Nursery Staff

Head of Nursery and Pre-Prep

Mrs Ellie King

I have a BA Hons in Primary Teaching (First Class) and my main role is to oversee the development of the Nursery. I am passionate about giving children the best possible start to their education by encouraging them to develop a deep love of learning from the offset. I am working with the Nursery staff to develop a curriculum that prioritises learning opportunities that support the development of key learning habits such as curiosity, collaboration and resilience using books as a stimulus. Exciting topics are supported by a rigorous framework to ensure that both prime and specific learning opportunities are mastered.

Head of Nursery

Mrs Janet Ewan

I hold Level 3 Diplomas in Childcare and Education and Management, a Level 2 qualification in Understanding Autism, and certifications in Safer Recruitment and Safeguarding Lead training.

With 17 years of childcare experience, I joined Hatherop Castle Nursery in June and was warmly welcomed. My journey has enhanced my understanding of child development and parent communication. As a mother of two, I bring personal insights and a compassionate approach, ensuring each child’s needs are met with care. I enjoy family time, volunteering at church, and creative projects, enriching my perspective on community and early childhood development.

Deputy Nursery Manager

Miss Amy Kavanagh

Miss Kavanagh has been working with children for 8 years. For the children of our nursery, she aims to gift them with the skills of developing into independent, caring, and respectful individuals, encouraging them to be their most authentic selves, and carrying
these morals throughout their lives. Watching children grow is a privilege for her, and it also encourages her to explore the many ways in which they learn, creating an environment that best supports this.
Outside of nursery life, she enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time with her friends and family.

Kindergarten Class Leader

Mrs Riana Easterbrook

I have been working at Hatherop Castle Nursery since January 2015.

I am a creative person and love doing arts and craft activities at home, so working with small children and helping them to create their very own masterpieces is great. I enjoy going for walks in the countryside and visiting my in-laws and family in France during the school holidays. I am now looking forward to starting my own family, after recently getting married, and hope to put my knowledge of little people to the test! 

Kindergarten Assistants

Mrs Lexi Russell

I am new to working at the Castle but have known it well for many years. My three children have all attended the nursery, with my youngest having just finished Transition in July 2024. I have a degree in Sociology from Exeter University, a professional background in interior design and personal assistance, and am currently pursuing my Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification. My experiences to date, along with being a mummy, have equipped me with a love of creativity and an understanding of the importance of creating a nurturing and engaging environment for young learners. I love the beautiful grounds of Hatherop and the homely, happy feeling of the school.

Miss Vicki O’Connor

Miss O’Connor has worked at Hatherop Castle Nursery since July 2023 and is currently working towards her Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification. One of the highlights of her role is seeing the children grow and develop, and witnessing their progress is a huge reward she experiences every day. Miss O’Connor has two French Bulldogs named Alvin and Rocco. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, as well as building Lego in her spare time.

Transition Teachers

Mrs Amy Montgomery

I have a BSc/BA (Hons) degree and a Primary Teaching PGCE with QTS. Before working at Hatherop Castle, I was the Head of Early Years in a central London prep school. I have worked at Hatherop Castle since 2023, supporting the learning of young children across the Nursery and Pre-prep. The aim for my classrooms is to be places of mutual respect and positivity. I have always loved the variety that a day of teaching brings and those magical moments when a child acquires new knowledge or a skill. Learning is fun! When I am not helping my husband renovate our home or playing Lego with my son, I like to read a good book and go for walks around the lakes. I also find time to play a game of social netball, which is a way to keep fit and have fun with friends.

Miss Emily Walthew

Mrs. Walthew completed a Level 3 Early Years and Education course in Scotland, which included working two days a week at the local primary school. She has been working with children for approximately seven years in various settings, such as a nursery, primary education, and nannying. A passionate hockey player, Mrs. Walthew regularly plays for a local team. She recently returned from travelling for six weeks in Southeast Asia and, a couple of years ago, travelled around New Zealand, Fiji, and Australia.