Jelly Beans Open Air Pre School

Hi, my name is Debbie. I am the Manager at Open Air. I have worked in childcare for over 25 years, and I am absolutely passionate about working with and helping children in the Early Years. Starting off with EYFS, I then trained in Montessori, and it was the best training, and I have a great passion for Montessori and outdoor learning.

Open Air, to me, is a fabulous setting, it has so many learning opportunities, and the environment is beautiful.

Away from work, I have three grown-up children, three grandchildren, and I enjoy spending quality time with them all, as well as beach walks with my Cocker Spaniel. Holidaying and short trips away is also me.

After giving birth to my eldest daughter, Poppy, I decided to leave my career in the music business and prepare for parenthood by becoming a Montessori Teacher. Over 20 years ago and two more daughters later, Jemima and Sophie, I have never looked back! The sheer joy of being able to nurture a child’s natural inquisitiveness and expand his/her horizons is so rewarding. In my spare time I enjoy relaxing with my family, going to the theatre, music, walking the family dog and looking after our two horses.

I set up Jelly Beans in 2004 and today I am delighted that we have grown the Jelly Beans family into a busy and popular Nursery

Hi, my name is Sophie. I am the Accounts Manager for Jelly Beans Montessori, where I manage spaces, availability, and enquiries, ensuring everything runs smoothly for our families.

I have a background in wildlife conservation, which has given me a real appreciation for the natural world, and I am currently studying towards my Forest School Level 3. I enjoy bringing this knowledge into my role and supporting a connection with nature wherever possible. My mum, Sarah, instilled in me a love for the Montessori Method and a deep respect for the child and their process. Joining Forest School Principles with the Montessori Ethos is a truly rewarding experience.

Away from work, I enjoy horse riding, spending time with my dogs, and making the most of time with friends.

With over 31 years of experience in childcare, I have dedicated much of my career to leadership and management roles. In 2015, I achieved a BA (Hons) in Childcare and Management and was awarded Early Years Teacher Status, further strengthening my commitment to high-quality early years education. I joined Jelly Beans in December 2022 as Deputy Manager at the Day Nursery. After 15 months, I was ready for a new challenge and moved to the Open Air setting as SEN Support. I am now proud to be the Deputy Manager there, continuing to support both children and staff in a nurturing and inclusive environment. I strongly align with Montessori principles and actively incorporate these into my practice.I am passionate about supporting children’s development and find it incredibly rewarding to watch them grow and thrive during their early years.
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling in my campervan, going on holidays, and spending time watching live music.

Both my children have attended Jelly Beans and we instantly found a love for the Montessori approach. I could see how they excelled on a daily basis. I come from a Special Educational Needs school of 12 years starting here after qualifying with my Level 3 in childcare. I then decided to do my higher learning teaching assistant (HLTA) and studied for my Bachelor of Arts Open Degree studying courses all around childcare. I also have makaton sign language training which I have started using at Jelly Beans to teach to the children how to do some sign language. Working with and supporting children with SEN is my passion, I love to watch them develop and progress, tailoring the curriculum to suit them! I love spending time with my family and going on lots of different adventures . Family days are my favourite. I have worked with children from the age of 16 and strive to improve my learning along the way with lots of different opportunities.

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