Our Staff

Our Staff

ELAINE ALLEN – Manager

Elaine has worked at Muddy Boots since it opened in 1996, and is deeply committed to providing a high level of child care. She is passionate about her work and that reflects in the great relationship she has with the children and staff. She works hard to ensure each child's needs are met and is always available to parents and carers to discuss progress and support any aspect of family life. She is determined to create a nurturing environment with a family feel where children can thrive. She is committed to the future of the preschool, supporting fundraising and development of the setting.

Qualifications:

Level 3 qualified

Trained in Management and Safer Recruitment

Trained in Safeguarding and Child Protection

Trained in Paediatric First Aid

Child Protection Officer

Health and Safety Officer

Trained in Food Hygiene


CAT ALLEBONE - Deputy Manager

Cat joined Muddy Boots in September 2018, and supports Elaine as Deputy Manager. They work closely together in planning the curriculum and running the pre-school. Cat is active in supporting families and children, and also supports our management committee and fundraising team. The children love to get involved with her many arts and crafts projects - Cat and the children produce some wonderful displays! She is our Inclusion Manager (SenCo), and works tirelessly in supporting children with SEND and their families. She is committed to making Muddy Boots a welcoming, calm experience for children, where they can learn and develop happily.

Qualifications:

Level 3 qualified

Trained in Paediatric First Aid

Trained in Safeguarding and Child Protection

Child Protection Officer

Inclusion Manager (SenCo)

Trained in Food Hygiene


ANDIE MERREY - Administrator

Andie joined the team in November 2011, with her primary role being Administrator. She runs the office, and is the first point of contact for parents, colleagues and outside agencies. She also supports colleagues in maintaining our marketing and social media presence. Andie is committed to the smooth running of all admin within the pre-school, and over the years has made the job her own. She also works in the playroom, so gets to spend time with the children, getting to know them and having lots of fun!

Qualifications:

Trained in Paediatric First Aid

Trained in Safeguarding and Child Protection


JACKY SMITH - Pre-school Assistant

Jacky joined Muddy Boots in 2017, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge from her many years in education.  Jacky has an instinctive understanding of how to encourage children to try new things and reach their goals whilst still having lots of fun! She communicates well with her colleagues so that staff work together towards a common goal with those children who need extra care and attention.

Qualifications:

Qualified Teacher Status

B ED (hons) in Teacher Training

Trained in Paediatric First Aid

Trained in Safeguarding and Child Protection

Trained in Food Hygiene

Health and Safety Support


MOLLY BAXTER - Pre-school Assistant

Molly joined the team in June 2022, after working at another pre-school. She has been working in early years since leaving college, and is a very enthusiast and supportive member of staff. She has bonded with the children very quickly, and works confidently in focussing and settling the children.

Qualifications:

Level 3 qualified

Trained in Paediatric First Aid

Trained in Safeguarding and Child Protection

Trained in Food Hygiene

S.E.N.D Support


JENNY BARKER - Pre-school Assistant

Jenny joined Muddy Boots originally in 2017, but after a break has returned to us in 2022! She has a great deal of experience, and has a talent for helping children to settle quickly and relax into the Muddy Boots way of life. Jenny understands the importance of learning through play, and brings this understanding easily into activities with the children. She is approachable and builds good relationships with parents and colleagues.

Qualifications:

Level 3 qualified

Trained in Paediatric First Aid

Trained in Safeguarding and Child Protection

Trained in Food Hygiene

Health and Safety Support