Alison Jackson

Co-Head of Nursery

I started working at ‘The Ark’ last year, having spent several years as a teacher at Liphook Infant School and have so enjoyed seeing it grow and develop.  It is a privilege to work at this new pre-school in Liphook and to be part of my church’s vision and initiative for the area.  Now as Co-Head, I can continue to contribute to developing the very best early years practice alongside a very experienced staff, supportive and friendly families and wonderful children who have such an enthusiasm for learning.  My passion for teaching often extends to my travels: recently I went to India with my church and worked in an orphanage with children 5-12 years old. This was an amazing experience!

I have lived and worked locally for many years and have had 3 children who have all grown up attending the local schools.  I am a keen swimmer and enjoy walking and yoga.  I also love musical theatre!

Ruth Grove

Co-Head of Nursery

I trained as a teacher at Canterbury Christ Church university, and have taught in two local primary schools over the last fifteen years.  I have also been senior manager in these schools for the past eight years, providing leadership and support to my team.  My husband and I have lived in Liphook for twelve years and our two boys attend Liphook Infant School.  As a family, we go to Three Counties church in Hammer, where I am part of the Totzone team which serves children aged 0-4 years.  We also love spending time together swimming, baking and playing in the great outdoors! It’s such a privilege to work at ‘The Ark’ and see the littlest people of Liphook grow and develop.  I have an amazing team of staff and wonderful families who I get to work alongside every day in a unique partnership.

Lisa Wood

Nursery Assistant

Having spent 18 years teaching PE within secondary schools, I’ve now swapped teenagers for pre-schoolers to join the team at The Ark Pre-school.  I have loved working with this age-group – with their endless energy and cheeky smiles, there’s certainly no such thing as a dull day!  We have packed so much in this year, but I have especially enjoyed our Royal Wedding party and heading off for walks with the children.

When not at ‘The Ark’ I can generally be found on the side of various sports pitches and chasing around Hampshire after my 4 very busy boys!

Penny Forbes

Nursery Assistant

For the last 10 years I have had a developing interest in early years education.  I now have a Level 3 diploma in Childcare, Learning and Development, and have worked in nurseries and schools both locally and internationally.

I am passionate about supporting children to enjoy their time at nursery and to achieve their potential.  I believe that each child develops at their own pace.  Within a structured learning through play environment, I enjoy setting targets for each individual child and watching their sense of accomplishment when they achieve them.

I was born and raised locally and enjoy a busy family life with my husband and two daughters.  As well as enjoying the beautiful countryside around us, I have a passion for music and art. I also attempt to keep myself fit through attending the gym, walking and the occasional netball game!

Emma Bray

Nursery Assistant

I am a local mum of 3 children (2 boys and 1 girl) and we have lived in Liphook since 2013.  We really love living in the village… all except the rush hour traffic!  I love to bake and decorate cakes and spend time with family and friends.  Any time I can get stuck into a book is a real bonus!

I have worked within the care industry in some capacity for the last 15 years , mainly with folks with learning or physical disabilities, supporting them at home or in the community to live as independently as possible.  I absolutely believe in the person centred approach.  With the best support, anyone can flourish and achieve their potential.  Although this is my first position in a nursery , I think the same principle applies.  I have recently completed training in Early Talk Boost and it has been so rewarding seeing it in action and working with the children.

I am so proud to be part of ‘The Ark’ team and love watching the children grow in confidence and have so much fun while learning.  I am very excited to meet the other children who will walk through our doors in the future!

Julia Mason

Nursery Assistant

I have worked at ‘The Ark’ since it opened in September 2017.  I previously worked at another nursery for 4 years, where I qualified for my NVQ level 3 in Childcare.  I have recently attended a course in Early Talk Boost which is great to put into action with children at The Ark.  Having lived in the village all my life, my teenage sons attend our local school.  My husband and I enjoy a busy family life, eating out and walks in the local countryside.

It is a privilege to be part of the team at ‘The Ark’, and to watch the children develop towards their next steps!

Cleone Inglis-Jones

Nursery Assistant

Having been headteacher of a London pre-school in my twenties, it was a real joy to be given the opportunity to re-engage with preschool work again here at The Ark.  I am loving being part of a close-knit group of teachers, headed by the amazing team of Ruth Grove and Alison Jackson, as well as teaching the gorgeous children who come into the Ark every morning.  My training is Montessori.  However, I am able to use the skills I learnt there with current teaching methods to give the children the best start possible before they go onto Reception at their chosen schools.  I am enjoying further training with Hampshire County Council on the promotion of positive behaviour.  

I most love spending time with my three children, husband and two dogs.  Together we love walking, gardening and theatre.