Ruth Dowswell (Director & Founder)
Ruth founded Young Discoverers in 2008 because she saw the need for a quality childcare service that offered much more than simply somewhere to leave the children, and that ensured that they benefit from all the special moments that children enjoy when in their own home environment. She believes it is fundamentally important for each one of us to learn something new every day and build fulfilling relationships with those we spend our time with through work or play.
Ruth lived in Escrick as a child, and still has close links with the village, she cares passionately about the needs of working parents and their children as a working mum of two girls herself. Her girls are both proud founder Young Discoverers.
Prior to founding Young Discoverers, Ruth enjoyed a very successful career in banking over nine years as a Relationship Manager within the Commercial sector for a wide range of businesses, including a nursery or two, and brings with her a wealth of business experience. Before this she had a successful career in retail management with WHSmith Ltd.
Ruth has sound Commercial and Financial knowledge, and has sought career moves that challenge her skills base and give her opportunity to grow. Whilst she does not have considerable workplace childcare experience she has practical parental experience and manages the business. She is qualified in Paediatric First Aid and Food Safety, as well as Health and Safety to provide cover in these areas. Ruth is also returning to her studies, and undertaking her NVQ level 4 in Children's Care, Learning and Development.
The before and after school team
Heather Wilson (Before and After School Facility Manager - Holiday Club Coordinator)
Heather has a wealth of experience in childcare, and is qualified to NVQ level 3. She is an integral part of our Management team and continues to provide support to the Nursery as well as managing activities for the Before and After School facility. Heather also co-ordinates Young Discoverers 'holiday club' that operates from our Nursery site when schools out. Heather is undertaking her Playwork Certificate at NVQ level 3, which specifically considers the age group she is working with at the Before and After School Club.
Tina Carter (Playworker)
Tina joined us in 2008 when Young Discoverers first opened. She has previous experience of working with this age of children, and has obtained an NVQ level qualification as a teaching assistant. Tina is also keen to further her career and gain more qualifications in childcare, and has recently commenced her NVQ level 3 in childcare, learning and development, which extends her experience with younger children in the foundation stage.
The nursery team
Kathy Wainwright (Nursery Manager)
We have an excellent Nursery Manager in the shape of Kathy Wainwright. Kathy is an experienced childcare professional, having worked in various Early Years settings. More recently she has been Manager at Escrick Pre School and Playgroup, and we are delighted to have her on board. Kathy brings with her some excellent experience and ideas, and is keen for all of the children in the setting to receive the best level of care that starts with a home visit, and learn how they like to play before introducing them to the setting.
Samantha Bryan (Nursery Practitioner)
Penny Oldroyd (Nursery Practitioner)
Hannah Brown (Baby Room Supervisor)
Vacancies
Further vacancies will be available shortly and for which we are interviewing now, as our pre registrations continue to grow. We have a career succession plan in place for the benefit of all of our staff and the children they care for.