Our Team

​We have a committed team of caring and skilled staff at Benger Bears.  We share a wealth of knowledge and experience, and through regular training we keep up-to-date with best practice.  We are all trained in paediatric first aid, the EYFS and safeguarding.

We aim to offer a high adult to child ratio. Our key worker system also ensures that each child has a member of staff assigned to build an especially close relationship with them and their family.

Profiles

Vanessa  'Ness'  (Manager)

​I've been a member of staff at Benger Bears since 2004, and before that was involved as a mum and committee member.  I became Manager in April 2015.  I'm also the Safeguarding Lead and SENCO (Special Needs Co-ordinator) for the Pre-school.  I hold an NVQ Level 4 in Children's Care, Learning and Development and have completed many other courses. Over the years I've developed a lot of expertise in all aspects of pre-school care and most recently completed a Forest School Qualification.  ​I am very proud of the Pre-school and work very hard to ensure that children and their families have the best possible experience with us.  

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Tina  (Early Years Educator)

​I began working at Benger Bears in 2012.  I was then a volunteer, and loved coming in to help the children and see more of one of my grandchildren who was attending!  I became a member of paid staff in 2014 .  I love spending my time listening to the children's ideas and playing, and continue to learn new skills through training and working with my colleagues.

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Julie (​Deputy Manager)

​​Like Ness, I have been at Benger Bears over a decade; since 2005 on the staff team and before that as a mum and committee member.  I hold an NVQ Level 3 in Children's Care, Learning and Development.  I am dedicated to supporting the children and the setting in every way I can and have completed courses in many useful areas over the years, including in play, phonics and Makaton. I love planning and facilitating fun new activities, and creating lively displays of the children's work.  I am also our resident Play-doh maker!        

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Becky (Early Years Educator)

I started working at Benger Bears in 2021. I bring with me experience from working in a variety of Early Years settings and from being a mum to my two children. I hold a degree in Childhood Studies: Early Years and have completed many other courses. I love spending my time with the preschool children especially doing arts and crafts activities!

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We also have a part time Administrator to provide general support to staff and parents, and to coordinate our funding and billing.