home mum to my own two children, the early years as a whole continues to amaze me and I enjoy being a part of facilitating the needs and learning of children of all ages. The vast majority of my experience in childcare to date is within the babies to 3 year old age group. Currently caring for the Little Cubs as a part of the Jungle Gems Family, I am passionate about providing a nurturing and secure environment ensuring your little gem feels a sense of belonging, whilst also being able to learn and grow into their individual self through wonder and play.
BONNIE – Giraffes ECT
Hello I’m Bonnie. I love my job here at Jungle Gems working originally with the Bush Babies then graduated to assist across each of our 4 rooms and now taking on the ECT roll within the Giraffes class. I grew up on a small family farm in the Gold Coast hinterland and enjoy spending time with my older sister and our animals. Helping to hand rear the newborn animals on the farm is what inspired me to become involved with childcare. I have completed a Diploma in Childcare and am currently working towards completing my teaching degree. Every day is a blessing as I just love children, contributing positively towards each child’s development is very rewarding for me and I take great joy in guiding the children towards achieving milestones and developing life skills setting the foundations for each child in becoming a confident and competent learner and setting them up for success.
MARIE – Giraffes Assistant
Hi, my name is Marie, I am originally from the United Kingdom. I moved to Australia in December 2023. I hold a Bachelor of Education (hons) degree and Diploma in Education and Care. While I was in the UK, I taught in Primary Schools and Early Years settings for 26 years. My previous Early Learning Centre, Forest School, had a focus on nature and natural habitats, thus I am an advocate for learning in the outdoors, building resilience, independence and problem-solving skills. I believe that all children learn in different ways and at different rates, so I tailor my teaching to their individual needs, interests and personalities.
NATALIE - Support All Rooms
Hi, I am Natalie. I hold a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care. I am very happy to be part of the Jungle Gems family and be able to help the team and children grow as individuals to the best of their abilities. I am delighted to be working with a caring team that is passionate about creating a positive, safe and caring environment for children to develop, learn and play.
MORVEN - Support All Rooms
Hi, my name is Morven, and I have recently moved to the Gold Coast from Perth. I hold my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and have been working with children since November 2023. I am passionate about creating a safe and nurturing environment where children feel valued and supported as they grow and learn. I especially enjoy building strong relationships with children and families, planning creative activities, and supporting their development and confidence. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of their milestones, and I’m excited to continue making a positive impact on their early years.
ALYSSA - Trainee Educator
Hi I’m Alyssa and I am working towards finishing my Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care. Growing up I’ve always been surrounded by my younger cousins and It’s always great fun whenever I have an opportunity to look after them. I enjoy looking after children and making them feel safe and comfortable while also making them laugh and smile. I am excited to join the Jungle Gems family where I can gain knowledge and experience from such a wonderful and professional team.
ANNELISE – Trainee Educator
Hi, my name is Annelise. I’m currently working towards completing my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Growing up as the eldest child in a large family, I’ve had plenty of adventures babysitting my younger siblings, which later extended to babysitting for other families. I’ve also coached gymnastics and am qualified through AUSTSWIM as a Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety.
I’m passionate about promoting equal opportunities for all children. Growing up in a small town, I actively contributed to this cause by volunteering at a community radio station, directing a school holiday arts camp and organizing projects to raise awareness about youth mental health. I look forward to supporting your children in their journey here at Jungle Gems.
GAIL – Reception
Hi, I’m Gail. I have been part of the Jungle Gems journey from the beginning. I have seen my two daughters, Samantha and Nicole, spend countless hours bringing this dream to life. The girls always said they wanted a family run centre and that’s exactly what they have created. You’ll see me on the front desk welcoming all our little gems. I’ll also be putting my bookkeeping skills to good use and making sure all the behind the scenes paperwork is kept in check.
I look forward to greeting you as you walk through reception.
PETER – Builder
Hello I’m Peter, otherwise known as Mr Peter! I have many years experience in owning and operating a variety of different business’ originally in South Africa and for the past 26 years here at home in Australia. The majority of this time I’ve run our family construction company SAMCOL Homes. Ever since we immigrated to Australia it’s been my dream to become involved in an industry where there would be opportunities for my two daughters, Samantha & Nicole to contribute within the business. The girls both decided to study teaching and I’m proud to say that I’ve seen them excel in this profession for many years. As the girls passion for business grew stronger and their love of teaching never dwindling, we made the decision as a family to combine all our expertise and the idea that is now Jungle Gems was born.
After completion of the build of our state of the art facility I thought my job was done. Little did I know that it was only the beginning! The girls refer to me as the ‘father figure’ of the centre and I take great joy in ensuring our facility is well maintained.
KALE – Admin & Ball Skills
Hi I’m Kale and I am Samantha’s husband. I’ve grown up as part of a large family and am now a father myself as well as uncle to 13 nieces and nephews. The old “takes a village to raise a child” saying certainly rings true in my family.
I have a Certificate 3 in Childcare as well as a Certificate 3 in Outdoor Recreation, a Certificate 4 in Small Business Management and a Diploma in Screen & Media. My role at Jungle Gems is largely behind the scenes, I take care of our policies and procedures as well as risk mitigation, our media & website. I also love teaching a weekly Ball Skills lesson as well as helping with lunch relief & assisting in the play ground.
I am a strong advocate for experiential learning and adventurous play. My philosophy is centred around the belief that children learn best when engaged in their own natural interest & exploring their curiosities. I look forward to welcoming you and your family to Jungle Gems.
