The nursery team:

Hilary

Nursery Manager, dsl, trustee & Forest School Practitioner – (BA (Hons) EYP)

I have been working in Early Years Education since 2000. I used to help out as a mum at my own children’s nursery and really enjoyed it. So when an opening became available, I jumped at the opportunity. Initially qualifying with my Level 3 in 2004, I went on to study for an Early Years Degree, which I achieved in July 2008. I also have Early Years Professional Status (2010) and continue to update my knowledge now having additional qualifications in both Creativity and Speech and Language Support, I am also a level 3 Forest School practitioner. I became the Manager of St Michael’s in September 2008, and still consider myself lucky to be working in such a fantastic environment with a supportive team of colleagues and parents. I’m a farmer’s daughter so have a natural love of the outdoors and I’m delighted we have our own nursery chickens! I have two dogs called Lizzie and Pip, who are my babies now that my own children are both grown, and I quite enjoy a bit of boxercise!

Melissa

Deputy Manager, deputy DSL BA (Hons)

I’m Melissa, and I’m so excited to be joining the team as Deputy Manager.

Early years has always been a real passion of mine, and I love creating caring, engaging environments where children feel happy, confident and encouraged to reach their full potential.

I have a degree in Early Years Education and over 15 years+ experience working in nurseries. I’ve previously managed two nurseries locally, both of which achieved Outstanding OFSTED ratings during my leadership — an achievement I’m incredibly proud of.

As a mum to two young children myself, I understand the importance of finding a nursery where families feel supported and children feel safe, settled and excited to come each day.

I’m really looking forward to becoming part of the nursery community, getting to know all of the children and families, and being part of their early years journey.

Aimee

SENCO (npq (sen), pgce, ba (hons))

I joined St Michael’s in April 2025. I am a teacher and SENCO, and I have worked in early years, primary and specialist secondary settings. I have also worked as a practitioner for children’s early help mental health services. I love working in early years and am grateful to have the chance to take on the role of SENCO here part time. I also offer equine facilitated learning sessions with my ponies just outside Dorking. Spending time with the ponies and in nature is important to me, and I love sharing that with other people too! I have two children, a dog, and a bearded dragon as well!

Justyn

Student practitioner

kelly

nursery practitioner

I have been working in Primary Education since 2005 in various different settings. My favourite role is working within the Early Years and I feel lucky to have joined the fantastic team here at St Michael’s.
I have 4 sons and a young grandson who keep me busy and I enjoy reading, shopping, socialising with friends & family and walking my dog Summer.

Lizzie

Nursery Practitioner (Level 3) & Forest School Practitioner

I began volunteering as a committee member when my daughter Chloe started at St Michael’s in 2017, and I loved being part of the workings behind the scene. My youngest daughter Eleanor started in 2019 and I began working as a Nursery Practitioner in October 2019. I have worked in childcare since 2008, as a nursery nurse and sole charge nanny, qualifying with my CACHE Level 3 NVQ in Children’s Care Learning and Development in 2010. I achieved my Level 3 Forest School Leaders qualification in 2020. I love gardening and being outdoors.

Louise

Nursery Practitioner (level 3)

I joined St Michael’s in September 2019. My youngest daughter attended the nursery and we both fell in love with it, so when the opportunity arose I was delighted to be able to join the wonderful team. I have two daughters and in our spare time we enjoy walks with our dog Eva, family days out and catching up with friends and family.

Our student practitioners:

adnana

Nursery trustees:

Miranda

Chair and Ofsted Nominated Person

I am Chair of the Committee and took over the position at the end of 2021. I am Mummy to George and Ozzy.

My background is as an Assistant Headteacher in an Infant School and I recently started a new part time role! Being part of the Committee has been a great way to keep up to date with Early Years Education whilst I have been having some time away from the profession having my kids! It has given me a newfound sense of purpose and used my skills in a different way.

Verity

Vice Chair and Events

I am a mum of two wonderful boys, my youngest is currently at St. Michael’s.

I work in large public and corporate events as a Production Manager, I have really enjoyed transferring my skill set to help support the Nursery and its community.

Sophie

trustee

I’m Sophie and have had 3 children who have each enjoyed 2 years at St Michael’s nursery but have now moved onto school. I have previously fulfilled the role of treasurer but now that my youngest has left the nursery, I am stepping down from this role but staying on as a Trustee. As a family, we have been grateful for the wonderful foundation the nursery has given our children so it’s great to now be able to help contribute to it’s going success.

Jennie

Trustee

I have been involved with the nursery for over 18 years, both as a parent, a member of staff, and now as a trustee. I’m excited to stay with the nursery, continuing my relationship in a supportive role and assisting its continual development.