Nursery

Mrs Willingham (Monday-Wednesday)

I would like to say a huge welcome to all our new children.  I am delighted to be in Nursery to help your children develop and grow in so many ways.  I will be working the first half of the week with Mrs Drozdek working the second half. We are both extremely passionate about the Early Years.  We are very fortunate to have Mrs Drozdek as our teaching assistant for the first half of the week and Mrs Smith as our teaching assistant for the second half of the week as well as Miss Thornton as our nursery nurse.  All three ladies have worked in the Early Years for many years and are nurturing and knowledgeable practitioners.  I, myself have had the privilege of working at St John Vianney’s for the past 18 years. My experience is within Early Years and Key Stage One, and I have worked in the Nursery since 2016.  I am extremely proud of our Nursery, the people who work in it and the wonderful children and families that come through the doors. 

I am also the Design and Technology coordinator and lead this throughout the school as well as leading clubs and whole school projects relating to this.  I lead on ‘Seeking Growth Together’ too, ensuring that children understand and use our British Values and Gospel Values in a positive and caring way.

At St John Vianney Nursery we believe in providing a safe and caring environment for our children.  I strongly believe that a language rich environment is immensely important, and I will work hard to ensure that your children grow in confidence with their oracy skills as well as developing the characteristics of effective learning (playing and exploring, active learning, creative and critical thinking).  Supporting their emotional and social growth is hugely important and I look forward to watching your children flourish in our nursery environment.

I am very excited to see the journey that your children will go on this year as they embark on or continue this early part of their education.  I understand what a big step starting nursery is for both the children and their parents. Please just ask if you have any questions.

We are made in the image of God, and through Jesus we use the talents we have been given to achieve the best we can. 

Mrs Drozdek (Wednesday-Friday)

Hello and a warm welcome to all our Nursery families!

My name is Mrs Drozdek and I’m so excited to be starting my first year as a teacher here at St John Vianney. I’ve been part of the Early Years team as a Teaching Assistant since 2018 and now feel truly honoured to step into this new role.

This year, Mrs Willingham and I will be sharing the teaching responsibilities in Nursery, with Mrs Willingham teaching during the first half of the week and myself covering the second half. We are lucky to be supported by two fantastic Teaching Assistants Mrs Bancroft and Miss Smith both experienced and passionate and very knowledgeable about Early Years.

Originally from Poland, I’ve lived in the UK for 20 years and have two children of my own who have both been part of the SJV family. Early Years has always been my passion – especially supporting children’s speech, confidence, and overall development in a nurturing and caring environment.

I know how big the first steps into school can be – not just for children, but for parents too – and I’m here to support you every step of the way. I can’t wait to get to know your little ones and help them learn, grow, and shine.