Kath Redmond - MANAGER
I have always lived in Dursley and I have 2 grown up children who came to Stepping Stones and this is how I first became involved. I started working here in 1999 when my youngest child started coming and I became Playleader in 2001. I studied for a range of childcare qualifications and in 2012 I gained a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies. As the Manager I am the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator and the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Learning through play and providing a warm, welcoming and supportive environment for children and their families are among the things we consider very important at Stepping Stones.
Allison Brisland – DEPUTY MANAGER
I first became involved with Stepping Stones in 2000 when the eldest of my 3 children started attending; my involvement grew when I joined the committee - helping out with fundraising and gaining valuable business experience. In 2004 I became Deputy Manager. After gaining a number of qualifications I also studied for a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies. Previously, I worked at Uley Playgroup and also as a child minder looking after children in my home; I strongly believe in the importance of children having a secure and nurturing environment during their early years and education.
Paula Mellerup – Early Years Practitioner
I have 2 grown up sons who both attended Stepping Stones and I began volunteering here before joining as an Early Years Practitioner in 2003. I have a Level 3 qualification in working with Children and Young People and I also have a Foundation Degree in Creative Practices. I have a keen interest in the arts and support the children’s creative and artistic development. I enjoy attending regular training courses to update and extend my skills. I believe that it is important to support children to develop holistically, becoming independent and having a range of interests and skills.
Liz Stackman – Early Years Practitioner
I have been involved with Stepping Stones since 1998 when the first of my 3 sons began coming. I worked as the Financial Administrator for Stepping Stones and also ran the Toddler group for a number of years before continuing my studies and gaining my Level 3 Diploma in Pre-school Practice. I have attended a range of relevant Early Years courses to extend my knowledge of the sector along with completing essential training in first aid, child protection and food safety.
Barry McGee – Early Years Practitioner
I have 3 sons and I live in Dursley. I volunteered at Uley Playgroup before joining Stepping Stones in 2014 where I studied for my Level 3 qualification in Children’s Care, Learning and Development. I have also worked at 'Allsorts' - a group for children with special needs, where I learned BSL. I am a keen musician and enjoy introducing the children to different musical activities. I often bring my guitar and enjoy lots of singing and musical activities with the children.
