St Joseph's Catholic Primary School

Alison O’Shea - Manager and DSL
Experience & Qualifications:
Level 6
(BA Hons) Education and Training Studies

I have updated my training needs throughout the years to the present day.

I became involved firstly as a voluntary parent helper in 1986 at St Joseph’s known then as a play group. This transferred from Queens Road to the school. I have a long history of over 30 years of service to St Joseph’ school. I became the pre-school deputy in 1999, after some years of being an assistant to the preschool. I took the leading role in the year 2000 until the present day.

I have a constant enthusiasm for my work since starting to work with young children. I have always been conscious to keep up with the changing times so that I may best support families and service the community.

I like to share an interest in and bring innovative ideas to the setting. To undertake any duties in promoting the high quality of the setting. Liaise effectively with parents ensure each child’s individual needs are met. To ensure the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage are constantly reviewed and met. To ensure the overarching principles are met: To promote team cohesion and support appraisals. To be respectful in keeping a fair and open mind towards others. To ensure staff and children are always safely deployed.

I truly feel this was my vocation in life and I feel honoured to be able to support children to flourish and meet their full potential whilst learning through play. The children bring a sparkle to my eyes and warmth in my heart that is so rewarding.

Fiona Woodall - DDSL
Over 18 years’ experience working with children.

Studied early childhood studies at Roehampton University.

Worked at breakfast club and managed tea time club.

I love working at St Josephs and have always been made to feel that I am part of the family. I have built up long lasting relationships with different families over the years and enjoy watching the children progress from Pre-school through two years and beyond. My work colleagues are a big part of my life, and I think of them as well friends as well as colleagues.

Jill Cairns
I have been working for St Joseph’s Child Care Group since 2000. I started at St Joseph’s school as a dinner lady and then, in 2002, was offered a job as a key worker at St Joseph’s Pre School where I went on to obtain an NVQ Level 3 in Childcare.

I thoroughly enjoy working with children as every day is a different challenge, which is very rewarding. Every child is unique and their learning, which differs in each stage of their development, is very important to us and we love to see them flourish as they get ready for their first days at school.

Karen Bell
I have been working for St Joseph’s Child Care Group since 2024 at the schools Nursery. I joined the Teatime club in January 2025 to gain experience with all age groups. I transferred to the pre-school in 2025 as a key person at St Joseph’s Pre School. I am currently studying my Level 3 apprenticeship in childcare. I greatly enjoy working in childcare as I can see the children develop their milestones as they have fun whilst learning. I feel this is a vocational experience that I’m happy to continue with in the forthcoming years.