Get in touch with us at heartleadnz@gmail.com
The Full Story
At HeartLead NZ, we believe the teacher is the most powerful resource in any early childhood setting. Our mission is to uplift, equip, and inspire educators to lead with heart, respond with intention, and create meaningful change in the lives of children.
HeartLead NZ was born from a growing need: teachers—especially those just starting out—are overwhelmed. Amid mounting pressures, complex behaviours, and global shifts like COVID-19, many educators feel unsure how to respond meaningfully to the needs of children.
We noticed a gap—between what teachers are expected to know and do, and the real, grounded support they actually receive. That’s where HeartLead steps in.
We support kaiako, leaders, and centres to move beyond behaviour management, toward therapeutic, trauma-informed, and play-based practices that honour the whole child.
Purpose
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To simplify the demands of ECE teaching.
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To reignite passion and purpose.
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To make research and theory
practical and usable.
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To empower educators to lead with clarity, confidence, and compassion.
Our Philosophy
We believe:
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Children thrive in relationships grounded in trust, empathy, and shared power.
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Play is not a luxury—it’s essential for healing, growth, and learning.
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Teachers deserve tools that are practical, beautiful, and aligned with our guiding documents (Te Whāriki, Te Kōrerorero).
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Leadership is not a role—it’s a way of being: authentic, people-focused, and always evolving.
HeartLead NZ is informed by neuroscience, attachment theory, trauma-informed practice, play therapy, and strong professional reflection. We’re here to help you build your kete of knowledge and show up for children in ways that truly matter.
About Gabby Dyet – Founder of HeartLead NZ
Kia ora, I’m Gabby—the heart behind HeartLead NZ.
With 10+ years in ECE, I’ve walked alongside teachers as a mentor, centre manager, lecturer, and PLD facilitator. I’ve seen first-hand the challenges our sector faces—and the transformative power of professional conversations rooted in trust, curiosity, and purpose.
I’m passionate about supporting:
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Student teachers to start strong
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Centre leaders to grow their teams
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All teachers to feel confident in who they are and how they teach
Whether you’re navigating complex behaviours, preparing for an ERO review, or just trying to stay inspired—I’m here for you.
What We Offer
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Reflective teaching and leadership resources
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Workshops, webinars & intentional teaching guides
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Mentoring for kaiako and team leaders
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Support with curriculum planning & documentation
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Centre-wide development and systems support
Who We Work With
You might be a new teacher finding your feet.
A team leader wanting to build capability.
A centre manager juggling people, practice, and paperwork.
Or someone who just wants to fall back in love with teaching again.
You are welcome here.
