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An experienced & talented team

Gecko Garden School has over 20 staff, including internationally qualified and local teachers, teacher assistants and support staff.

The school is led by our Director, Mary Velasco, who is supported by an Operations Manager and an Administration Assistant on the administrative side.

Gecko Garden School students are taught by a group of dedicated and inspiring individuals. The kindergarten classes are taught by international teachers. The preschool classes are taught by experienced local teachers. Our local teachers have a combined total of more than 60 years with the school and our 12 Teacher Assistants have more than 80 years of service between them.

We consider the ongoing training and development of our staff as vital. Gecko Garden School sends teachers for Waldorf training internationally every year, and invites Waldorf teaching experts and mentors to visit our school and provide training in Cambodia. These trainings are open to the community and anyone who is interested in learning more about Waldorf education.

Introducing Mary Velasco, School Director

Mary Velasco joined Gecko Garden School as an international teacher in 2009 and commenced as Director in 2017. She completed her Bachelor of Education in 2006 at Philippine Normal University and is completing a Masters in Education Management through the Philippine Women’s University. She has been inspired by Waldorf education since learning of it during her undergraduate studies.

“I have been lucky to witness and experience first-hand how Gecko Garden School is a truly wonderful place for nurturing children in their fundamental years. I am a strong advocate for play-based learning. Here at Gecko Garden School, teachers and parents work together to guide children to be the best they can be and at the same time create wonderful memories to cherish. This is what makes us unique compared to other preschools and kindergartens in Phnom Penh.”

"After taking a short detour with another preschool we opted to enrol both of our girls at Gecko Garden School, which definitely turned out to be the best decision. We immediately felt the warmth of the school as we stepped in. The lovely teachers, the size,... a super homey feeling, where my girls love to come every day. We particularly love the creativity of the teachers with arts and crafts – I am surprised every day with a new masterpiece brought home."

Mother of 2 and 4 year olds, Hungary

"The first thing that hits you when you walk through the Gecko Garden School gates is a massive wave of warmth. There is a sense of belonging, a feeling of joy, and the sounds of happiness resonating from behind those magic gates that warms our hearts. To be able to leave our child (and soon to be our children) in an environment where they are not just nurtured, but loved as well, is a testament to how everyone in the school truly believes in what they do. Kudos and thank you everyone at Gecko Garden!"

Mother of 2 year old, India & Sri Lanka

"To be honest I didn’t search extensively for a preschool for our child. As soon as we entered the school I could tell that he would be happy growing and developing here with such an experienced group of teachers. Being a parent-run school also gave me the satisfaction of knowing that my child would be growing up in a community and not just another child in a system."

Father of Gecko student, UK

"Of all the things we love about Phnom Penh, Gecko Garden Preschool is at the top of the list! Our son is thriving with the guidance and encouragement of his wonderful teachers and teacher assistants. He loves going to school! We love being part of this amazing community of talented teachers and dedicated parents."

Mother of Tadpole student, USA

"It’s the most wonderful feeling when your children are excited to go to school. Gecko Garden Preschool has been a second family for our children. I trust the staff 100% to care for my kids the way I do."

Mother of Tadpole & Garden students, Australia

"The instant we walk through the gate we feel this warm and welcoming atmosphere, so different from my previous experiences! I also love that I can be so involved in my children’s first years in school. I won’t have that chance much longer!"

Mother of Frog & Garden students, France

"We couldn’t be more pleased with our experience at Gecko Garden Preschool. Both of our children have been enrolled here.The focus on a play-based curriculum was what initially drew us to Gecko Garden Preschool, however it was the wonderfully happy relationships our children built with their teachers and peers which pleased us the most and which ultimately has made their lives in Phnom Penh so enjoyable."

Father of Frog student, Australia

"We chose Gecko Garden Preschool because many friends recommended it but, even then, I wasn’t prepared for how much it would impress me. The teaching staff are dedicated and caring beyond belief and my son is so happy there. He spends all his time playing and having fun yet he’s also constantly learning – not just his abc’s and his 123’s but life skills too."

Mother of Tadpole student, New Zealand

"Thank you Gecko Garden Preschool for providing my daughter with loving and caring teachers who have many years experience with children. On my daughter’s first day she walked in with her head down but came out with confidence! Most importantly she is able to interact with other kids from different backgrounds and cultures. It’s a wonderful place for preschoolers to experience learning from a young age."

Mother of Frog student, Cambodia

"My kids are really happy to go to school every day. They cry when they are sick and not allowed to go!"

Mother of Frog & Garden students, Cambodia

"PLAY!! The first thing that struck me when we attended Gecko Garden Preschool open day was all the toys! My boys ditched me at the gate, immediately started playing and didn’t stop until I had to lead them away crying. Each area is full of a wide range of age appropriate and diverse toys and the staff constantly engage the children in creative, educational spontaneous and structured play. They are constantly learning without realising it."

Mother of Tadpole & Frog students, Australia

© Gecko Garden School 2019