Meet our team
Dawn Humphries — Owner/Manager
I’d like to share a little about myself and the journey which has led me to open Mulberry Bush Pre-school…
As mother to two children (George and Evie), when I went on maternity leave in 2006 I realised I had an opportunity to do something I had wished to pursue for a long time: to work with children.
I decided to start my own childminding business (Mulberry Bush Childminding). It was a wonderful experience. My practice was recognised as an Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ setting, with a reputation within the local community for delivering personally tailored childcare of the very highest standard. Mulberry Bush Childminding provided a diverse learning environment with the highest importance placed on learning through play. Those were some of my most cherished years, and my family and I made lots of little friends along the way.
The last Ofsted Inspector to Mulberry Bush Childminding recommended that I go into teaching, and I applied successfully as a Teaching Assistant at my local primary school. I have since spent two years there and have thoroughly enjoyed working in a school environment, supporting children in their learning whilst gaining valuable experience and support from a wonderful team of dedicated Teachers.
Having missed working with pre-school children — and all the fun that it entails — I decided to use my Early Years Foundation knowledge, alongside the invaluable experience gained from working within a school environment, to launch a fantastic pre-school of my very own. Mulberry Bush Pre-school is now an exciting reality and I look forward to inviting you and your precious children into our vibrant and engaging pre-school in Harold Hill.
Faye Richmond
Deputy Manager — I have five of my own aged 14, 11, 7, 5 and 3 (all boys) and a husband called Brian, as well well as my doggie called Jess (needed a little pink in my gorgeous Blue family).
I have worked in Early Years for over 10 years within Havering, and really love my work with young children. My typical day at present involves looking after under 5’s and creating fun and stimulating play for them whilst they learn through exploring and expressing themselves.I am well aware of the hardships parents face in finding the “Right setting” and will strive to ensure each Childs needs are met, and that they have a fun filled time whilst here at Mulberry Bush Pre-school. I have excellent relationships with Havering council and the Family Information services, as well as lots of friends within the community of Romford. I am well known to local churches, youth clubs, pre schools, primary and secondary schools PTA’s and many parents within our community and have always tried to help parents where I can.
I have a Can Do attitude and that’s how I tend to approach all situations — there’s nothing a community can’t do without support, and we at Mulberry preschool aim to be that support for your child.
I really look forward to meeting you and looking after your most precious gifts... your children.
Lara-Marie Thompson
Pre-school Practitioner — From a young age I have ways known that I wanted to work with Children. At school I took a shine to music and drama which I then went on to study in college. I did a two year national diploma in Musical Theatre which I really enjoyed, but still my passion was to work with children. After my two years studying Musical Theatre was over, I decided to move on into childcare. I studied in college for another two years in CACHE Level 3 Childcare and Education. During my time studying, I gained a lot of experience in working with children and young adults with learning difficulties, and also had the opportunity to work in various schools and Early Years settings. I am very pleased that I achieved both my courses in which I am very passionate about.
You?
We're currently looking for enthusiastic people to join our growing team, email Dawn with your CV.
