Setting Manager/DSL/SENDCo

Level 4 Advanced Practitioner, DSL, Level 4 SENDCo Award, First Aider, Level 4 PANCo, NVQ3 CCLD, Level 3 Supporting Children and Young People’s Speech, Language & Communication, Lift Off to Language Communication Leader, Lvl 1 Principles in Forest School.

Hello, my name is Rachel and I am the Setting Manager for Toddington Childcare and Forest School. In 2008, whilst my daughter was transitioning to Toddington St. George C of E School from Pre-School, an opportunity arose at the Toddington Pre-School Playgroup to work as a volunteer Early Years Practitioner. Having built a successful 20-year career in banking, this was a major turning point in my life. I soon realised how rewarding working with children and families could be and made a decision to embark on a new career path in Early Years Childcare and Education. I have never looked back! I began studying immediately and completed my Level 2 and 3 qualifications consecutively in Childcare, Learning and Development, whilst securing permanent employment at Toddington Childcare. In 2012, I was appointed as a Room Leader in the Zebra Room, working with 2-3 year olds and became the Two Year Old Coordinator. One of my passions is speech and language, and in 2015, I was given the opportunity to study for my Level 3 in Supporting Children’s and Young People’s Speech, Language and Communication and became one of our settings' Communication Leads. I also gained my Level 4 SENDCo award during the same year. As a result of this, I helped to develop a ‘Top Talkers’ programme with another work colleague and in November 2015, we were both invited by the Central Beds ‘Speech and Language Team’ to participate in a new pilot scheme called ‘Lift Off to Language.’ We completed training and rolled out our first ‘Lift Off to Language’ groups in January 2016 for our 3-4 year olds. Following on from the success of these, we were invited back to train for a ‘Lift Off to Language for 2s’ which we rolled out in January 2017. I was appointed as Pre-School Deputy in 2017 and completed DSL training and my Level 4 Advanced Practitioner qualification in 2018. In 2019, I helped to coordinate our first portfolio to gain our settings Communication Friendly Award and was later appointed as Setting Manager in May 2019. COVID-19 then happened, and with the loyal support of our staff team and committee, we managed to navigate our way through this difficult time and come out stronger on the other side. 

During my time at Toddington Childcare & Forest School, it has been an exciting journey full of opportunities to learn and develop my own knowledge, skills and practice, but most of all, it’s been a journey of privilege, leading a skilled and passionate team of Early Years Educators as the Setting Manager and continuing to work as a Key Person and SENDCo with many wonderful children, parents and families. Toddington Childcare & Forest School is a lovely place to work and I feel very proud to lead a warm, welcoming and professional team of Early Years Educators who strive daily to provide the best outcomes for our children. 

Danielle Mulligan

Business Administrator

NVQ Level 2 in Business Administration, First Aider

Hello, my name is Danielle, and I am the Business Administrator for Toddington Childcare & Forest School. I joined Toddington Childcare & Forest School in January 2020 as a Lunch Time Supervisor. I have a daughter and was looking for a role that would work around her, and at the same time, something I could potentially develop and progress my skills in. I hold a Level 2 in Business Administration and have extensive experience and knowledge of over 10 years working in a busy office environment. I also love working with children, so when an opening became available to use my Business Administration knowledge and skills and move into a full-time role as the Business Administrator for Toddington Childcare and Forest School, I felt like this was a perfect role for me. 

I really enjoy working at Toddington Childcare & Forest School, every day is a different but rewarding challenge, and I feel part of a lovely team. I am trained in Paediatric First Aid and have completed all relevant Safeguarding, Health and Safety and Prevent training.   

Marisa Perrini

Giraffe Room Lead / SENDCo / DDSL

Level 3 EYE Diploma, Level 3 SENDCo Award, First Aider

My name is Marisa. I joined the Toddington Childcare team in September 2018 when I began studying for my Level 3 Early Years qualification. Before this, I studied Level 3 Health and Social Care in sixth form for 2 years. I completed work placements in both a nursery and a lower school in Luton, and this is where I realised my interest in working with younger children, specifically in an Early Years setting. I enjoy looking after and caring for young children as they grow into their own personalities and characters. It is such a rewarding job, and I have enjoyed every minute since joining this team.

I now lead the Giraffe Room and have studied to complete my Level 3 SENDCo qualification. I am the SENDCo for the Giraffe Room and have also trained as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead. 

Josh Turner

Zebra Room Lead / DDSL / Health and Safety Officer

Level 3 EYE Diploma, First Aider

Hello, my name is Josh, and I am the Zebra Room Lead and Health and Safety Officer. I have more recently completed training to become a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead. 

