At Dodleston Pre-School, we have a dedicated team whose passions are education and teaching young children. Although a small team, we certainly are a mighty one!
Below, you can find out a bit more about our manager and deputy manager, as well as our business manager and our committee.
Laura: Early Years Manager

Hello! My name is Laura, and I live in Hawarden with my husband, our three-year-old son, and our fluffy dog, Rory. I’m thrilled to be stepping into the role of Early Years Manager at Dodleston Pre-School.
I’m really looking forward to getting to know all the lovely families in the village and becoming part of the Dodleston community. I bring with me over 15 years of experience in Early Years education—though I’m not quite sure how that’s happened, as I still feel 25 (despite what the wrinkles say!).
I am a passionate advocate for in-the-moment planning and outdoor learning—who doesn’t love making mud cupcakes and tea on a Monday morning? I can’t wait to share these experiences and create new, joyful moments for the children to immerse themselves in.
In my spare time, I love exploring with my family—whether it’s walking, caravanning, or camping—and I cherish spending time with friends and loved ones.
Natalie: Deputy Manager

Hello everyone, my name is Natalie and I have worked in the Early Years sector for 15 years and have been with Dodleston Pre-School since April 2019. I have Level 3 Childcare Learning and Development and a Level 3 in play work. This year, I am hoping to study my Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner. Early Years is something I am passionate about. Being there to support children, making them feel safe and ensuring they have a fabulous and fun time when they are at the setting is what makes me happy.
Most of all, I love being there for the children when they need support, and being able to see them achieve what they want, celebrating with them. There is nothing better than seeing the children run into the setting with big smiles on their faces. I love being outdoors and that is how I spend most of my time with my family, my two children, my partner and my dog. I really look forward to seeing you all soon.
Our Purple Ladies

Elaine

Amy

Gemma
Jude: Business Manager

Hi, I’m Jude – although most of us have never met, I’m the one who sends all those annoying emails asking for forms and/or money! My role at Dodleston Pre-School is to ensure the office runs smoothly so the wonderful ladies can concentrate on looking after your children.
My role is admin based but I actually started out (many years ago) as a childcare practitioner (L3 Childcare & Education and D32/33 Assessor), then pre-school manager, before having children of my own and doing my part on their pre-school committee. So over the years I have worn all hats!
As much as I may seem to be always emailing to ask about sessions and forms or fees and funding, it is a necessary part of the bigger picture to help make Dodleston Pre-School a unique, fun, stimulating environment, where the children can thrive and reach their individual potential.
Pre-School Committee
Our Pre-School relies on volunteers to form our committee. The current committee members are:
- Co-Chair – Emma Hutt
- Treasurer – Sarah Macklin
- Secretary – Melanie Hughes
- Committee members – Anne Tunnicliffe, Jenny Bowle, Chris Ward

