Hatherop Castle Nursery

I have a BA Hons in Primary Teaching (First Class) and my main role is to oversee the development of the Nursery. I am passionate about giving children the best possible start to their education by encouraging them to develop a deep love of learning from the offset. I am working with the Nursery staff to develop a curriculum that prioritises learning opportunities that support the development of key learning habits such as curiosity, collaboration and resilience using books as a stimulus. Exciting topics are supported by a rigorous framework to ensure that both prime and specific learning opportunities are mastered.

With 17 years of childcare experience, Mrs Ewan joined Hatherop Castle Nursery in June 2024. Her journey has enhanced her understanding of child development and parent communication. As a mother of two, she brings personal insights and a compassionate approach, ensuring each child's needs are met with care. Mrs Ewan enjoys family time, volunteering at church, and engaging in creative projects, enriching her perspective on community and early childhood development.

Miss Kavanagh has been working with children for 9 years. For the children of our nursery, she aims to gift them with the skills of developing into independent, caring, and respectful individuals, encouraging them to be their most authentic selves, and carrying these morals throughout their lives. Watching children grow is a privilege for her, and it also encourages her to explore the many ways in which they learn, creating an environment that best supports this. Outside of nursery life, she enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time with her friends and family.

I have been working at Hatherop Castle Nursery since January 2015.

I am a creative person and love doing arts and crafts activities at home, so working with small children and helping them to create their very own masterpieces is great. I enjoy going for walks in the countryside and visiting my in-laws and family in France during the school holidays. I am now looking forward to starting my own family, after recently getting married, and hope to put my knowledge of little people to the test!

I joined Hatherop Castle Nursery in June 2024 and am currently working towards my Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification. I hold a degree in Sociology from Exeter University. Inspired by my three young children, I understand the importance of a nurturing, happy and engaging environment. I love supporting each child as they grow in confidence and curiosity, and find real joy in helping them explore the world around them through creativity and play.

Miss O'Connor has worked at Hatherop Castle Nursery since July 2023 and is currently working towards her Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification. One of the highlights of her role is seeing the children grow and develop, and witnessing their progress is a huge reward she experiences every day. Miss O'Connor has two French Bulldogs named Alvin and Rocco. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, as well as building Lego in her spare time.

Mrs. Walthew completed a Level 3 Early Years and Education course in Scotland, which included working two days a week at the local primary school. She has been working with children for approximately seven years in various settings, such as a nursery, primary education, and nannying.
A passionate hockey player, Miss. Walthew regularly plays for a local team. Miss Wlathew has experiences from around the world, travelling for 6 weeks in Southeast Asia and, a couple of years ago, travelled around New Zealand, Fiji, and Australia.

After training as a performer at a London drama school, I began teaching performing arts at Stagecoach Cirencester, where I discovered my passion for working with children. I went on to complete a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies and a PGCE with QTS specialising in music.
I love inspiring creativity and curiosity in the Early Years, helping children take pride in their learning. Hatherop’s ‘Adventure of Childhood’ ethos reflects the joyful, nurturing environment I aim to create. Outside school, I enjoy creative projects and exploring the outdoors with my dog, Duggie.

I have a BA (Hons) in English Literature and a Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning. After having my three children, I began working as a teaching assistant and have always loved supporting young children in their early learning. I really enjoy being part of the warm, nurturing team at Hatherop Castle Nursery. My favourite part of the job is sharing stories with the children—especially books by Julia Donaldson—as I believe a love of reading at an early age inspires lifelong learning. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my two young granddaughters, as well as reading, gardening, and walking my labrador, Minnie.