Willows Team
Willows Pre-School/Nursery
Meet the Hammersmith Nursery Team
Deepti
Position: Area Management
My name is Deepti and I am the Principal at Willows Hammersmith. I have a BA Hons degree in Psychology with a Qualified teacher status and an Early Years Professional Status. I have over 20 years of experience in my Early Years both in local as well as international environments. I enjoy travelling and soaking into different cultures. I enjoy going for long walks with the music in my ears.
Emma
Position: Management
My name is Emma, and I am the Deputy Principal of Willows Hammersmith as well as a key person in the preschool room. I have a BA Hons in Learning and Teaching and I have been working in Early Years for 10 years. I enjoy reading and being creative and doing crafts, such as pottery and drawing. I also enjoy being outdoors; going for long walks and hiking outside of London when I can.
Veronika
Position: Management
My name is Veronika, and I am a key person in the toddler room. I have a QTS. I enjoy travelling and learning new languages. I am originally from Hungary and speak English fluently as well as Hungarian and I am learning to speak Italian.
Danlyn
Position: Management
My name is Danlyn, and I am a key person in the baby room. I have a diploma in Early Years. I enjoy being outdoors, going for walks and spending time with my grandchildren. I also enjoy reading and socialising with my friends and I speak English.
Fernanda
Position: Teacher
My name is Fernanda, and I am an assistant in the preschool room. Soon I will be starting level 2 in childcare. My native language is Portuguese, but I also speak English. I enjoy learning new language skills as well as painting, baking, and cooking.
Betty
Position: Teacher
I am Betty, and I am an assistant. I have a level 2 in childcare, and I enjoy creative writing, spoken word, poetry, singing and going to the theatre. I love to bake and cook and spend time with my family and friends when I can, I speak English.
Laura
Position: Teacher
My name is Laura, and I am a key person in the toddler room. My hobbies include going to the movies, trying new foods, and socialising with my friends and family, and I speak English.
Samantha
Position: key person
My name is Samantha. I am a key person in the preschool room. I am a degree holder with years of experience in a global and local environment. I enjoy reading and trying new foods. One of my favourite things to read is Shakespeare’s poetry. I love to sing and can often be heard singing in the classroom.
Malcolm
Position: key person
My name is Malcolm and I am a music teacher. I play the guitar and keyboard and have a passion for languages. Outside of Willows, I teach music privately as well as enjoy playing in my own band.
Natasha
Position: Key Person
My name is Natasha and I am a key person in the preschool roomI have an EYPS (Early Years Professional Status) and I have many years experience working with children and young people. In my free time, I enjoy swimming and reading when I can. I also enjoy going to the theatre and spending time with my family.
Valerie
Position: Key Person
My name is Valerie and I am a key person in the baby room. I am very creative and enjoy creating a range of things. I enjoy singing and used to sing professionally for a number of years. I am an avid doll collector and also enjoy cycling in my free time.
Deborah
Position: Nursery Assistant
My name is Deborah and I am an assistant in the toddler room. I speak both English and my home language of Portuguese. In my free time I really enjoy doing puzzles, with Tetris being one of my favourite games to play. I also really enjoy reading and my favourite book is a Portuguese book called The Miles.
Noon
Position: Nursery Assistant
My name is Noon and I am an assistant in the baby room. I enjoy spending time with my friends, participating in swimming and spending some quality time with my younger brother. I love to travel and new experiences abroad are something I look forward to.
Debbie
Position: Nursery Assistant
My name is Debbie, and I am an assistant in the baby room. I speak English and soon I will be studying for my level 3 in childcare. My hobbies include going to the theatre, Concerts, Cinema, walking, and swimming. I also enjoy reading, history, and being with my grandchildren and family.
Tasnim
Position: Housekeeper
My name is Taz, and I am a housekeeper. I speak English, Hindi, Guajarati, Kachhi, Urdu. My hobbies include reading, travelling, and socialising with friends and family.
Shah
Position: Housekeeper
My name is Shah and I am one of the housekeeping team. I am very creative and really enjoy designing clothes in particular.
Victoria
Position: Housekeeper
My name is Victoria and I am one of the housekeeping team. I enjoy spending my free time with my family and friends. I also enjoy spending time with the children at nursery throughout the working day.
