Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester

1 & 2 Oyster Court, St Helens Lane, Colchester CO1 1TY
Review Us
9.6 85 Reviews
  • Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester, Colchester
Banana Moon day nursery offers care for children aged from three months to five years in a purpose-built setting which ensures the needs of children can be fully met.
Staff always take the needs and views of its parents very seriously to ensure the best learning and playing environment is created for children to grow and develop in.
A safe and secure playground complements the indoor facilities of Banana Moon day nursery, and an in-house kitchen is used to create nutritious and healthy daily meals.
Security is of paramount concern at Banana Moon. With this in mind, they operate a ‘fingerprint’ biometric access system to protect children and nursery staff. This system allows nursery personnel to register parents' fingerprints in seconds.
Banana Moon operates CCTV throughout the nursery. This added security is there for the protection and peace of mind of children, staff and parents. The presence of the external cameras also acts as a powerful deterrent to any unwelcome visitors.
They have a dedicated sleep room with soft lighting and natural wood cots. This calm and quiet room provides a restful environment for babies, allowing them to enjoy a comfortable nap without being disturbed by any external noise. Each child has their own bed linen, which is regularly laundered in-house.
The nursery is equipped with a number of interactive screens, which provide an interactive learning experience for children of all ages. Adding this technology to the nursery environment encourages the little ones to explore the world of ICT in bite-sized chunks.
To help share your child’s development and to make communicating with parents informative and easy, the Parent App is available to download from the App Store or Google Play. This helps staff to share ‘golden’ moments like children painting or exploring their environment and learning through play.
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Type of Service

  • Day Nursery
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Sophie O'Hanlon (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 19

Total Places for Children

  • 100

Age Range

  • from 0 years 3 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • Free funded places available (limited availability). Please get in touch for fees

Opening Times

  • Monday 07:00-19:00
    Tuesday 07:00-19:00
    Wednesday 07:00-19:00
    Thursday 07:00-19:00
    Friday 07:00-19:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays

Parking

  • Ample Parking available on site

Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester Reviews (85)

