OUR TEAM
The Bee-team

The directors of our centre are highly motivated professionals who organise and manage a great team.

All our staff are given guidance and ongoing support to reach professional satisfaction and growth. In turn they provide experiences and incorporate teaching opportunities that are deliberate and purposeful to help engage the children. We’re very proud of our staff as they help to lead each child from the exciting days of early learning, through a smooth transition into school.

The directors are your first point of call for any questions or concerns you may have. Now, let them tell you a little about themselves...

Nicole Fribence – Centre Director

I have been working in the children’s services industry for more than seventeen years and hold a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood). My experience is varied and extensive, ranging from centre-based services and schools to children's entertainment, dance and fitness, kids’ movement,
au pair work and creche management. I have a passion for dance and fitness – I hold dance and children’s yoga qualifications, as well as a Certificate IV in children’s fitness. I also have a strong interest in music, languages and the creative and visual arts. I believe that children should be provided with as many varied opportunities and experiences as possible in order to reach their full potential and that above all, their imagination, creative thinking and sense of wonder should be stimulated and nurtured.

An De Duytsche – Centre Director

I have a Bachelor in Primary Teaching degree from my home country Belgium. I found my way to Australia in 2009 after travelling for several years in Africa, Europe and Asia. I have five years experience working with children aged two to twelve years including one year working as an au pair for a family in Manly. I want children to obtain as many learning opportunities as they can, so they can develop into unique, cultural and intelligent people.

Vanessa Merchant – General Manager Operations

My experience of working with children spans twenty years, initially as a paediatric registered nurse and for the last thirteen years, as an Early Childhood Teacher. I hold a Bachelor of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) as well as an AMI Montessori 0-3 Diploma. I believe that all children should be given the opportunity to grow and discover, learn what they are able to do  and be encouraged to try new things, assisted by caring educators and families to develop to their full potential.