Meet the Colliers Wood Nursery Team
Genevieve
Position: Management
Early Years Professional Status and BSc Psychology
Is the glass half empty or half full? I like to think of it as half full. Positivity radiates in a holistic environment which I strive to create, with our little learners! I have been dedicated to the field of Early Years for over a decade and have worked with children from babies to young teens.
As a result, I believe strongly in the power of diversity and the innate potential of every child. I value inclusion and actively seek to discover the unique voice of each child as they develop. I enjoy cooking different cuisines (the chillier the food, the better!) I love travelling and meeting new people and embracing different cultures. With my mezzo range voice, I enjoy singing and writing songs. My interests involve wellbeing, fashion & conversations with friends and family on current affairs!
Best book read: The Secret, read it, then you’ll know why!
Mireille
Position: Management
BA (Hons) Early Years: Education & Leadership in Practice
Interests: Reading, gardening, watching actual story and action films, cooking and travelling.
I enjoy teaching new skills and observing children develop in their interests. I relish listening to their talking and seeing how I can increase their learning. I find great satisfaction in seeing them mastering milestones such as toilet training. They are impressed by my different tone of voice to light up a celebration or follow the rules. I like to deliver to the best of my ability and being a Mum has enabled me to relate to new parents with their fears and the simple joy of seeing their children growing.
The best book read is: The Bible“
Ana
Position: Deputy
My name is Ana Alvarez Alves, I’m a Spaniard who has been in the UK for over 18 years. I have a QTS qualification as a Primary English Teacher, achieved in Spain prior coming to the UK.
I have a passion for teaching – something I developed and wanted to pursue since childhood during my elementary years. I have acquired more than 16 years’ experience in diverse Settings across London with children ranging from 1 to 5 years old.
I feel confident in my practice and extremely enjoy creating bonds with the children and families I interact with – I feel fulfilled seeing them grow anddevelop through the years. It has been nearly 5 years since I started working at Willows. Began as a Caterpillar Teacher, then aroom leader and finally being promoted to Deputy Principal.
Being a mum myself, I understand and appreciate the value of high-quality education which is always focused on children’s needs, interests and abilities as well as supporting parents during every stage of the way. I’m looking forward to seeing you around and come to join the Willows family.
My favourite book is: The Shadow of the Wind: by Carlos Ruiz Zafón.
Savita
Position: Teacher
I have worked in childcare for over ten years. My aspiration is to consistently work closely with colleagues to establish the highest standards of achievement & responsibility for the welfare & safety of all, creating a positive working environment.
I am creative, conscientious, flexible, patient & enthusiastic which has culminated in various fundraising projects for children in my spare time such as National Deaf Children’s Society, Hope, Medical Aid for Palestine & Sickle Cell Society. I am friendly, passionate & enjoy working with a variety of people. I appreciate the arts & a holistic lifestyle, that includes making healthy, conscientious & sustainable choices
In my creative endeavours I have studied Footwear & Accessories Design at the world renowned Cordwainers College in London. This culminated in exhibiting my footwear designs at the prestigious London College of Fashion. The display provided a snapshot of women’s shoes across 300 years from graduates, to historic items. In addition to exhibiting at the Clothes Show Live project in Birmingham & MTV fashion exhibition in Paris, France.
Perry
Position: Under 3s Room Leader
Level 3 in Early Learning & Childcare
I have been working in childcare for 10 years, spending most of it at Willows.
One of my passions is art, particularly drawing, painting, watching movies, playing video games and collecting Japanese Pokémon cards. I spend a lot of my spare time creating personal projects and I also like to help children to stretch these skills too.
I like to travel and experience different cultures, customs and foods, and I also enjoy reading books and comics (Marvel all the way) in my spare time.
I enjoy the new challenge that is presented every day and helping to develop children’s interests and skills.
Best book read: ‘Atlas Shrugged’”
Chris
Position: Pre-School Room Leader
Post Graduate Cert in Education (PGCE), & BA Hons in Animation
A former primary school teacher and graphic designer.
Supported, by my gang of phonics puppets, to cement their early understanding of the Department for Education’s, “Letters and sounds scheme”, I persist in giving your child the support they need for this special transition.
