Meet the team

Mrs Smithard - Class teacher

Hello, my name is Mrs Smithard and I am the school’s Early Years Phase Leader, which means I oversee the teaching and learning of all children within the Nursery and Reception classes.

After completing my degree in Psychology and Philosophy I undertook a PGCE and accomplished a number of postgraduate qualifications in Autism and Special Educational Needs (SENDco qualification) at UCL. 

It is my job to make sure that everyone who is part of our Nursery family is well looked after, which includes parents. I have over 15 years experience in Early Years and have taught in many Year groups within a Primary School. I have had the privilege of teaching and being part of a school leadership team for over 4 years, working in a variety of roles. Our Nursery Team has worked exceptionally hard to help create a Nursery setting that we would want to send our children to: healthy, safe, inspiring, and enriching, so every child can thrive holistically.       

I really enjoy leading the Nursery Team at Whyteleafe Primary School and welcoming families, so we can work together to achieve the best possible start in your children’s educational journey. In the Nursery it is paramount for children to gain independence through learning and having a supportive team will enable them to be confident and active learners. 

I often describe what we do as being a ‘Magic- Weaving Business’- we get the honour of experiencing priceless learning moments in your children’s lives that make a profound impact and difference in their foundational years. 

In my spare time I enjoy reading, dancing, going for long walks, and spending time with my friends and  family. My two children, who also attend Whyteleafe Primary School, also keep me very busy.  

Ms Stinston

My name is Miss Stinson. I have worked in childcare settings for a number of years.

I enjoy helping children on their early learning journey to ensure they are happy learners who have a warm and positive relationship with their education.

I completed my level 3 qualification in Children and Young Peoples Workforce then went on to complete a BA Hons degree in Early Childhood Education.

In my spare time I like to travel and spend time with my family and friends.

Miss Powell

My Name Is Miss Powell and I am an Learning Support Assistant within the Nursery. I have over 5 years experience working within nursery settings and  found my passion for childcare when completing work experience placements  at university where I achieved a BA Hons in Public Health and social care. I enjoy helping children right at the start of their learning journey.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, reading, caring for my pets and visiting the seaside.

Mrs Smith - Forest School

I am an Higher Level Teacher Assistant in the main school and lead our outdoor learning and forest school. Every Wednesday, I go over to the nursery and take the children across to Forest school for exciting learning adventures, testing their resilience and practising their skills

 

Miss Jade - Forest School support

I support Mrs Smith with forest school learning across the school and on a Wednesday, spends the day in the nursery supporting the children with their forest school learning and in the nursery setting too.

 

Key Person

Before your child starts at our Nursery we will come and visit you at home. This helps us get to know your child in the comfort of their own home and we will ask you to complete an "All About Me" form to support this. 

Once your child starts with us they will be allocated a member of staff who will be their ‘Key Person’. All our Nursery staff will get to know your child well but the Key Person’s role is to help your child settle and be someone they can relate to and rely on when they are with us. The Key Person will identify how your child learns through their play and be responsible for ensuring that the care your little one receives meets their individual needs. The Key Person will be your first point of contact for any questions you might have.

We will inform you of your child’s Key Person once they have been at Nursery for a few weeks. This gives us the opportunity to get to know your child and identify who the most appropriate member of staff is for your child. This is based on the relationship that your child has with the different team members and any additional needs or interests.

At Whyteleafe Nursery we use an online system called Tapestry to make regular observations of your child - we write down what they say and do and take lots of photos to keep you updated with how they are getting on.

We have an open-door policy, so please come in and speak to us if you have questions or need some more information.