We provide a low adult to child ratio and never exceed a 1:4 ratio for under threes or a 1:8 ratio for three to five year olds. We employ a mixture of permanent and temporary childcare professionals, to enable us to continually flex and adapt to demand for places. Our temporary staff are usually ex-permanent staff who continue to help out on an ad-hoc basis. Our permanent staff are:
Manager and Designated Safeguarding Lead: Helen Morris manager@dorchesterpreschool.co.uk
“Over 15 years at this setting I have seen so many children grow up to young adults now, I love that each day is so different to the next. Watching them form friendships and working with a positive and enthusiastic team is great too!”.
Helen joined in 2008, she has over 20 years experience working with children, she loved meeting new children and parents, visiting new places with her teenage daughters and has a love for reading.
Qualifications: NVQ level 3 in Childcare, Early Years training in Early Learning Goals, Footsteps safety outside & proficiency in cycling, Wellcomm, Maths & Language Coordinator, Teeth Care, Food Hygiene, Designated Lead Safeguarding and Paediatric First Aid.
Deputy Manager and Designated Safeguarding Lead: Ella Crookston
“Working at Pre-School is such a pleasure, each day is full of laughter and new adventures. It’s amazing to see every child learn and develop their unique personalities”
Following her work placement with us, Ella joined us full time in September 2021. She loves exploring whilst walking her dog, is very family orientated and attended this setting herself when she was 3 years old!
Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in Childcare, Wellcomm, Teeth care, Food Hygiene, Safeguarding and Paediatric First Aid.
Pre-School Assistant Apprentice: Chloe Ashley
“It’s an amazing job to be able to shape young minds and support the start of a child’s educational journey, not to mention how lovely the staff are too!”
Coming from a nursery setting, Chloe joined us in 2022 and is currently studying for her Level 3 in Childcare, to be qualified in November 2023.
Qualifications: Safeguarding, Paediatric First Aid, Wellcomm, Teeth care, Food Hygiene
Pre-School Assistant: Christina Murby
Joining the team in September 2023, Christina is a mum of 4 and brings with her a passion for teaching and helping children flourish.
“I like helping the children learn new things and watching them grow”
Qualifications: Level 1 Safeguarding, Level 2 Awareness of Child Abuse and Neglect, Neglect, Child Exploitation, Child Sexual Abuse, Prevent, FGM, Think Family, Spotlight on an unseen child