9.6

Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester has a Review Score of 9.6 (9.592) out of 10, based on 13 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester has 85 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
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Reviewer Connection to Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
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Total of 85, showing 21-40
Review from L V (Mother of Child) published on 6 February 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 3.0 out of 5
Mixed views. Children are so happy and thriving. Staff in the rooms work tirelessly and do it with a smile. But there is something niggling away about staff morale and atmosphere that isn't right. A whole management team plus seniors left in the span of 6 months. That is alarm bells and a clear message
that there's a general disgruntled feeling about the place. I've highlighted this and got excuses i.e cost of living, career change etc. Where there is a mass exodus in any workplace...people are unhappy. Dress it up. I'm not daft. Another outstanding leader leaves which confirms my gut instincts. The foyer is cluttered and at times a safety hazard, dirty fish tank (poor fish), and it's overall shabby. They do some great things but there's an unpleasant feeling in the air. I am cautious. Frustrating and a shame as the care of my children is top-notch - such wonderful practitioners.
Reply from Natasha Ritchie-Loan, Senior Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your review. We have recently addressed the issues you raised, but we would be happy to have a face-to-face meeting if you feel this is something you wish to do as a family. Thank you…read more
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Review from Claire T (Mother of Child) published on 1 February 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has been going to Banana Moon Nursery Colchester for just over 1 year and he absolutely loves it there. All his key workers have been lovely, in fact, all of the staff are very helpful and friendly. He's thriving at nursery and has learnt so much! Love seeing the updates on what he's been up
to on the app! Highly recommend this nursery.
Reply from Natasha, Senior Parents at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for taking the time to write this review. It's so lovely to hear that both you and your son, have a great experience whilst being at the setting. The app is something that is well-liked, and…read more
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Review from Anna G (Mother of Child) published on 15 December 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I couldn't recommend Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester enough. Both my boys attend and they both absolutely love going. Staff are lovely and really go above and beyond. Also always kept up to date with news and information needed.
Reply from Natasha Ritchie-Loan, Senior Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for taking the time to write this review. We are so happy to hear that both your boys are so happy and the staff go above and beyond to support you all as a family. Thank you again.
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Review from L L (Mother of Child) published on 14 December 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Banana Moon Colchester is brilliant. My son is so happy there and has amazing relationships with all the staff. They genuinely care about the children and go above and beyond to help both children and parents. My son is thriving and has come on so much with his speech and skills since starting nursery
in 2021, as well as becoming more adventurous with food and trying new things. I could not recommend them enough!
Reply from Natasha Ritchie-Loan, Senior Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for taking the time to write this review. We are so happy to hear that our staff are supporting all of our families and their children. To hear that our nutritious menu is helping your child…read more
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Review from Ben M (Father of Child) published on 14 December 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Great staff, very caring. Our child enjoys going and is very happy.
They seem to get up to a lot of activities and play, and the child has made some friends. It's right around the corner from our home, so that's good too.
Reply from Natasha Ritchie-Loan, Senior Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for taking the time to write this review. We are so happy to hear that staff are supporting your child, and you can see their development through our unique app. Thank you again.
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Review from Christopher C (Father of Child) published on 27 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little girl loves it there. I have never had an issue with her wanting to go and she doesn't stop talking about it when she leaves. She is always well fed, well looked after and has come on leaps and bounds with her interaction with other people in the last few months. Apparently, her teacher is
her 'best friend'.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thanks Christopher, that's so nice to hear. Thank you for taking the time to write this review.
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Review from Sophie H (Mother of Child) published on 26 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
At the beginning of introducing my daughter to nursery I was very skeptical, however within minutes of walking into Banana Moon, all of my doubts disappeared. The staff here are so friendly, very honest and so professional! I knew this was the perfect place for my child to develop. The staff at Banana
Moon go above and beyond for the children and the blossom app that gives me frequent updates really puts my mind at ease. I can’t recommend this nursery enough.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you so much for your lovely review, Sophie. I am so pleased that our staff have gone over and beyond what you expected. I am glad that you like our Parent App too.
I'll be sure to pass your…read more
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Review from Thea H (Mother of Child) published on 26 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has been extremely happy at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester, starting aged 10 months old in September 2020 (his older brother attended from June 2018 to August 2020). The staff are wonderfully caring and attentive. Banana Moon's app keeps me up to date with my son's activities throughout the
day and I have been hugely impressed by their dedication to helping my son learn to walk and their attention to his interests. The nursery's approach to the Covid-19 situation has been exemplary; they have stayed open as much as possible maintaining safety standards to an impressive degree.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thanks, Thea, it's great to have families return to us for the care of the second, third, and sometimes the fourth child. It shows the high consistency of care we have for each individual child that…read more
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Review from Amy N (Mother of Child) published on 26 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son seems to have no issues, they always call if there are any issues regarding behaviour or medical needs. They took note of his medical needs and were more on top of their medical policies than another nursery my son has attended.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thanks, Amy, we take any kind of medical issues very seriously. I am glad to hear that our team has enforced our strict policies surrounding this.
Thank you for taking the time to write this review.
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Review from Courtney M (Mother of Child) published on 26 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter goes here once a week and she absolutely loves it, coming here has made my daughter so much more confident and having interaction with other children (due to Covid-19 lockdown she hasn’t been able to do that). My daughter has also made a special relationship with her key person and other
adults in her room.
The nursery is absolutely amazing and staff are fantastic.
Would highly recommend them to anyone.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Hi Courtney, it's great to hear what a positive impact joining Banana Moon has had on your daughter particularly, during this past year.
Thank you for taking the time to write this review.
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Review from Daniel T (Father of Child) published on 26 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff are very friendly, welcoming and really emphasise making and developing relationships with the children in their care. Our two daughters really enjoy their days at Banana Moon and the communication with us as parents via the app is great.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Hi Daniel, thank you for taking the time to write this review. It's great to hear that you like our bespoke Parent App and that you and your family feel so welcomed by our caring staff team and your…read more
