Teachers Bright Start Educare

Kia Ora my name is Courtney Whyte. I am the team leader at Bright Start Educare, and I have been with the centre since October 2009. I am currently in my second year of full-time extramural study with Massey University Palmerston North to obtain my Bachelor of Education (ECE), Early Years 0-8. 
I have always had a great passion for children and enjoy being able to watch them learn new and exciting information. I love that I am able to bring my creativity and bubbly personality to work every day. As far as I am concerned, there is nothing more worthwhile than the smile of a child. Holding the responsibility to help them learn and nurture them to grow into members of society is very rewarding.
When I am not at Bright Start, or studying you will find me partaking in anything creative, baking, spending time with my family and friends, and enjoying the sunny days.


Hi Im Caroline. I immigrated to New Zealand from China with my family nine years ago. I live in Palmerston North with my husband, Jack. He works as a Food Technologist at Massy University. We have one son, Peter and he is studying Architecture at the University of Auckland.
After four-years training in the field of early childhood education, I changed myself from a Pharmaceutical Engineer into an early childhood teacher because I love children and found the new career more enjoyable.
I finished my studies with a Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) issued by NZ Childcare Association in 2007. I started my career as an early childhood teacher at Bright Start in October 2007. Since then I have completed my teacher registration study. I enjoy my time with children, their parents and staff here. I love children, and being loved back by the children. I am friendly, patient and warm-hearted in nature. I like singing, dancing, reading and cooking.

Tena Koe everyone. My name is Kelsi Mckay, and I am the newest   addition to the teaching team here at Bright Start. I live here in Palmerston North, but grew up in a small country town, called Dannivirke. In 2008 I moved to Palmerston North to study internally at Massey University. After 3 full-time years of study, I have recently obtained my Bachelor of Education (ECE) Early Years 0-8. I am very passionate and enthusiastic when it comes to both teaching and learning. I believe that not only is this a profession where we teach children, but one in which we to can learn a lot alongside and from them. Coming from such a small community based town has also impacted a lot on my teaching philosophy and values. As, I believe that relationships are the key to success regarding a child's ongoing learning journey. When I am not at Bright Start, I can often be found shopping up a storm at the Plaza, baking, drawing or spending time with family and friends. I look forward to getting to know you and working with and alongside you all.