CO-FOUNDER

I have worked in the childcare sector my whole working life; it’s always been my vocation!

My enjoyment for working alongside children has given me inspiration and dedication to train and study at every opportunity along the road, achieving my much prized NNEB qualification and my specialisms in SENCO, Elklan and Safeguarding.

Ann and I took on the leadership and management on the Pre School in 2008; with several years of working in the setting under our belt. Together, we wanted to harness our passion for childcare and promote the Pre School as an engaged part of the wider community, offering an open door to serve the younger generations of Nutfield and the surroundings. We work hard to embrace our families into daily life through Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Sports day events not to mention our Nativity production; promoting a unified partnership to encourage a child’s development.

“My real passion is being outside. Not only is it something I love to do in my spare time but I see it as critical to a child’s understanding of their world. I love seeing the children run through the muddiest puddles on our ‘Explorer’ sessions or having the freedom to run through the fields around our village; what could be better!!”

CO-FOUNDER

I discovered my passion for childcare after my experience of running the ‘Shoppers Creche’ at Christ Church in a voluntary capacity. It drew on my background in teaching adult education but bundled in a new joy! After further training and qualifications, I started at our Pre School in 2000 and went on to join forces with Helen with a new management structure (in 2008).

Over the years the EYFS directive has constantly evolved, bringing new challenges. Today we stand strong in our aim; we want to prepare each child for school in the best way possible! We watch, gather and develop their interests and harness these to move their learning development forward.

“Each child brings their own unique personality and endearing qualities to the group. It’s such a pleasure to encourage, care and nurture the children, watching the transformation that takes place from their early days at pre-school to when they fledge.“

Level 3 Qualification

I’ve been at South Nutfield Pre School since 2017.

I joined with my youngest daughter when she was 3. After she left to go to school, I began my journey of gaining my Level 3 Childcare qualification. I have a keen interest in promoting wellbeing and mindfulness to our children and take a lead in various physical activity sessions such a ‘Zoo Yoga’!

I think my favourite thing about working with the children are their spontaneous hugs which make my day and make feel so appreciated.

Level 3 Qualification

I’m the newest member of the team! What a fun place the Pre School is!

I am passionate about Children’s literature in particular evocative stories that journey through places or encourage new sounds. I am a big fan of old classics like ‘We're Going on a Bear Hunt’ as well as popular modern favourites like ‘The Gruffalo’.

I am amazed by the memory recall of the children here (clearly aided by their play activities). In my first week I joined a conversation with the children about “Marshall” (I later was told the conversation was about the infamous Paw Patrol crew) but I said “That’s my surname”. It’s something that stuck in their minds, and 7 days later I was addressed as Mapande Marshall”! Clever kids.

I think I have been at South Nutfield Pre School the longest!

I have worked, adhoc, for the Pre School since 2000. I became part of the support team when Helen and Ann joined forces in 2008 and expanded the offering. It’s so rewarding to take such an active involvement in the children’s play; I think ‘scarf dancing’ is always my favourite!

I love coming to work each day and being around the infectious energy of our children. They come out with the funniest things! Once I was asked to fit inside a small tent alongside one of our children. I said “I’m too big“ and they replied “There’s a little space in the middle for you to squeeze your bottom!” (had they been sizing it up ??!!)