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Review from Lisa T (Mother of Child) published on 26 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Lovely nursery, very caring and friendly staff. Staff seem very interested and invested in the children. Our daughters both settled very well and quickly, which I think is down to the staff being so welcoming and caring with the girls. They do lots of fun activities and the app is great. I'm also very
impressed with the effort that is being put into the vegan food for both girls. 100% recommend this nursery!
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Hi Lisa, thank you for your lovely comments. I will pass your kind words onto our staff team. I am glad that you really like our bespoke parent app.
Our in-house Chef is excellent and we always try…read more
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Review from Jen K (Mother of Child) published on 26 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been going to Banana Moon in Colchester since she was 7 months old, after my return to work, all the team there have been amazing since the beginning and continue to be, my daughter is now 2 and has moved into the toddler room. They handled her transition beautifully even when she wasn’t
sure or was upset and didn’t want to go in. They helped both of us deal with it, and now she runs in with a quick wave and a bye mummy before she’s gone looking for her friends. Such a friendly place and all the team are so helpful.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Hi Jen, thank you for taking the time to review us. It's great to hear that our staff have been consistently "amazing" since you decided to join our Banana Moon family 17/18 months ago now.
I'll be…read more
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Review from Lisa P (Grandmother of Child) published on 26 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Staff always helpful and polite. Always put the child first. My granddaughter loves coming to nursery and always has a great time while there. She leaves soon as starts big school this year, however, has told me many times she wants to stay at Banana Moon forever. Would definitely recommend to anyone
looking for a loving nursery. Thank you to all the wonderful staff.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you Lisa for taking the time to write this review.
I am glad to hear that you and your granddaughter love coming to Banana Moon and that our staff are so helpful and polite. I will be sure to…read more
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Review from Stephanie B (Mother of Child) published on 25 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I highly recommend Banana Moon Nursery. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The manager is kind and helpful and in particular with concerns I had in regards to placing my toddler there temporarily whilst in a women's refuge with my children. Her kindness was very much needed during a time that
has been particularly hard for myself and my children. My daughter enjoys being there although she is teary when saying goodbye to me. She speaks fondly of nursery and the staff in the toddler room when home and that's what matters.
Their app is also excellent and I am kept up to date with my toddler's activities throughout her time there. It's nice to be able to read about her golden moments every week and be kept up to date with her progress. The food they provide is healthy and I can see that my toddler gets offered well-balanced meals.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for taking the time to write this review.
We are very proud of our staff and Management team at Banana Moon I am glad our Manager was so understanding and helpful in which must have been a…read more
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Review from Crystal-Nicole (Mother of Child) published on 3 March 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff at Banana moon are so caring, helpful and forever putting the children’s interests and education first. Never-ending activities on a daily to teach the children new things.
Covid measures are above and beyond! Keeping staff and children safe!
Reply from Nicola Donnelly, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your great feedback, Crystal. We are very glad your daughter enjoys the wide range of activities we offer here at Banana Moon and able to share updates with you throughout the day on our…read more
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Review from Lucy (Mother of Child) published on 3 March 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son started coming to Banana Moon last year and he is so happy... he usually runs in without saying goodbye to me. I have found that every member of staff I have dealt with have been extremely friendly and helpful. Also extremely professional with regards to the Covid 19 situation we are in. Which
has left me feeling very confident that my son is safe once in their care. He is quite shy but has become more confident and can communicate so much more now, which I believe is because of the attention he is given by the staff at Banana moon.
Reply from Nicola Donnelly, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your great feedback, Lucy. It is lovely to see how much your son enjoys attending Banana Moon, and watching him grow into a confident little boy! I will be sure to pass on your lovely…read more
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Review from Emmanuel O (Father of Child) published on 3 March 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Very very good nursery, they have the wellbeing of the kids at heart, my boy is always happy to go to the nursery and the everyday diary updates on the App are just too beautiful. My son can count 1 to 10, he is always practising his numbers when using the stairs either upwards or downwards, he knows
so many nursery rhymes and new songs.
Reply from Nicola Donnelly, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your feedback! We are so glad that you are happy with our nursery and it is lovely to see how well your son has settled in here at Banana Moon. I will make sure to share your comments…read more
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Review from Mollie G (Mother of Child) published on 3 March 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending the nursery since January 2021 and is under 2.
I haven’t been able to see the inside of the nursery due to Covid and have only spoken to staff at the door which caused me to be very nervous about my daughter attending in the beginning. However, I am so glad we enrolled
her at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester, it has been the best thing for my little girl.
Both myself and my husband cannot believe how far she has come in such a short time since starting. Not only has her speech improved but her behaviour has completely changed for the better. I feel like since starting at Banana Moon my little girl is more interactive and is learning to be more independent/confident in herself.
Every single staff member is polite and I feel at ease when she is at nursery and I’m confident my daughter is well looked after. The app is amazing and the nursery keeps me updated of all of my daughter's activities throughout the day.
I couldn’t recommend Banana Moon enough.
Reply from Nicola Donnelly, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your lovely comments, Mollie, I will definitely pass these on to the staff in the Teenie's room. It has been lovely to see her settling in so well and, showing her character! We are very…read more
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Review from Guy B (Father of Child) published on 3 March 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Our son has settled very well and looks forward to going to nursery. The staff are very friendly and communication about all aspects of our son’s day and the day to day management of the nursery is very good. We are very happy with Banana Moon.
Reply from Gary Chamberlain, Director at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your review, Guy. I am glad that your son looks forward to coming to Banana Moon and that the staff and Management team keep you up to date.
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Current Review Score: 9.6 (9.592)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.6 (9.592) out of 10 for Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.9 out of 5 from 13 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.7 out of 5 from 13 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Day Nursery is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 4.942 for Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester is calculated as follows: ( (146 Excellents x 5) + (9 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 155 Ratings = 4.942
  2. 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5'). The 4.65 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester is based on 13 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    1. 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4
    2. 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the number of registered child places in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Day Nursery registered for a maximum of 50 child places has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 100 number of registered child places is 20. 13 Positive Reviews ÷ 20 = 0.65
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. If a Day Nursery does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Child Vacancies

