Meet the Teachers
Meet the Team

Owner / Managing Director and Qualified Kaiako
Alesha Smith
The face behind Flora & Fauna. . .
Flora & Fauna has been a little seed that I have been nurturing for the past 5 years and after a lot of hard work it is finally becoming a reality
I am a qualified, fully registered Teacher with a passion for providing children and families with quality care and education.
I grew up on a farm and this is where my passion for animals and nature began. During my 10years as an Early childhood teacher I have witnessed the fabulous development children have when they learn in nature and alongside animals, this is where the concept of Flora & Fauna blossomed from.
I am a mother of two beautiful children and an Aunty to two gorgeous girls, they are my world being a Mother and Aunty helps me to relate to families as I understand how important it is to find the perfect place to care for and educate your precious children
I look forward to meeting you all and showing you just how amazing our beautiful boutique preschool is!

Qualified Kaiako
Amy Gillies
Kia Ora, my name is Amy.
I have enjoyed many wonderful years as an early childhood teacher, and this has provided me with both the experience and knowledge in facilitating for tamariki a quality education. One that supports them to learn, grow, and thrive, along with inspiring them to build on their curiosity and sense of wonder, to become socially competent and empathetic, while promoting joy and happiness within my practice as well.
I believe that relationships are at the heart of education, and I strive to build strong, respectful, and reciprocal relationships within my community.
Along with my husband and our two sons, we have called Morrinsville home for the past few years, and we love living here.
In my spare time I enjoy gardening, reading, baking, catching up with family and friends, and exploring and enjoying our beautiful natural environment.
I am really excited about joining the lovely teaching team at Flora and Fauna, and I look forward to building genuine relationships with you and your tamariki, and our wonderful community, within a trustworthy, supportive, empowering, and enriching environment.
I look forward to working alongside you to meet the aspirations you have for your tamariki.

Qualified Teacher
Gemma Clark
Kia Ora Koutou, my name is Gemma and I have had the privilege of teaching young minds for nine years. My husband Wayne and I have recently made the move out to Morrinsville with our two young children, Luke and Keira and are loving being a part of this close-knit community. It is a great pleasure to be a part of a young child's journey and I feel very fortunate to be able to support, guide and nurture our young tamariki in those very important early years! I value the importance of warm, reciprocal relationships and providing an environment that is welcoming, safe and engaging. In my spare time, I love being outdoors, being around animals, or getting cozy with a good book! I can't wait to be a part of the Flora and Fauna whānau and build some wonderful partnerships in this beautiful community!
Ngā mihi,
Gemma

Qualified Teacher
Ashlee Cushion
Kia Ora my name is Ashlee.
I have worked in the early childhood sector since 2012 and my experience has given me a wide range of skills, as well as an in-depth understanding of children’s diverse needs. I have a heart for people and believe that relationships are vital to support the child and the family to blossom in their early childhood journey. I place great value on quality experiences that support children in building their social skills and understanding. I enjoy developing relationships with each individual child to learn what ‘lights’ them up. I have a love of nature and enjoy being active. In my spare time you will find me outside exploring what our beautiful country has to offer with my husband and two-year-old daughter. I am excited to be a part of the team at Flora and Fauna and I look forward to meeting you and your family.