Our Team

We are incredibly proud of our team. From our experienced room leaders to the new faces who bring fresh ideas and energy, our staff are dedicated to supporting each child’s individual needs. The longevity of our staff is a testament to the positive work environment we foster, and we’re excited to see long-time staff members now welcoming the children of previous generations!

Meet The Staff

First Steps Creche & Preschool, Waterford

Management Team

Doireann

Manager

Level 8 in Childcare
Team member since 2020

Doireann

Manager

Hi, I’m Doireann, and I’ve been the manager of First Steps Créche & Preschool since 2020. I have over 15 years’ experience in the childcare sector and have worked in a variety of settings before joining the wonderful team here.

I’m passionate about watching children grow and develop as they progress through the crèche, and I really value the relationships we build with families along the way. Supporting parents and creating a warm, nurturing environment for every child is at the heart of what I do.

Outside of work, I’m a proud mum of one and can often be found on the sidelines cheering him on at his GAA and soccer matches. When I’m not chauffeuring him around, I enjoy relaxing with a good book or listening to music.

Natasha

Assistant Manager

Level 8 in Childcare
Team member since 2020

Natasha

Assistant Manager

Hi, I’m Natasha and I am the Assistant Manager here at First Steps Créche & Preschool. I joined the team in 2017 as a room leader and got promoted in 2023 to assistant manager. I am also the inclusion co-ordinator and enjoy working closely with families and staff to promote an inclusive environment.

Outside of work I enjoy travelling and experiencing different cultures worldwide. I also love dancing and outdoor activities. My approach to both my profession and personal interests reflects my holistic view of life.

Lisa

Administrator

Team member since 2001

Lisa

Administrator

Hi, I’m Lisa and I have been part of the First Steps family for over 20 years and know the place inside out! As Administrator, I help keep everything running smoothly and I am always there to lend a hand to parents and staff. My two children started here as babies, so First Steps has always felt like a second home.

Outside of work, I love travelling, reading a good book, and heading out for walks with my dog.

Tasha

Administrator

Team member since 2000

Tasha

Administrator

Hi, I’m Tasha and I have been here at First Steps since the start – over 25 years now! I love watching the children progress through the building and now seeing them as adults bring their own children back. I a m a proud mum of 3 boys, all of whom attending First Steps Creche and Preschool and have fond memories of their time here. In my spare time I love swimming and walking on the beach to relax. My favourite food is Tacos.

Orla

Supervisor

Level 8 in Childcare
Team member since 2025

Orla

Supervisor

Hi, I’m Orla, and I joined the First Steps Creche family as a Supervisor in 2025. From a young age, I’ve had a natural passion for helping and understanding children—it’s always felt like something I was meant to do. That passion inspired me to pursue a career in early years, where I get to support children’s development and emotional wellbeing during such an important stage of life. I believe everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and understood, and I do my best to support them. I am empathetic and child-centred in my approach, supporting children as they express themselves through play and exploration, and building trusting relationships along the way. In my spare time, you’ll find me spending time in nature, staying active (I’m always on the go!), or getting lost in a good book.

Baby Room

Clayr

Room Leader

Level 8 in Childcare
Team member since 2014

Clayr

Room Leader

Hi, I'm Clayr. I've been part of the First Steps Créche & Preschool since 2013. First steps creche really feels like a family to me. My current role is as a room leader. I'm passionate about making the children I work withs time in creche fun and memorable. Sensory play is a big part of my approach to learning, not only does it provide an enjoyable experience, but it has such an importance on early childhood development. I am a very imaginative person, and I enjoy doing lots of artistic things like drawing and making different creations. I bring this love into the creche by taking on different projects and building things for activities.

Caroline

Early Years Practitioner (CE)

Level 5 in Childcare
Team member since 2023

Caroline

Early Years Practitioner (CE)

Hi, I’m Caroline and I have been part of the First Steps team since 2024. I am currently working towards my level 5 in Childcare and Education and will be finished really soon. I love interacting with the children every day and watching them meet their milestones. I’m known in the building for reading a good book or two and being able to hold the children’s attention. I love reading in my personal time also and going for walks with my dog. I love sending times with friends and family also.

Hazel

Early Years Practitioner

Level 5 in Childcare
Team member since 2002

Hazel

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Hazel and I have been a Childcare Educator at First Steps Créche & Preschool since 2002. I have seen so many children coming through the doors over the years. I am a proud Mother of three, who have all attended First Steps Créche & Preschool. I am known as Mama Hazel throughout the creche as I like to offer a home from home experience to the children. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my son. We also have a family dog called Alfie who keeps us busy.

Tracey

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2018

Tracey

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I'm Tracey. I have been a part of the First Steps Creche family since 2018 where I have built strong connections with the children and families I work with. I bring a warm and caring approach to my work with a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for supporting children's development. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family, especially my nieces and nephews. I also like going to the gym after work. My passion for both my work and my personal interest shine through in everything I do.