Introducing a detailed expansion of the ”Understanding of the world” area, and implementing Science experiments galore, I strive to both fascinate and enrich my student’s minds, playing on their natural curiosity!
Be warned… I really get into character, through all areas and have a dressing-up bag, full of character costumes to address all topics!
Best book read: George’s Marvelous Medicine by Roald Dahl
Georgina
Position: Teacher
Foundation Degree in Early Years Childhood Studies
Hello I’m Georgina, I have had the privilege of working with children for over 10 years and the journey has been rewarding. I have learnt so much on the way, from the children, parents and work colleagues past and present. I am a bubbly person who loves to make people smile, I love looking after children, teaching them and them teaching me on how to be a better teacher. I have always said from when I got into childcare I would treat the children with so much care and protection just how I would for my own. My aim is to give the children the best learning experience whilst in my care to help them grow and develop. It takes a BIG heart to shape little minds!
Best book read: Manifest Now
Magda
Position: Teacher
Hello! My name is Magda, I was born and grew up in Poland.
I have chosen to work in the Early Years sector, simply because I like children. I love spending time and having fun with them. I like to talk with children about different matters, seeing the world from their perspectives and through their eyes. I come from a big family and have lots of little cousins, therefore spending time with the children was always very natural for me. I graduated with BA in Education and Early Childhood Studies not long ago, and I am learning each day what it really means to be a good educator. I strongly believe that working with and for children is much more than just a job; it is truly a mission. When I am not in the nursery, I like to cook, trying out new recipes, whilst listening to music. One of my favourite books includes The Little Prince.
Maria
Position: Teacher
Advanced Technician In Early Years Education Higher National Certificate
I was born and raised in Madrid (Spain). I consider myself very lucky since working with children is my passion.
I have had the opportunity to work with infants, toddlers and preschoolers around the world, in countries such as Germany, Chile, the United States and Spain. I arrived in the UK alongside my husband and my little one Olivia in August 2020, where we are starting to live a new adventure.
In my spare time, I love to spend time with my family and travel. In my opinion, there is no better way to live life.
Merlinda
Position:
Hi, My name is Merlinda Agalliu. I was born in Albania and I grew up in Greece. I Graduated from Technical Vocational Educational High School to be a Care Assistant. I worked in care homes and domiciliary care for six years, but I always loved the idea of working with little people, and when I finally got the chance to do that, I loved it! I’m a bubbly person and very sociable. I enjoy listening to music, watching series and movies and taking pictures of nature and people. I also love dancing and singing. What I enjoy mostly working with young people is that one hug or smile from them can make your day so much better and you get to watch them grow into their personalities, which is a true blessing.
Rosi
Position: Support Teacher
Hi, I’m Rosi and childcare is a lifelong learning experience as you are able to discover new ways of thinking and seeing things from a child’s perspective, which is priceless. A child is full of curiosity and eager to discover new things. When I started working with children, I realised that every new thing you teach them will make you feel happy, because they enjoy learning new things. In my spare time, I enjoy dancing, exercising and spending time with my family.
Maria C
Position:
What I love the most of working with children, is giving them the possibility of being who they want to be and offering them the best version of themselves: strong, happy and independent individuals. As the time progresses, I am setting for them an environment full of love, security and chances to learn and grow. As well as this, seeing their smiles and being able to watch them flourish gives me all the joy and the reassurance that teaching is my place.
Best book you’ve read: As a book lover, saying just one book might be a bit hard, so I would go with Wuthering heights by Emily Brontë, Frankenstein by Mary Shelly, Nada by Carmen Laforet, La sombra del viento by Carlos Ruiz Zafón and Os pazos de Ulloa by Emilia Pardo Bazán.
Meet the Wimbledon Nursery Team
Blenda
Position: Management
Blenda is our principal at Willows Preschool Wimbledon, and she joined the team in April 2022.
Blenda has a Master’s Degree (L7) in Pedagogical Sciences and Educational
Planning, she has over 5 years of experience in childcare in London and over 10 years of experience in childcare in Italy, where she owned and managed her children’s centre and her two nurseries. Her passion and curiosity for children’s development have pushed her to explore and understand the childcare sector and the children’s need to provide for the best environment and learning for the nursery she had under her supervision.
