Introducing our new Nursery Practitioners

We’re delighted to have two new team members in the Nursery – Mrs Jennifer Kerby is looking after our Butterflies and Mrs Clare Wood is working with our Caterpillars.

Mrs Jennifer Kerby

Where did you work before?

I haven’t been in a nursery for a long time! I have been a private nanny for the past 6 years, all over the UK and the world. My favourite thing to do with my charges is to be outside, learning in nature!

Why did you decide to become a Nursery Practitioner?

Covid really changed the world of nannying, like so many areas of employment, and with a recent move to Colchester from my native Herefordshire, I felt a change in direction and into a more formal setting was a really positive move to make. I adore the nursery age range and felt that St Margaret’s ethos aligned closely with my own, so I am thrilled to be joining the team. I am also very much looking forward to having colleagues again!

If you hadn’t become a Nursery Practitioner/teacher, which career would you have chosen instead?

I come from a family of dairy farmers and am very passionate about agriculture and did toy with the idea of training in Land Agency – so either that or something where I would wear wellies every day!

How do you think your own school days have shaped your adult life? 

I hugely enjoyed my whole experience of schooling and have many lovely memories as far back as nursery. My nursery was in a farmhouse and we kept chickens and had pet ducks and I remember feeling very happy and free there! I think I have always thrived in an environment where there are clear boundaries and fair expectations, which I try to bring through into my own practice.

Which aspect of your job do you enjoy the most and what are you most looking forward to most in your new role?

The overwhelming privilege of seeing our world from a child’s perspective and often recognising just how wonderful some of the things we, as adults, take for granted. To see a child progress is just fantastic and aiding them in their development, helping them achieve new milestones and enjoying the journey of getting there too.

I am most looking forward to working within a school team that are clearly so dedicated and passionate for our precious Early Years children and of course, exploring wonderful grounds with the nursery.

How do you relax away from work?

I am so lucky to have grown up with horses and whilst I do not have my own anymore, I have found a wonderful stables very close to my new house where there are fantastic opportunities for long gallops and lots of fun! My husband and I recently brought home our very special little puppy, Margot, and walking her along the beach is a new favourite past time of mine!

Did you know? Please give us a fascinating fact about you.

I have galloped alongside giraffe in South Africa! And I also learnt that the collective noun for a group of giraffe is ‘a tower’ which I thought was very fitting!

Mrs Clare Wood   

Where did you work before, what did you teach?

Most recently I have been at home with my two young children, however before that I have been a childminder and previous to that I was a pre-school deputy manager, and have always worked with nursery aged children.

Why did you decide to become a Nursery practitioner?

I decided to become a nursery practitioner because I enjoy watching children flourish and develop and being a part of their journey.

If you hadn’t become a Nursery Practitioner/teacher, which career would you have chosen instead?

If I hadn’t been a nursery practitioner I would have joined the police as I enjoy making a difference to peoples lives.

How do you think your own school days have shaped your adult life?

My school days influenced my decision to work with children, the teachers I had at school were so fantastic that I knew I wanted to make that impact on children’s lives when I grew up.

Which aspect of your job do you enjoy the most? / What are you looking forward to most in your new role?

I love being outdoors and I am looking forward to developing the outside area to support the children’s learning.

How do you relax away from work?

Away from work I enjoy spending time with my two children, baking, days out and exploring outside. I also enjoy running, especially around the lovely countryside.

Did you know? Please give us a fascinating fact about you

In October, I hope to run my first half marathon.