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Awards / Recognitions (7)

Meet the Team (16)

Natasha

Natasha Ritchie-Loan

Job Title: Senior Nursery Manager Joined: 2012

I have worked at Banana Moon since 2012, when the Billericay Nursery first opened. I hold a Diploma in Nursery Nursing, which I was awarded in 1999.


I am a proud mummy of two boys — they are my world! Both of my sons have attended Banana Moon, and my youngest still does.


Working with children is my true passion. I love nothing more than seeing them flourish, learn, develop, and grow over the years at Banana Moon. The children and families are at the heart of our nursery — we are not just a nursery, we are a part of your children’s extended family.


My role is to encourage children to follow their interests while supporting the staff to provide stimulating and engaging experiences that promote growth, curiosity, and joy every day.

Sophie

Sophie O'Hanlon

Job Title: Manager Joined: 2021

Hi, I am Sophie, and I have a level 3 qualification in childcare. I started with Banana Moon 3 years ago as an Early Years Educator and have progressed to the position of Manager. I'm enjoying getting involved with all of the children and their families and working with the team to make sure everyone enjoys their time in the nursery.


During my spare time, I love spending time with my family.

Kiera

Kiera Savory

Job Title: Room Leader/Deputy Manager Joined: 2023

I have worked in Early Years since I was 17 years old, during this time I have studied to become a Level 3 Early Years Educator.


