Meet our Preschool Team

Clare Dunn - Preschool Manager

Tell us a bit about yourself...

I have been in Early years since 2010 when my children were small. I started working in a local nursery as an unqualified practitioner in the baby room, and then completed my level 3 whilst working there. I then moved to a preschool in my home village as a deputy manager and during my time there I completed my foundation degree and then my BA (Hons) in Early Years. A while after that, I moved to another preschool to start as a manager and that is where I am until my move to Gateway.

How did you get into Childcare / Nursery Management?

I used to work in a college, teaching adults, however with young children, a move into Early Years worked really well for my family. I immediately loved it and knew this would be the right career path for me; so, I started my training and working my way up into management, which I really enjoy.

Why did the role at Gateway appeal?

I was initially drawn to the role as I was keen to work in a school environment as I have not worked in a preschool linked to a school before. Since seeing the school and learning more about it, it seems like a wonderful setting and I am really looking forward to joining the team.

What is your first memory of nursery / school?

I always remember school as being a place where I felt safe and was somewhere where I could be with my friends.

What is your proudest moment in work?

It would have to be developing my previous setting into somewhere that I feel immensely proud of, with a great team. Having our parents involved and saying how much their children love to come into the setting and how much they value it as a family.

What are the best and worse bits about working in a nursery?

The best part would have to be seeing the children grow and develop while at our setting. The worst is probably when they go up to school and having lots of them all leave at the same time.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself!

I love horses, and have ridden all my life - and we have 4 horses of our own!