Janette Godfrey
Manager / Leader
About Janette
As long as I can remember I have had a passion to support and care for children. I was invited to join Sandcastles following my parent involvement in 1993 and two years later I became ‘leader’, with a team of four staff. I love the challenge, the children, the families, the staff and everything about the job. During my time as Manager I have supported Sandcastles through many changes to see it become the ‘Outstanding’ setting it is today, with high quality experienced and trained staff. I have had many extremely proud moments during my position at Sandcastles but there is no better feeling than watching a child grow into a confident, happy, fulfilled person and knowing that you may have played a little part along the way. Read more…
Jackie Hardy
Deputy Leader / Early Years Educator
About Jackie
I have worked at Sandcastles since 2001, becoming Deputy in 2010. I absolutely love working with the children and every day brings new challenges, fun and laughter. It is a real privilege to play a part at the beginning of a childs’ journey into education, being part of such a great team and able to impact positively and improve outcomes. It is lovely to see how our children grow, develop and flourish over the time they spend here in preparation for their journey into ‘big school’. Although it’s always a sad time when we say goodbye to our leavers, it is so rewarding to know that we have done our best to ensure they equipped with the skills needed for the challenges that lay ahead. Read more…
Nicola Mears
Room Leader / Early Years Educator
About Nicola
I have worked at sandcastle playgroup as a practitioner since 2010, recently fulfilling a new role as room leader in the March of 2015. Throughout my education I always shared a keen interest for and wished to pursue a career in childcare. Undergoing both my diploma and degree which provided me with a deeper awareness, knowledge and further passion for the Early years. At sandcastles I’ve found more than I ever expected, providing wholehearted care and support for every child to reach their fullest potential, flourish and grow. Read more…
Chris Amies
Administrator / Early Years Educator
About Chris
I started at Sandcastles in 1996 after my youngest daughter left to go to school, and have been here ever since! In 2009 I was asked if I would consider helping with the mountain of paperwork that needs to be done to keep the playgroup running. To be able to combine working in the office & working with the children is just my dream job. My initial concerns that I would miss working in the playroom and the children too much were soon put to one side, the children often pop into the office to find me & I still get to ‘play’ on occasion. It is a privilege to watch as the children take their first steps in becoming independent & confident. Read more…
Jane Faherty
Early Years Educator
About Jane
I first became involved with Sandcastles as a parent; then in 1993 I joined the team as a member of staff. I have seen many changes over the years. I love to see children grow socially, making friends and developing their own preferences. What do I like most about working with pre-school children? Seeing children laugh and smile. Read more…
Jo Cook
Early Years Educator
About Jo
I have worked at Sandcastles playgroup since 1998 initially providing extra support as a 1:1 due to my own personal experience of having two children with Autism. I love my job and feel very privileged to work with all the lovely children and their families who pass through our setting. It’s so important that we teach our children so they can reach their full potential, that we understand them and give them the care and love they so deserve. They are our future. Read more…
Mandy Powell
Early Years Educator
About Mandy
I have worked at Sandcastles since 2001. I feel very lucky to work with an amazing team of ladies. No day is the same. Working with young children is not only tremendously rewarding; seeing them grow in confidence and ability; but also great fun too!! Read more…
Michelle Brown
Early Years Educator
About Shell
I joined the team of Sandcastle staff in 2005 and I can honestly say that working with children is the loveliest job I have ever done. It is hard work and challenging but the rewards are great. I work with a great team of ladies. They are not only a great support to work with; they have also become a fantastic group of friends. Read more…
Bonnie Holmes
Early Years Educator / Senco
About Bonnie
I love being part of Sandcastles. Supporting our fantastic children as they develop and achieve daily is very rewarding. I look forward to coming to work each day; no two days are the same and the children always manage to make me smile. I feel very lucky to be part of such a brilliant team in a wonderful setting. Read more…
Rebecca Laver
Early Years Educator
About Bea
I first came to Sandcastles as a mum back in 2010; clearly remembering leaving my little girl there for the first time. However difficult, I knew that she would be happy, safe and loved. As a Practitioner at Sandcastles there now, I keep hold of that memory and strive to make every parent feel assured that they can leave their children with us feeling the same way. Read more…
Emma Garwood
Early Years Educator
About Emma
I joined sandcastles as an apprentice straight from school. I have always known that I wanted to be in a career that involved caring and giving to others. Sandcastles have given me that opportunity and I feel privileged to be in a position where I can support and help children flourish. Read more…
Courtney Taylor
Apprentice
About Courtney
Courtney began an apprenticeship at Sandcastles in November 2015. Courtney’s profile will be updated soon.