Our cosy, homely preschool at Plumberow Primary Academy
Jelly Beans Pre School is our smallest, cosiest, quietest setting — and for many families, that's exactly what they're looking for. Located within Plumberow Primary Academy on Hamilton Gardens, it offers an intimate, homely environment where every child is truly known.
Children enjoy free flow between the indoor classroom and the garden, where there's a wendy house, bikes and space to move. The Montessori environment is rich in invitation and choice — children decide what they explore and how long they stay.
Our connection to Plumberow Primary Academy is a real strength. Children in our preschool naturally become familiar with the school building, staff and routines — making the transition to Reception one of the smoothest in Hockley.
We also run Boogie Mites music sessions, Adventure Play and a sports day — making it a full and joyful term-time experience.
A warm, nurturing start to school life.
Children move freely between the indoor Montessori classroom and the outdoor garden, following their own interests and energy throughout the day.
A welcoming garden with a wendy house and bikes gives children space to run, imagine and create — complementing the indoor Montessori environment perfectly.
Our location within Plumberow Primary means children arrive at Reception already familiar and confident — a truly seamless transition.
Being our smallest setting means every child is genuinely known — by every member of staff, every day. Nobody gets lost here.
The small, dedicated team that makes our cosiest setting so special.
Manager at Jelly Beans at Plumberow
Hello I’m Miss Gina, and I am the Manager of Jelly Beans Pre-School in Plumberow, I bring over 15 years of experience in childcare. I have been part of the Jelly Beans Montessori team for the past four years, where I have worked across all age groups—from supporting younger babies in the day nursery to guiding children through their pre-school journey.
I am passionate about supporting children’s development and take great pride in watching their confidence grow and flourish. I am a strong advocate of the Montessori approach, valuing its focus on independence, purposeful learning, and developing practical life skills through play.
Outside of work, my hobbies include spending time outdoors on long walks with my husband and dog, as well as reading and swimming.
Founder and Director
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
Accounts and Forest School Lead
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.
Deputy Manager
Hi, I’m Miss Stacey. I joined Jelly Beans in October 2021 as an SEN Assistant. Having previously worked with children in Children’s A&E and in a children’s home, moving into Early Years Education was a new and rewarding direction for me.
Since then, I’ve progressed to the role of Deputy Manager, which I currently hold at the Plumberow setting. I find great joy in watching the children grow and reach their developmental milestones, especially through Montessori activities such as Practical Life.
Outside of work, I enjoy gardening and spending quality time with my family—my husband, our three children, and our little Frenchie dog.
Lead SENCO
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.
Montessori Ambassador
bio
Plumberow Primary Academy
Hamilton Gardens, Hockley
SS5 5BX
Term time only
Mon–Fri during school terms