For me helping children grow and reach their goals so they are ready to go off to school is one of the most rewarding feelings.


I am very excited to have joined Banana Moon as the Room Leader for Full Moons.

Billie

Billie Russell

Job Title: Third In Charge / SENCo Joined: 2023

I have worked in childcare for many years, starting my career as an unqualified practitioner and working my way up to become a Level 3 Early Years Educator.


I have been with Banana Moon for several months and currently serve as Third in Charge and SENCo. Supporting children with additional needs is something I am truly passionate about, and I love helping every child feel confident, happy, and included.


Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my younger siblings and relaxing with friends. I also love bringing creativity and fun into my work, whether it’s through play, activities, or learning experiences that make each day exciting for the children.

Robert

Robert Taylor

Job Title: Chef Joined: 2023

I was raised in a family where cooking was a big part of daily life, and their passion inspired me to study catering at college.


I love seeing children try new foods and discover that healthy meals can be delicious. In this way, I feel I’m helping them get the best possible start in life.


Outside of work, I enjoy playing football and spending quality time with my family.

Lilla

Lilla Jangaon - Markaly

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2024

Hello, I am Lilla. I am originally from Hungary but now live in Colchester with my little family.

Sophie

Sophie Oldroyd

Job Title: Apprentice Joined: 2024

Hi, I am Sophie. I am a Level 2 nursery practitioner and currently doing my Level 3 apprenticeship. I am based in Full Moons.

Suzanne

Suzanne De Boer

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2024

Hello, I am Suzanne. I originally lived in The Netherlands and then moved to Australia.
I now live in Colchester with my little family.

Nicola

Nicola Pearson

Job Title: Holiday Club Manager Joined: 2024

I have worked in childcare for over 7 years and am passionate about supporting children’s growth and development. I am a Moon Crew Manager, where I enjoy creating a nurturing and fun environment for the little ones.


Outside of work, I love travelling and spending quality time with my family. I am really enjoying making a positive impact here at Banana Moon and seeing the children thrive each day.

Megan

Megan Stevenson

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2022

My name is Megan and I am a level two early years practitioner in the baby and teenie room. I have 3 years of experience within a nursery setting and I am first aid trained. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family.

Tyheisha

Tyheisha Simpson

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2024

Hi. I am Tyheisha. I enjoy spending time with my family and my daughter. I used to work and live in London but have recently moved to Colchester with my husband.

Andrea

Andrea Salamanova

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2022

Hi, I’m Andrea. I’m originally from Slovakia, and I now live in Colchester with my husband and our two boys.


At Banana Moon, I am based in the Baby and Teenie Moons room, where I love supporting and caring for the youngest children as they grow and develop. I really enjoy creating a calm and nurturing environment, and it’s such a joy to see the babies and toddlers reach new milestones each day.


Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, cooking, and getting outdoors with my boys. Being a mum myself has given me a real understanding of how important it is for children to feel safe, happy, and cared for — something I always aim to bring into my work.

Melissa

Melissa Knight

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2022

My name is Melissa and I am a Nursery Practitioner in the Full moon room at Banana Moon, in Colchester.


I am a qualified teacher and have over three years of experience working in nursery settings.


I also have a performing arts degree and have been carrying out dance and drama activities within the setting. I also have level 3 in phonics.


In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my three-year-old son.

Katherine

Katherine Cooper

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2018

Hello. I am Katherine. I live in Colchester with my little boy and husband. I have worked at Banana Moon for almost 7 years now!

Vanessa

Vanessa Curto

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2021

I joined Banana Moon after moving to Colchester from Palmero in Italy. I have several years of experience working as a Nursery Practitioner. While living in Italy I studied childcare to a degree level.
I am currently working in Full Moons and Mini Moons

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Esther Sweetman

Job Title: Playworker Joined: 2025

Hi, I am Esther.

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