Meet the Team

  • Margarita

    Margarita Sampayo

    OWNER & TEACHER

    I'm Margarita, the Owner and Centre Manager at Little Dinosaurs, and it's my pleasure to welcome you to our community. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Auckland, I'm dedicated to creating a nurturing and enriching environment for our young learners.

    Originally from Russia, I embarked on my journey in early childhood education in New Zealand back in 2014. Guided by the fundamental principles of respect and open communication, my teaching philosophy at Little Dinosaurs is a testament to the core values that underpin every interaction within our community.

    Working alongside my dedicated team, I take joy in guiding and supporting them, always leading by example. My commitment extends to my own family, as my son, Conor, is also a part of the Little Dinosaurs community. Outside work, catch me doing CrossFit or enjoying a movie.

  • Dhanu

    Dhanu Ravichandar

    TEACHER

    I'm Dhanu Ravichandar from Sri Lanka. I have a Postgdraduate Diploma and Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education). I've been an Early Childhood Teacher in New Zealand for the past 8 years.

    I believe that children learn from the people, places and things in their environment. The learning experiences that provided like art, culture and music helps to extend children's learning.

    I enjoying singing and dancing with tamariki. Learning, recreating and introducing those songs from various different languages and cultures to children are my passion in my teaching journey.

  • Sarah

    Sarah Lee

    TEACHER

    I am Sarah, a teacher at Little Dinosaurs. I have a degree in Interior Architecture and Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education. Originally from Singapore, I have a multicultural background and I am fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese.

    My background contributes towards my strengths in cultural sensitivity and ability to build rapport in a multicultural setting. I am an experienced and creative early childhood teacher who is committed to supporting children to explore and develop their creativity!

    I have always believed that children learn best through play and I am thrilled to be part of the centre which shares this philosophy. In my spare time, l enjoy photography, reading storybooks and exploring various forms of visual art such as painting, origami and calligraphy.