During my ‘A’ Level studies, I began working for Toddington Childcare & Forest School during the Summer Term of 2018, helping with some general administration and site work after school. When I turned 17, I was given the opportunity to study Safeguarding and Prevent training and apply for an enhanced DBS certificate. This enabled me to work directly with children attending the After School and Holiday Club initially. I soon realised how rewarding this was and really enjoyed my time interacting with children and helping to build their confidence. In April 2020, I secured a Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship through BESA (Bedfordshire Employment and Skills Academy). During this time, I was able to broaden my knowledge and skills through my studies and with the support of my Setting Manager, Assessor and my mentor Sarah, I was welcomed into a great team. I qualified in February 2022 with a distinction at Level 3 in Early Years education and then took on the responsibility of Health and Safety Officer within the setting. I now coordinate our Health and Safety response in every aspect, coordinating repairs, training records and liaising with the Head Teacher at TSG school to coordinate our Fire, Evacuation and Lockdown procedures and drills. I was appointed as Zebra Room Lead in September 2024 and have really enjoyed developing my role over the past year, including training as a DDSL in November 2024, and I look forward to what the future holds.

Grace Burnage

Panda Room Lead / Kitchen & Food Hygiene Lead

Level 3 EYE Diploma, Level 3 Supporting Children’s and Young People’s Speech, Language and Communication, First Aider

Hi, I’m Grace, and I am the Panda Room Lead. I started as an apprentice in 2017 and completed my Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education in 2019, and went on to further complete an award in Supporting Children and Young People with Speech, Language and Communication in 2021. Shortly after this, I had a brief hiatus from working with young children and soon realised my passion lies with early years, and I returned to TCC in 2022. In my spare time, I love being active and enjoy the gym & running!

Forest School Lead/ Level 3 Early Years Educator

CYPW Level 3, Level 3 Forest School Award, First Aider

My name is Sarah and I have worked at Toddington Childcare since 2012. I started as a lunchtime supervisor and then studied towards a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification in 2013. One of the highlights of my time here has been helping to set up our Forest School from scratch. We have turned a piece of land into a natural space where children can benefit from new experiences with nature, build their confidence and a passion for outdoor learning. In 2017, I gained a Level 3 certificate in Forest School Programme Leadership. I have also been the Zebra Room Lead and Deputy until more recently. My job is very rewarding and I enjoy leading our Forest School programme for our Zebra Room children and seeing their confidence grow in the outdoor environment.

Sue Hickmott

Lift Off to Language Communication Lead / Level 3 Early Years Educator

CYPW Level 3, Level 3 Supporting Children and Young People’s Speech, Language & communication, Lift Off to Language Training, Level 1 Principles in Forest School, First Aider

My name is Sue. In 2010, I decided to change my career path and follow my heart and work with children. I have never looked back!

I feel I contribute to the setting as I have a very nurturing and understanding nature, and I believe that children deserve the right to be happy, cared for and be heard. I do my best to make sure that children in our setting receive the best care and education. I work in the Giraffe Room and enjoy watching our children grow in confidence, knowledge and independence, and it fills my heart with joy and a sense of achievement that I have prepared them for their next step in education. I live locally in the village and have a 20-year-old son who also attended Toddington Childcare & Forest School. I also work within the setting as one of the Communication Leads, and I run the Lift off to Language programme for our 3 to 4-year-old children in our Giraffe Room.

Haylee Richards

Forest School Lead / Level 3 Early Years Educator

My name is Haylee, and I am a Level 3 Early Years Educator and the Forest Lead for our Giraffe Room children. I have worked at Toddington Childcare & Forest School for 16 years. Before this, I studied Childcare at Central Beds College and completed my CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education. I started working at Toddington Childcare & Forest School in July 2009 in the Holiday Club and joined the Pre-school in September. I have been the Club Lead until very recently and became one of our two Forest School Leads after gaining my Level 3 Forest School qualification in February 2020. I now work in the Giraffe Room and deliver our Forest School programme for our older Early Years children in the Giraffe Room. I really enjoy this part of my job as I have a passion for outdoor learning from being a scout leader for many years.

Donna Mainwaring

Club Lead / Level 3 Early Years Educator

Level 3 EYE Diploma, First Aider

Hi, my name is Donna. I joined Toddington Childcare & Forest School in September 2020 as a Breakfast and After School Club Assistant. Prior to this, I worked in sales for 6 years and am a busy mum to 3 children. All of my children have attended TCC, and my youngest daughter attends Wrap Around care and Holiday Clubs with me. I have first-hand experience of working directly with young children, as I previously led a Beaver group for Toddington Scouts over a few years. My family and I love the outdoors and nature, and spend many hours outside walking and discovering the world around us. I am now qualified as a Level 3 Early Years Educator and am working with children and families in our Panda Room. I was recently appointed as Club Lead in September 2025 and am really enjoying this role and looking forward to what the future holds.

Megan Hopkins

Level 3 Early Years Educator

Level 3 Early Years Educator, First Aider

Hi, I’m Megan, and I’m part of the Giraffe Team as a Level 3 Early Years Educator. I first joined the setting when I was 15, straight after leaving school, and it has been such a special part of my life ever since. After having my first son, I was excited to return and carry on doing what I love most!



I’m passionate about helping little ones discover the world around them, supporting them as they learn new skills, and watching their confidence blossom. I enjoy creating fun and playful activities that spark curiosity, encourage creativity and allow every child to explore their own interests. Every child is unique, and I feel privileged to be part of their journey as they grow, learn, and achieve amazing things each day.

