Early Years

Hello, My name is Ms. Anisa van der Laan. I am from the UK, but grew up abroad and have been educated internationally. I have lived in Thailand for the past 11 years, and enjoy living here in Phuket very much. I hold a Certificate of Early Learning and Childhood Development as well as a Certificate in Childcare in addition to Teaching Certificates for ‘Primary Education’ and ‘Teaching English as a Second Language’. I have been educating and caring for young children (18 months to 5 years) for the past 8 years (specifically here in Phuket at HeadStart since its beginnings as a small Home School Centre 6 years ago).

I was inspired to pursue my qualifications in Early Learning as I have two children of my own, and was closely involved in their education throughout their early years. As I have had the experience of watching my own children develop in their education, I understand both from a parent’s and teacher’s perspective the importance of this early stage. I love art and creativity in general, and love to instill this in the little ones by making available various supplies and media with which they can be creative. Giving them this opportunity to express themselves artistically is a very important part of their development. I also love cooking, and will from time to time have kiddy cooking classes with the children. Using all their 5 senses and allowing them to get involved and learn about new scents, flavours and textures.

Our children’s safety and well-being is of paramount importance to us on the Early Years’ team. Please feel free to speak with me and my assistant about any issues or preferences in the care of your child. Keeping an open line of communication between the Teachers and Parents is a very important part of effective education. I love and immensely enjoy educating young children, and feel it’s a privilege to be able to teach them through songs, play and discovery. I look forward to lots of fun while creating happy memories for them to later look back on.