Wobbler Room

Amy

Room Leader

Level 8 in Childcare
Team member since 2023

Amy

Room Leader

Hi, I’m Amy and I am the room leader of the Wobbler room. I am a mam of two and my daughter also attends First Steps Crèche & Preschool. In my free time I enjoy being creative and love to draw and paint and love all things spooky and Halloween. I love offering children lots of opportunities for messy and sensory play. I have a passion for nurturing children’s development and love to create an inclusive and welcoming environment with a child first approach.

April

Early Years Practitioner (CE)

Level 5 in Childcare
Team member since 2022

April

Early Years Practitioner (CE)

Hi, I’m April and I have been a part of First Steps Crèche & Preschool since 2022. I am very passionate about nurturing children's development and especially enjoy forming bonds and relationships with the children and their parents. I love engaging with the children through creative and interactive play such as painting, water play and circle time. My favourite topic to explore in circle time is emotions. It's always a great hit with the children and I find it amazing to witness their ability to express themselves and let their personalities shine through. My son also attends the crèche and it is a great comfort to me having him close during these special years and knowing he is well taken care off.

Cela

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2021

Cela

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Cela has been part of the First Steps family since 2021 and since then have gained lots of experience working with children. I just recently completed my level 6 qualification. I attended First Steps Créche & Preschool as a child and have lots of fond memories of both the staff and the crèche.

My favourite celebration in the creche is Christmas and I love being able to do lots of festive activities. I love to go on holidays and go on adventures with my dogs in my spare time.

My focus in work is to create a special bond with children and their families creating a safe environment for all children using a safe and calm approach.

Sandra

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2023

Sandra

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I'm Sandra. I have worked in the childcare sector since 2011 and have been part of First Steps Crèche & Preschool since February 2023. With a nurturing and attentive approach, I understand the importance of creating an inclusive environment where every child feels safe, supported and valued. I am passionate about outdoor play, recognising its role in promoting physical development, confidence and meaningful learning through exploration. I like to read in my spare time.

Toddler Room

Marie

Room Leader

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2002

Marie

Room Leader

Hi, I'm Marie and I am a childcare practitioner at First Steps Creche & Preschool, having joined the team in 2002. With 23 years of experience in the childcare sector, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role and I have a deep passion for supporting children's development. My dedication to fostering a nurturing, child centred learning environment is evident in everything that I do.

Aoife

Early Years Practitioner

Level 8 in Childcare
Team member since 2024

Aoife

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Aoife and I’ve been a childcare practitioner here at First Steps Crèche & Preschool since September 2024. I make sure to bring a patient attitude to all the children, providing both support and kindness. I enjoy building strong connections with each of the families I meet during the day. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my two pups, Sheamus and Fergus. I spend as much time outdoors as I can with the pups. My passion for the outdoors shapes my approach to both my work and home life which I feel shines through in my everyday practice here at first steps creche.

Ewelina

Early Years Practitioner

Level 5 in Childcare
Team member since 2022

Ewelina

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Ewelina and I joined the First Steps Créche & Preschool team in 2022. With a passion for nurturing and supporting children’s growth, I always strive to bring warmth to my role. I enjoy observing how children learn, grow and interact with the world around them. I ensure to take on a thoughtful, individual approach that supports each child's unique personality and needs. In my spare time I love running and walking and enjoy reading.

Nataliya

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2018

Nataliya

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Nataliya and I joined the First Steps family in 2018. While working here I upskilled and completed my Level 6 qualification in Early Childhood care and education, and I now have over 7 years’ experience in the childcare sector.

I am a reliable and positive professional. I am dedicated to nurturing the holistic development of children within the setting and have a passion for STEAM based curriculum. I really love all types of animals.

Junior Preschool

Barbara

Early Years Practitioner (CE)

Level 5 in Childcare
Team member since 2023

Barbara

Early Years Practitioner (CE)

Hi, I’m Barbara and I joined the First Steps team in 2023. I am a mother of three children and my experience and patience have helped me to bring a lot of warmth and creativity to my work in the crèche. I love preparing all the activities for the children and watching them grow in confidence.

Debbie

Early Years Practitioner

Level 5 in Childcare
Team member since 2021

Debbie

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I'm Debbie and I've been part of the First Steps team since 2021. From a young age I have always had a passion for working with children as I feel I have a nourishing, caring nature.

I am a mother of three who enjoys spending time with family and staying active in my free time. I am hoping to upskill my career in the near future and continue to grow as a professional.

Jessica

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2021

Jessica

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Jessica and I joined the First Steps family in 2021. I recently upskilled and completed my level 6 in Childcare and Education. I love working with the children and nurturing their growth and development.

Julie

Early Years Practitioner

Level 5 in Childcare
Team member since 2002

Julie

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Julie and I have been part of the First Steps family for over 20 years. I am a Mam with two boys who I adore and 5 grandkids. I am very passionate about Lámh and it was for my grandchildren I first learned Lámh for. Now I teach Lámh in First Steps Créche and Preschool from Baby room to Senior Preschool and I also teach parent Lámh classes. I am really keen about fitness and I train for CrossFit multiple times a week.

