Step Start Braintree

I have around 10 years of experience in childcare and started out doing lunch cover while completing my university degree. I’m now a qualified Level 5 practitioner and have proudly worked my way up at Step Start. When I first joined, my little boy Harvey was just six months old - we’ve grown through the nursery together, and now he’s off to school, happy and thriving, just as I’ve stepped into my manager role. I absolutely love working with babies and witnessing all those precious firsts alongside families. I’m very much a “get stuck in” kind of teacher - I laugh, play, and get messy right along with the children!

I have worked in Early Years since 2021, starting as an apprentice while gaining my Level 3 diploma in childcare and continuing as a qualified practitioner. I love the friendly atmosphere within the setting and the positive, can-do attitude of the team. Knowing that staff are valued just as much as the children is a real boost, helping to keep morale high and ensuring we provide the best start for young minds. I am particularly passionate about bringing nature into children’s play, whether that’s spending time outdoors or incorporating natural elements like herbs and plants into messy play activities.

I’m Level 3 qualified in childcare and have always been fascinated by how little minds work and develop. Growing up with lots of siblings and being around children from a young age, I knew this was the path for me. I love being part of a team that supports my growth and helps me shape children’s learning in creative ways. Messy play is one of my favourites - I enjoy finding fun, hands-on ways to explore learning with the children.

I’ve been working in childcare since I was sixteen and hold a CACHE Level 3 in Childcare and Education. Over the years, I’ve worked across a range of settings with children from babies up to Year 7, and I’ve now been part of the Step Start Braintree team for over four years. What I love most is how the team feels like a true community - everyone works together to give children the very best care and education. I’m passionate about helping little ones grow in confidence and supporting them to try new things.

Big Steps Room Leader

I have worked in childcare since I was 16, inspired by my mum who was also in childcare and a nursery manager, where I completed my first apprenticeship. From there, I gained my Level 3 and continued to build my knowledge and experience, and I now hold both a Level 3 and Level 5 in Early Years. I love working with the children and being part of such wonderful families, and I especially enjoy working in the Future Leaps room, supporting the school readiness programme and seeing the children grow in confidence as they prepare for school. I am passionate about consistency, as I believe routines and clear expectations really help children thrive, and I take pride in supporting them to reach their next steps and achieve their goals.