meet the team

Our Early Years Educators

Our early years educators have a wealth of knowledge and experience in childcare, with all being full or part qualified in their relevant qualifications.  Some staff have been at the setting for approaching 25 years and some have their own children and grandchildren. Our staff love being around children and enjoy watching the children grow and develop over the time that they are here.

Donna 

Early Education and Childcare Manager

Designated Safeguarding Lead

Level 4 in Early Years Practice

Hi, my name is Donna. I began working at Eynsford Village Pre-school around 35 years ago. Since that time, I have seen the pre-school change to what it is today. I have undertaken varying roles and am now the Joint Childcare Manager. I am Level 4 qualified through the Open University and I am also the Designated Safeguarding Lead. I have carried out very many training courses over the years to extend and enhance my knowledge.

When I am not at work, I spend a lot of time with my family, including my 8 grandchildren. I enjoy travelling in my motorhome, spending days at the beach and the park and having family bbqs.

Sam 

Early Education and Childcare Manager

SENCO

BA Hons in Early Childhood Education and Care First Class

Hello, my name is Sam. I have been working at the pre-school for over 20 years. I have seen it grow from a one room, pre-fab to the large setting it is today. I have a BA Hons (First Class) in Early Childhood Education and Care. Whilst it was hard juggling a fulltime job with study and a busy home life, the experience was a very positive one and I have been able to bring my increased knowledge and skills to my role as Joint Manager of the setting. I am also the setting’s SENCo.

I have three children who are now all grown up. I love spending time with my family and friends and like to travel. I have recently started to take an interest in growing some simple vegetables and herbs. Fingers crossed they turn out ok!

Cydney

Early years Educator 

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce

Hello, my name is Cydney (everyone calls me Cyder-ney!). I first came to Anthony Roper Pre-school as a student placement whilst studying my Level 2 qualification at college. I loved working with the children and staff at Anthony Roper so much I decided to stay and they supported me through my Level 3 qualification. I’m still here now! I’m continuing with my role as trainee Deputy Manager, alongside supporting Sam with the SENCo role, which is very exciting, and, as always, being supported by the best team in the world!!

I have lived in Farningham with my family for most of my life and, when I am not at work, I have a real passion for horses – training and competing with them in show jumping competitions.

Lauren

Pre-School Administrator

non qualified Early years educator

Hello, my name is Lauren, I work at the Pre-school as the office administrator. You could say I’m the one working behind the scenes but I also enjoy spending some of my time in the rooms with the children. That’s the most exciting bit of my job!

I have three young children myself and they, of course, keep me busy with after school activities and weekend hobbies.

Gemma

Deputy Childcare Manager

Pearson Ed excel Level 3

Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce

Hello, my name is Gemma, I have worked in childcare since 2010 and am Level 3 qualified.

I worked here at Anthony Roper Pre-school from 2015-2022 and I missed it so much that I came back in 2024.

I have a passion for Early Years Education and making a difference to lives of the little people who I have the privilege of looking after.

I have 3 grown up children and spend a lot of my free time with my many little nieces and nephews. I also enjoy long walks with my dog and love getting away on short breaks I the UK.

Mandie

Early Years Educator

Level 3 Diploma for The Children and Young People’s Workforce (Early Leaning and Childcare)

Hello, my name is Mandie. I am Level 3 qualified. I have been working in Early Years for 11 years and joined Anthony Roper Pre-school in January 2022. I really enjoy watching the children grow and learn.

I have two grown-up children and a dog called Alfie, who I enjoy taking on long walks.

Debbie

Early Years Educator

CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Pre-School Practice

Hello, my name is Debbie. I am Level 3 qualified and have worked in Early Years for over 20 years. I have worked at Anthony Roper Pre-school for 5 years and love getting to know the children and their families.

I have two grown-up sons and three grandchildren, who I love spending time with at the weekends.

Zina

Early years educator

CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the children and young peoples Workforce (QCF)

Hello, my name is Zina, I am a Level 3 qualified member of the team. I have worked in the Early Years sector since 1996 and find it challenging, exciting and

rewarding. I joined Anthony Roper Pre-school in January 2023 and am enjoying my time at the setting, getting to know the team, children and families.

I have two grown-up children and I love painting, art and reading.

Tammy

non qualified Early years Educator 

Hello, my name is Tammy. For the last 17 years, I have been busy raising my 4 sons, as well as looking after my twin niece and nephew.

I knew that, on my return to work, I wanted to work with young children, watching them learn, grow and laugh – no two days are the same.

My interests include reading, music and history, but my passion lies in taking care of animals. I volunteer for local wildlife charities, rescuing and rehabilitating foxes and hedgehogs. I am also a beekeeper

Angela

level 3 qualified early years educator