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, and colloquially known as the ‘purple ladies’.
Below, you can find out a bit more about our manager and deputy manager, as well as our business manager and our committee.
Kerrie: Early Years Manager
Hello, I’m Kerrie! I have lived in Chester for the past 10 years, having moved here from Horsham with my husband. We have two wonderful children, a nine-year-old son and a five-year-old daughter.
I have worked in childcare for over 20 years and have always been passionate about creating a safe, nurturing and loving “home-from-home” environment where children feel happy, secure and valued. I believe that children learn best when they feel confident, supported and able to have fun while exploring the world around them.
My son has additional needs, and supporting him has given me a deeper understanding of inclusion, patience and the importance of adapting learning and care to meet each child’s individual needs. This personal experience has strengthened my professional practice and reinforced my commitment to ensuring that every child feels included, understood and supported to reach their full potential.
One of the aspects of early years education I enjoy most is spending time outdoors with children. I love creating exciting, hands-on experiences that encourage curiosity, exploration and confidence, while supporting children’s learning and development through play. Whether we are discovering nature, getting creative or simply enjoying time together, I believe there are endless opportunities for children to learn through everyday experiences.
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, Imogen Griffiths