I started my journey in Early Childhood Education by subbing and volunteering at Cowichan Preschool in 2013. I spent the next nine years working in a multi-age child care centre and operating my own in home daycare. I was honoured when I was offered the position of teacher/manager and given the opportunity to return to Cowichan Preschool where I first discovered my passion of working with children. During my free time I enjoy spending time at the lake camping, travelling, going on adventures with my dog Honey, and being with my family and friends.

Lia McLeod completed the Early Childhood Education and Care program at Malaspina University-College in the spring of 2002.  Since then she has worked as an Early Childhood and Special Needs Educator in a variety of childcare settings within the Cowichan Valley.

In 2014 she completed the 200 hour yoga teacher training at Harmony Yoga Centre in Duncan. She then created Stretch and Shine Kids Yoga, a children’s yoga program that was implemented into a number of preschool and childcare centres, and community facilities throughout the Cowichan Valley.

Lia is very happy to have now landed as a full time teacher at Cowichan Preschool, which she thinks is a very special place and a true treasure in the community.

Catherine Amey has worked at Cowichan Preschool since 2011.  Having taken an extended break to start her own family, she has now returned to the Preschool and enjoys supporting all children in developing new skills and increasing their self confidence through play-based learning.  Cat’s strengths lie in her patience, empathy, and playful approach towards child development.  She recognizes the individual in each child and strives to encourage all children through their successes and challenges. 

Cat holds a Masters Degree in Human Health and Nutritional Science and has been recently awarded her Assistant Certificate in Early Childhood Education. 

Outside of the Preschool Cat also enjoys working for Bamboletta dolls, creating timeless handcrafted toys, and exploring the region through hiking with her dog and backpacking trips with her kids.