Outside of work, I’m also a face painter and love finding creative ways to bring joy to children’s lives. Whether it’s through painting, play, or imagination, I always enjoy bringing a little extra creativity and fun into everything I do!

Amy Husbands

Level 3 Early Years Educator

Level 3 EYE Diploma, Level 2 Understanding Autism, First Aider

Hello, I’m Amy, and I am a member of the Zebra Room Team. I am a Level 3 Early Years Educator and first began working at Toddington Childcare & Forest School in 2016. Before I started working for TCC, I completed 2 weeks of work experience and voluntary work during the school holidays. As a result of doing these, I realised I wanted to pursue a career in Early Years education. In September 2016, I started working for Toddington Childcare & Forest School as an apprentice, and then in October 2017, I secured permanent employment. I enjoy working at Toddington Childcare & Forest School, as I love the thought of knowing I’m going to help a child develop and learn in every aspect of their childhood whilst in our care. I love being able to see the children’s happy faces every day and watching them having fun with their friends and enjoying all the fun activities they are taking part in. Working at Toddington Childcare & Forest School is like working for a massive family, and I love being part of the Zebra Room team, working with the 2-3-year-olds. I have more recently completed a Level 2 Understanding Autism qualification and have an interest in supporting children with SEND.

Esther Harris-Worley 

Level 3 Early Years Educator

Level 3 EYE, Forest School Level 2, First Aider

My name is Esther. I joined Toddington Childcare & Forest School in 2018 after previously working in another setting as a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner. Since joining TCC, I have completed my Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification and Paediatric First Aid certificate. Working in childcare and education has always been my passion, and I find it extremely rewarding. I have worked in the Panda Room team until very recently and have now joined the Zebra Room Team in September 2025, and am looking forward to working with our 2-year-olds. 

Hayley Harrington

Level 3 Early Years Educator

Level 3 EYE Diploma, First Aider

Hi, I’m Hayley, and I work in the Giraffe Room. 11 Years ago, I left my job as a Senior Supervisor in a warehouse to be a stay-at-home mummy. We moved to Toddington in 2015, and I love this village. My two children attend local schools and have grown up enjoying all the Toddler groups in the village. I was also a volunteer at the Hurley Burley stay and play group in Toddington, which I absolutely loved. 

I started my journey with Toddington Childcare Forest School in January 2020 as a Lunch Time Supervisor. During this time, I was given the opportunity to cover some pre-school and after-school sessions. In June 2020, I began working towards my Level 2 Early Years qualification and completed my Paediatric First Aid training. I then continued my studies and am now a qualified Level 3 Early Years Educator working in the Giraffe Room. I really enjoy being able to express my own creativity with our children and love being a Key Person for a small group of Giraffe Room children and their wonderful families.

Laura Williams

Level 3 Early Years Educator

Level 3 EYE Diploma, First Aider

Hi, I’m Laura, and I work in the Zebra Room. We moved to Toddington in 2014 and have 2 children who attend our local schools in Toddington.

After being a stay-at-home mummy for several years, I joined Toddington Childcare & Forest School as a Lunch Club Supervisor in 2021. During this time, I was also able to cover some pre-school sessions, and I really enjoyed this time supporting young children in their play and learning experiences. In September 2022, an opportunity arose with BESA, formally Central Beds Training Academy, to study towards a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification. I am now fully qualified and have worked in the Giraffe Room and now in the Zebra Room Team, which I love. It’s so rewarding working with our children and helping them grow in confidence and gain independence.

Lynn Walsh

Level 2 Early Years Practitioner

CYPW Level 2, First Aider

Hi, my name is Lynn. After 20 years as a self-employed hairdresser, I decided on a career change. My own children attended Toddington Childcare and Forest School many years ago, and I was offered the opportunity in 2010 to work as part of the team. Since starting in 2010, I have achieved a Level 2 qualification as an Early Years Practitioner and have been working with our lovely Zebra Room children and families. I really enjoy working with children and seeing them thrive and develop throughout their time with us.

Amy Smart

Level 2 Trainee Early Years Educator 

Working towards Level 2 EYE, First Aider

Hi, my name is Amy. I joined Toddington Childcare & Forest School in September 2024 as a Trainee Early Years Educator. Before this, I worked as a Team Leader for Dunelm for a number of years, and after moving to Toddington 2 years ago with my young family, an opportunity arose to apply for a position at Toddington Childcare & Forest School. My daughter had already attended TCC and was moving into Reception, and my son was in the Zebra Room, so I already knew some of the staff as a parent really well. 

I have really enjoyed my time at Toddington Childcare & Forest School, and over the past year, I have had the privilege of working in the Giraffe Room and the Panda Room. I am nearing completion of my Level 2 EYE and will continue my studies thereafter onto a Level 3 EYE. I am now also First Aid trained. I am a Key Person for a small group of lovely children and their families, and I am now working in the Panda Room with our youngest children. I am really excited to continue my journey with TCC and look forward to what the future holds. 

Cheryl Bridge

Cleaning Duties