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.
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.
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!
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 spendingmy time with the preschool children especially doing arts and crafts activities!
We also have a part time Administrator to provide general support to staff and parents, and to coordinate our funding and billing.