Pre-School
Manger

Nicola Dade
Level 3 - Manager

“I have 3 children, one who has just gone off to university and 2 at secondary school, who all attended the preschool when they were little. I have a dog called Oakley and love going out for walks. In my free time I like to go shopping or to the beach with my family”

Nicola is the Pre-School Manager and has been with us since 2015. She is one of our SENCO’s (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator). Nicola is passionate about the Pre-School, always striving to enhance our provision with new ideas and initiatives.  Nicola leads the team with professionalism and knowledge, she believes the team members combined individual strengths create a wonderful learning and nurturing experience for the children.

Meet The Staff

Get to know the team behind your child's early learning!
Remziye Ozpembe

Level 2 – Deputy Manager


Rem is the Pre-School Deputy Manager and joined the team in 2018. She is the Safeguarding Lead and the ENCO (Equality Named Co-ordinator). Rem is very passionate about the Pre-School and ensures we are inclusive for all, putting together plans to ensure every child is given the best opportunity to learn. Rem is loved by the children and has a lovely bond with her key children.

Rem says - “I am a parent of two children. One is in secondary school and the other is in junior school, and they both attended Doddinghurst Community Preschool. I really enjoy working with children and supporting them in reaching their full potential. In my spare time I enjoy running and reading”

Angela Taylor

Level 3 & Administration Assistant


Angela joined the team as Practitioner in 2024. She is the Safeguarding Deputy and Behaviour Lead. Angela has also taken over the role of Admin Assistant so is instrumental in keeping the Pre-School ticking along, she has a financial and administration background as well as experience and qualifications in working with children. Angela manages the office and is the person to contact about funding, payments, uniform and anything Nursery in a Box related. If you have any questions she is always happy to help.

Angela says – "I am a mum of 3 girls, my eldest 2 work and my youngest is in college, the girls are my world. I also have a dog called Cora who is a bit hyper, but so loveable. I like shopping, walking, reading and weekends by the sea. I really love my job and watching children thrive."

Anna Wilson

Level 2


Anna began her working at the Preschool in 2024 and enjoys all parts of Pre-School, the children naturally gravitate to Anna and she is often seen with a circle of children around her. Anna loves craft and enjoys getting messy with the children.

Anna says - "I am a mum to 3 lovely children. My eldest goes to university and the younger 2 are still at secondary school. I love cats and have 2 at home. I enjoy music, pyjama days, tea and crisps!”

Claire Barton

Level 3


Claire has been with us since 2018 and brings a calm, gentle approach to the setting. Claire is often seen with her own resources, entertaining the children and supporting their learning in a fun, interactive way.

Claire says – “I’m a mum to 3 children and I started working here just after my youngest left. I enjoy travelling and have been lucky enough to have lived abroad in the USA and Switzerland. I also love spending time with family, reading and hiking, especially in the Lake District.”

Karen Allen

Level 3


Karen joined the team in 2024 and is Pre-Schools very own ‘Mary Poppins’, her endless bag of supplies and resources show her dedication to the role. She is well loved and supports children to settle quickly. Karen enjoys all parts of Pre-School activities but particularly loves the playdough and the many skills this promotes.

Karen says – “I have 3 grown up children and 6 grandchildren who I love to spend time with. I have a German Shepherd dog called Luna, we enjoy being outside”

Louise Garwood

Trainee Level 2


Louise started working at Pre-School in 2024 and is now training to be a Level 2, she has a wonderful natural ability with the children. She has recently taken part in a Language Focus Play initiative and helps a small group of children with their communication and interactions. Louise enjoys snack time with the children - she likes talking about different foods, promoting social skills and supporting fine motor skills when the children butter their own bread.

Louise says – “I have 2 children. 1 boy and 1 girl. My favourite things are music, dancing, going to the theatre and planning our next trips away.”

Patrycja Sehmby

Level 2 – Trainee Level 3


Patrycja joined the team in 2023 and is one of the settings SENCO’s, she is also the Health and Safety Officer. Being a parent of a small, child Patrycja has a great awareness of how new parents feel and can help settle their nerves. She has a calm nature and great understanding of special educational needs and is able to support children with respect and tolerance. Patrycja has begun her Level 3 training which will enhance her already vast knowledge and skills.

Patrycja says - “I’m a mum of 3 girls, a teenager and 2 younger. I grew up in Poland and moved to the UK in my early 20’s. I have a dog, Zami who loves Sunday walks in the forest. I love music, dancing, reading and yoga”

Sibel Varis

Level 2


Sibel joined the team in 2023 and is a much loved member of the team. Her calm, gentle nature shines through in everything she does and is very popular with the children, especially her key children who adore her.

Sibel says – "I am mother to 2 lovely boys. We are lucky to have a big family around us. I am Turkish and love visiting friends and family when I can. Our cat Kenzo is the baby of the house and loves cuddles."

Katie Rawlings

Unqualified


Katie joined the team in 2023 and after the birth of her daughter, has returned to us. Katie is very keen and willing to learn and participates in all aspects of our day at preschool. She is building good relationships with the children and settling back in well.

Katie says – ‘I am a mum of 3 children, 2 boys and a girl. In my spare time I enjoy baking, seeing friends and visits to the park with my children. I’m looking forward to getting to know all the children and becoming an outstanding practitioner’

Jane Elmes

Bank Staff - Level 3


Jane joined the Preschool as Bank Staff in 2023 and has many years experience in childcare, she currently works when needed but kindly volunteers weekly, which shows her commitment to us. She is a keen gardener and baker and keeps the staff happy with her cakes!

Jane says – “I have 3 grown up children. I enjoy travelling and go to Australia to see my son, and Portugal as often as I can. I have a whippet called Ruby and a horse called Duncan”

What parents say

More than just a joyful place

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact us below