Our Team
Joanna Joannou
Managing Director & Preschool Manager
- Primary School Teacher (QTS)
- Early Years Specialist
- Key Person
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
- Special Education Needs Coordinator
- First Aider
Jo holds the PGCE in General Primary Education qualification with QTS to compliment her First Class BA (Hons) degree in Early Years: Teaching and Learning. She has worked with children from Early Years to KS4 for many years. Before taking on Bunnies Preschool she worked for the previous owner, during which time she completed her BA (Hons) Degree in Early Years: Teaching and Learning. Jo has a wealth of experience, ranging from primary teaching, outreach work and as an Assistant SENCo: Exam Access Arrangements Assessor.
Jo is known for her calm disposition, paying close attention to individual needs and supporting them creatively to reach their full potential. She has a passion for working with children, helping them learn and develop whilst having fun and enjoying themselves at the same time.
Vicky Martin
Early Years Practitioner & Preschool Deputy Manager
- EYP Level 3
- Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL)
- Outdoor Learning Lead
- Key Person
- First Aider
Vicky holds a Level 3 CACHE Diploma in Childcare and Education qualification. She has previously worked at a day nursery in Banstead, and joined us in September 2015 to specialise more in preschool aged children. Vicky has a caring and positive demeanour, approaching teaching and learning with much enthusiasm. She is skilful in encouraging creativity, as well as observing the development of personalities and humour of the children. She is always seen with a smile on her face, making her a delightful presence within our team. Vicky enjoys exploring a variety of learning strategies with the children, helping them develop the confidence to have a go in their own unique way.
Rachel Torbett
Early Years Practitioner
- EYP Level 3
- Key Person
- First Aider
Rachel holds a Level 3 NVQ in Childcare. Her previous experience as a nanny demonstrates her ability to provide a holistic approach to supporting children. She has a passion for developing her knowledge on Special Education Needs and Disabilities, supporting children as they navigate through their learning journey in their own unique way. Rachel has a beautiful bond with her own child, and it is evident that this reflects her nurturing approach with children. Rachel is the newest member of our team, starting in September 2024.
Maria Pailthorpe
Early Years Practitioner
- EYP Level 5
- Key Person
- First Aider
Maria holds a Level 5 Foundation Degree in Arts in Childcare and Early Years Education. She has 30 years experience working within early years, progressing to a Montessori Directress role in her previous employment. Maria’s calm disposition brings warmth to our learning environment as she tunes into children’s needs so attentively. She has a passion for the Montessori approach to learning, encouraging curiosity in the children’s play.
Sarah Read
Early Years Assistant
- First Aider
Sarah is a mum of four boys, two of whom were once part of our Bunnies community themselves. Sarah’s calm and patient nature, provides children with a sense of warmth and comfort when they need it. She observes children carefully to ensure she adapts her approach appropriately to facilitate their learning. Sarah is a valued member of our Bunnies team and the local area, and is a true example of the saying, ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’ Sarah covers staff in instances of absence and supports when we need enhanced ratio’s to support children with additional needs.
Sharon Fishlock
Early Years Practitioner
- EYP Level 3
Sharon is employed as Bank Staff and will cover for members of our team when needed or in some cases, is welcomed as an additional helping hand. She has an excellent sense of humour and the children welcome her playful approach. Sharon holds an NNEB in childcare, qualifying her as a Level 3 Early Years Practitioner. She enjoys supporting preschools, looking after her grandchildren and travelling. Sharon has a wealth of experience in childcare, her previous full time role being a Deputy Manager in a local preschool.