Meet Our Educators

Nafisa Shahid

At Little Roses, we believe childhood is a time to be cherished, filled with curiosity, imagination, relationships, and joyful discovery. We view children as capable, confident learners who express themselves in many ways — through play, movement, conversation, art, exploration, and quiet reflection.

Partnership with families is central to our philosophy. We value open communication, shared decision-making, and meaningful connections with families, recognising that you know your child best. Together, we support children to develop confidence, independence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.

Sara Siddiqua

I am a passionate and dedicated Early Childhood Educator with over ten years of teaching experience, including eight years in India and more than two years in the Australian early learning sector. I hold a Master of Teaching (Early Childhood) from Monash University.

I am deeply committed to creating inclusive, engaging, and nurturing learning environments where children feel safe, confident, and supported to explore their ideas and develop a love of learning. I value building meaningful partnerships with families and working collaboratively with colleagues.

Fun fact: Outside the classroom, I enjoy cooking and gardening, and I also love travelling and meeting new people.

Rachael Barthelot

I am a passionate Early Childhood Educator with over five years of experience working with children and families. I was born and raised in Sri Lanka and come from a Eurasian ethnic community known as the Burghers. I speak both English and Sinhalese.

My teaching philosophy is grounded in creating a supportive, engaging, and inclusive environment that nurtures children's curiosity and supports their holistic development. I am currently in my final year of my Bachelor program and remain committed to ongoing professional learning.

Fun fact: I have previously worked as a car detailer and still do on weekends, so I can happily talk about cars, creativity, and cartoons! I have also studied music for over ten years.

Sakshi Sharma

I am a dedicated Early Childhood Educator with over three years of experience supporting children's learning and development. I am currently studying towards a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and hold a master's degree in mathematics.

I am passionate about creating rich, play-based learning experiences that nurture children's curiosity, confidence, and growing independence. I value building warm, respectful relationships with children and families and believe that a welcoming, inclusive environment helps every child feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

Fun fact: I enjoy travelling, reading, exploring different cultures, dancing, and music.

Chitra Majumdar

I am a highly dedicated and qualified Early Childhood Educator with over six years of experience shaping the minds of little learners. Pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Education, I bring a deep understanding of developmental milestones and evidence-based teaching to my classroom.

As a Lead Educator, I am known for my collaborative leadership style and my commitment to the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF). I am a passionate advocate for nature-based learning and sensory play, and I firmly believe that every child deserves a supportive environment where they can explore, discover, and reach their full potential.

Fun fact: In my leisure time I love to travel places with my husband, listen to music, try new cuisine and play with my little one.

Kavi Amurthaweera

I previously worked in public health before transitioning into early childhood education, with the long-term goal of becoming a primary school teacher. Beginning my journey in early learning has helped me better understand the developmental stages that shape children's growth and learning.

I believe children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful interactions with their environment. I enjoy creating engaging learning spaces that encourage curiosity, confidence, and active participation. I am also passionate about incorporating sports and physical activity into learning to support children's wellbeing, teamwork, and overall development.

Refaea Sifat

Originally from Bangladesh, I hold a Certificate IV in Kitchen Management and a Graduate Diploma. I am passionate about preparing nutritious, child-friendly meals that support children's health and development.

At Little Roses Childcare, I am committed to maintaining high standards of food safety, hygiene, and quality. I take pride in creating wholesome and enjoyable meals in a safe and caring environment. I enjoy cooking a variety of fresh and healthy dishes that children love.