Staffing

The staff in our Foundation Stage unit bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles, with many having worked with children for over 20 years. Their deep understanding of early childhood development allows them to create a nurturing, supportive, and enriching environment for every child. With years of experience, our dedicated team is committed to providing the highest quality care and education, ensuring that each child’s learning journey is both meaningful and enjoyable.

The following staff all work in the Foundation Stage Unit:

Deputy Headteacher with responsibility for Early Years

Mr Lindars is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Foundation Stage Unit and Early Years provision. He is the Reception Class teacher and the curriculum lead for phonics and mathematics at St Michael's.

Early Years Practitioners

Alison Smith - (Key Person - Level 3 in child care)

Debbie Walton 

Donna Morgan

Mandy Whitehouse - (Key Person - Level 3 in child care)

Sarah Smith - (Level 3 in child care)

Terri Blinman - (Key Person - Level 3 in child care)

Viv Westwood - (Key Person - Level 3 in child care)

At our nursery, while all staff members get to know every child really well, some staff act as a Key Person, providing personalised care and support. These Key Persons build strong, trusting relationships with children and their families, ensuring a smooth transition and a sense of security. This tailored approach helps children feel comfortable and confident, allowing them to flourish in a nurturing environment.

Reception Class Teaching Assistants 

Mrs Chaudhry - Leads the Nuffield Early Language Intervention (NELI) Programme and acts as a Key Person (Level 3 in child care)

Mrs Bray (Currently completing a Level 2 in child care)

Foundation Stage staff are supported by:

Head Teacher

Mrs Owen, the Head Teacher, has overall oversight of the provision and is responsible for the health and safety of staff and children and is the school's Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

Deputy Headteacher

Miss Martin, is St Michael's Deputy Headteacher and teaches Year 4. She leads the development of the curriculum and is one of the school's deputy designated safeguarding leads (DDSL). 

Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)

Miss Billingham is our school's SENCO and teaches Year 3. Miss Billingham is here to support your child with any medical, emotional, behavioural or special educational needs. She can be contacted through the school office:  office.3216@st-michaels-oxf.oxon.sch.uk.

Mental Health Lead

Mrs Hastings is the school's Mental Health Lead and teaches Year 6.

Administrative Staff

Lorna Graham- Senior Administrator 

Kaye Devine - School Finance Manager 

Louise Rosenberg - Nursery Coordinator 

Miss Baker - School Librarian

Most staff working in close contact with the children hold a Paediatric First Aid qualification.

All members of staff are DBS checked (Disclosure and Barring Service), and staff involved with food preparation and snack times have Level 2 Food Hygiene qualifications.