Blenda Likes travelling and exploring natural and historical places Her favourite books are “We are going on a bear hunt” by Michael Rosen & Helen Hoxenbury and “If this is a man”, by Oriana Fallaci
Amelia
Position: Management
Amelia has a first-class honours degree (level 6) in Early Childhood studies from the University of Roehampton and holds a full SENCO qualification. She began working for Willows Pre-school in 2015 as a teacher and has since been deputy and interim principal of the Colliers Wood branch before returning to our Wimbledon branch. She has also worked for Merton council for a year in the family wellbeing team supporting families experiencing domestic violence, financial difficulties or those with children with special educational needs. She loves all animals and gardening, especially growing vegetables.
Her favourite book is Matilda by Roald Dahl.
Edyta
Position: Teacher
Edyta has a Master`s Degree in The Feld of Elementary Education, QTS and she has always been surrounded by a teaching environment since she was born. Adyta has been working in primary school in Poland for 15 years and she has got other additional 9 years of experience working in London.
When Edyta joined Willows Preschool in June 2021 as a Key Person for the group age of 3. Her passion for children allows her to connect with them naturally using a wide range of different approaches and materials, catching their attention and curiosity.
Edyta Likes Theatre, Traveling and go to natural places, Reading and her favourite book is“Pippi long stockings” by Astrid Lindgren.”
Aliona
Position: Teacher
Aliona has been working for Willows Preschool as Housekeeper for 3 years and a half and after getting her QTS qualification, she has become one of our preschool teachers doing also Music lessons for our settings as she has a Degree in Music.
Her love for children and childcare has pushed Aliona to explore new ways to approach children by providing a high level of education and care.
Aliona is an enthusiastic person who likes cooking, cycling, and spending time in nature, with family and friends.
Her favourite book is “The Enormous Turnip” by Katie Daynes.
Kayla
Position: Teacher
Kayla has been working for 7 years in childcare and she joined Willows Preschool in April 2022 and she is one of the two Key Persons for the youngest group of children in our setting, Monkeys.
Kayla has L6 in Early Childhood Studies and her passion for children pushed her to create new and existing activities for the children and to adapt her way to teach to their needs.
Kayla has also built a strong relationship with parents and colleagues, supporting the whole setting.
Kayla enjoys socialising and share her time with family and friends, her favourite book is Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman.
Zina
Position: Support Teacher
Zina joined Willows Preschool in December 2021, she works as Teaching Assistant and the children adore her. Zina loves working with children, she is passionate about teaching and following the children’s natural growth.
Zina has built strong relationships with children, parents and colleagues and is always happy to help to make the day go smoothly.
Zina likes Traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Her favourite book is “Peace at last”, by Jill Murphy”
Beverley
Position: Chef
Beverley has worked in nurseries for 20 years and she joined Willows in 2011 as Head Chef of Willows Nurseries.
Her qualifications, 706/1 706/2 in Catering, plus her experience and expertise in
food, makes her highly qualified for the role she works in.
Her passion for healthy food, healthy lifestyle and children has had a positive
impact on the nursery and the way we provide high quality food for the children and staff. As a result, Willows Nurseries have been recognised as one of the only two nurseries in the UK that has achieved the Specialist level of the Early Years
Nutrition Partnership (EYNP).
Beverley likes travelling and her favourite book is “The magic faraway tree” by Enid Blyton.“
Barbara
Position: Lunch Assistant
Barbara has been working for Willows Preschool for over 10 years as Housekeeper, Lunch Supervisor and Teaching Assistant.
Barbara has a very vibrant personality and she bring it in the nursery through her joy and love for life.
She loves working with children and during lunch time she engages with them telling stories.
Barbara is our art director, in fact when planning our plays, she is who guides the children and makes them perform at their best.
She likes animals and especially dogs, she also likes theatre and shows.
Sarah
Position: Housekeeper
Sarah joined Willows preschool in April 2022 as Housekeeper and since then she has built strong relationships with children and colleagues.
Her passion for children has allowed her to interact, engage and support them throughout the day.
She has also shared her wish to become one day a teacher, showing to be keen to start her L2.
Sarah likes reading and long walks, and spending time with friends and family.
Her favourite book is “The Gruffalo”, by Julia Donaldson and the “Room on the Broom”, by Julia Donaldson.”
