Our Kaiako

Sophie Rooney

Founder & Centre Manager

My husband Kurt and I both grew up locally in South Canterbury. After both graduating with Bachelor of Education degrees at University we gained valuable experience teaching in many schools and Early Learning Centres in New Zealand and overseas.

Together we decided to create a new, unique centre in Timaru that offers children on a daily basis the opportunity to interact with nature.

I am passionate about the environment, love the outdoors and want to share my passion with the tamariki. I want tamariki at The Learning Barn to be able to run through grass and gardens, get muddy, jump in puddles, fall in love with animals and learn about the natural world around them.

You will see me daily in all the classrooms, outside and in the office.