Meet the Team
Owner
Maureen Ackroyd founded Toad Hall Nursery in January 1995, driven by her passion for working with children and inspired by the demand for high-quality childcare in the Wokingham area. She is married with three children: Catherine, David, and Rachel.
When the opportunity arose in 1994 to start her own business, Maureen carefully explored the possibility of opening a nursery. She successfully acquired the property and obtained planning permission, and in January 1995, Toad Hall Nursery officially opened its doors — named after the toads that inhabit the site.
Since then, the nursery has grown and expanded over the years to meet the needs of local families. Today, Toad Hall Nursery is proudly registered for 122 children, continuing Maureen’s vision of providing a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment where every child can thrive.
Nursery Manager and Director
Catherine joined Toad Hall in September 1998 as a Nursery Nurse, bringing with her experience as a nanny after completing her NNEB in 1996. Her dedication and skill quickly saw her take on leadership roles, becoming Supervisor of the Nursery Unit in 2001, where she was responsible for a team of seven staff and 24 babies.
In September 2006, Catherine became Deputy Manager, during which time she completed her NVQ Level 4 in Childcare, Learning and Development and undertook safer recruitment training. In February 2013, she proudly stepped into the role of Nursery Manager and later completed her Level 5 Diploma in Leadership.
Since welcoming her youngest child in 2015, Catherine has taken on the role of Staff Director and, in 2023, became the Nominated Person for the nursery. She also continues to support Sarah as Deputy Safeguarding Lead.
Catherine is married with three children — Sophie, Olivia, and Grace. Olivia now works alongside her here at Toad Hall, while Grace continues with her education. Catherine brings both her professional expertise and her experience as a parent into her role. She is passionate about supporting the team, ensuring high standards of care, and creating a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive.
Nursery Manager & Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Sarah joined Toad Hall in March 2002 after moving from Wales, beginning her journey with us as a Nursery Nurse in the Nursery Unit. Her dedication and passion for early years education soon led her into leadership, becoming Nursery Unit Leader in 2004 and later taking on the vital responsibility of Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Over the years, Sarah has continued to grow professionally, achieving an NVQ Level 4 in Childcare, Learning and Development, followed by a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership in 2016. In September 2017, she proudly became our Nursery Manager.
Sarah is married and has two daughters. Sophie now works alongside her here at Toad Hall, while Katie attends a local school. Sarah brings both her professional expertise and her experience as a parent into her role, offering families a warm, supportive, and reassuring presence. She is passionate about creating a safe, caring environment where every child feels valued and has the opportunity to thrive.
Lead Language Practitioner (LLP), SENCo and Nursery Unit Leader
Claire joined Toad Hall in March 2022 and has quickly become a valued member of our team. She is a parent to two children, both of whom attend local schools.
When Claire first joined, she provided dedicated 1:1 support for a child with additional needs. In September 2022, she joined the Nursery Unit team as that child moved on to school. By January 2023, Claire stepped into the role of Nursery Unit Leader and began working alongside Hannah as a SENCO, supporting children with additional needs and preparing for Hannah’s maternity leave.
Claire is known for her nurturing approach and commitment to supporting every child’s individual development, ensuring they feel safe, included, and valued.
Assistant Deputy Manager & Pre-school Unit Leader
Hannah has been part of Toad Hall since January 2009, when she first joined as a Student Nursery Nurse. Since then, she has completed her qualifications up to a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and gained a wealth of experience across all areas of the nursery.
Over the years, Hannah has taken on a number of leadership roles and is now based in our Preschool building, where she works closely with the children to support their learning and development as they prepare for school. She also plays an important role in supporting Catherine and Sarah with safeguarding, helping to ensure that every child feels safe, secure, and happy.
Families know Hannah for her warm, approachable nature and her commitment to giving every child the best possible start. Her passion for early years education shines through in everything she does, making her a valued and trusted member of our team.
Nursery Unit Leader & Deputy Manager
Sarah Haynes joined Toad Hall in May 2008 as a Student Nursery Nurse and quickly progressed, completing her NVQ Level 3 in Childcare, Learning and Development in January 2009. She has gained experience across all age groups within the nursery and has a deep understanding of children’s individual needs.
In the summer of 2015, Sarah became a permanent member of the Baby Unit team, taking on the role of Unit Leader to cover maternity leave. When the previous Unit Leader did not return, Sarah continued in this role, providing consistent care and leadership.
In March 2023, Sarah moved to the Nursery Unit and now works alongside Claire, running the unit and supporting the children’s learning and development. Sarah is known for her nurturing approach, dedication, and ability to create a safe, welcoming environment where every child can flourish.
Sarah Haynes
Baby Unit Leader, Health & Safety Officer & Assistant Deputy manager
Kerry joined Toad Hall in September 2016 as a qualified Nursery Nurse, bringing with her experience as a private nanny for a local family. She has worked across all areas of the nursery, gaining valuable experience with children of all ages.
In 2022, Kerry took on the role of Assistant Leader in the Baby Unit, providing hands-on support and guidance to both children and staff. In September 2023, she was promoted to Assistant Deputy Manager, while continuing her role as Health & Safety Officer. Kerry holds an NVQ Level 3 in Childcare and is dedicated to ensuring the nursery remains a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment for all.
Kerry is known for her caring, approachable nature and her commitment to providing high-quality care, making every child feel secure, happy, and valued.
Kerry Hussey