Senior Preschool

Charlotte

Room Leader

Level 8 in Childcare
Team member since 2006

Charlotte

Room Leader

Hi, I’m Charlotte and I am passionate about my job. I’ve been working as a Childcare Practitioner since 2002 and part of the First Créche team since 2006. After becoming a room leader I pursued my Level 8 qualification in Early Childhood Education. I love to bring best out in my team and the children I work with. I enjoy mindfulness and meditation in my personal life and enjoy bringing it into the classroom each day. I enjoy fostering a nurturing environment for children to shine and be the best they can be.

Gillian

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2017

Gillian

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Gillian and I have been part of First Steps Creche & Preschool since 2017 working as a childcare practitioner. I am a proud mother of two. I always make sure to bring a warm and caring approach to my work and I am committed to creating a nurturing and supportive environment. I have a love for creativity and music and enjoy seeing this come to life In the crèche.

Karen

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2000

Karen

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Karen and I have been working at First Steps Creche & Preschool since the very start in 2000. During this time I have seen many children come through our doors including y own three! I have built strong relationships with children and their families and look forward to creating even more, as I understand the importance of building good relationships. My calm and caring nature shines through in everything I do.

Lena

Early Years Practitioner

Level 8 in Childcare
Team member since 2021

Lena

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Lena and I have been a dedicated Childcare Practitioner at First Steps Creche & Preschool since 2021, where I have built strong relationships with both children and parents alike. For me it is really important to foster a nurturing environment for the children where they feel safe and understood and I ensure that this shines through every day. I enjoy traveling the world and experiencing new cultures and enjoy sharing these experiences in my classroom. My passion for childcare motivates me to learn and grow each day.

Pearl

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2000

Pearl

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Pearl and I have been a dedicated childcare practitioner since 1998. I'm a proud mother of three, two whom have attended First Steps Creche & Preschool. In my spare time I enjoy socialising with friends and colleagues. I enjoy watching the children grow and reaching their milestones and like forming great loving relationships with children and the families I work with. What I have learned from raising my three children I bring into the classroom each day.

Rebecca

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2025

Rebecca

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I am Rebecca, and I have worked in childcare since 2014 and joined the First Steps team in January 2025. I'm a animal lover with four cats and two dogs - my dogs names are Lola and Buddy. I love being involved with children's growing and learning and watching them succeed reaching each milestone. I'm a music fan and enjoy bringing this into the classroom each day.

Floating Staff

Nicola

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2015

Nicola

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Nicola and I am here in First Steps for over 10 years. First Steps is a huge part pf my life and I have made great friends since joining the team. I love working with the children and seeing their confidence grow as they interact with each other.

Sharon

Early Years Practitioner

Level 6 in Childcare
Team member since 2002

Sharon

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Sharon and I joined the First Steps team in 2002. I am a dedicated, agentic childcare educator who has just completed my Level 6 in Childhood Care and Education. I have over 22 years of experience in the childcare sector, demonstrating my commitment to providing excellent care to every child that I encounter.

Susan

Early Years Practitioner

Level 5 in Childcare
Team member since 2025

Susan

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I'm Susan and I started working in first steps creche this year 2025. I love engaging with the children while we sing songs and do floor play. I love to see the children using their imagination and exploring new types of play. In my spare time I like to do outdoor activities with my two children.

Tamzin

Early Years Practitioner

Level 8 in Childcare
Team member since 2024

Tamzin

Early Years Practitioner

Hi, I’m Tamzin and I have been a Childcare Practitioner at First Steps Creche & Preschool since 2024.

Kitchen & Caretakers

Debbie

Chef

Team member since 2022

Debbie

Chef

Hi, I am Debbie, and I am the chef in First Steps Creche and Preschool since 2022. I have over 10 years’ experience in the food industry. I am passionate about providing health food to children. I love seeing children try new foods and watching them thrive with new food groups. I work closely with families and staff to support any dietary requirements children may have. I am a proud mum of 3 and my youngest attends First Steps. In my spare tine I like to sleep!

Anabela

Assistant Chef (CE)

Team member since 2022

Anabela

Assistant Chef (CE)

Hi, I am Anabela and I am the assistant chef. I love working with food and learning new recipes. I have learned so much about food since joining the team. I make a mean scone and they always go down a treat with the children and staff!

Dave

Caretaker

Team member since 2016

Dave

Caretaker

Hi, I’m Dave and I am a caretaker in First Steps since 2016. I am always on hand for whatever might pop up each week. I am the first in in the morning and the last out in the evening making sure all is in order for the children and staff. In my spare time I like to fish.

Noel

Caretaker (CE)

Team member since 2016

Noel

Caretaker (CE)

Hi, I’m Noel and I am a caretaker here at First Steps Creche and Preschool. I joined the team in 2019. I am always on hand for any cleaning and maintenance needs that pop up. You will often find me with a paintbrush in my hand. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my two dogs.

Our Team

Management Team

Baby Room

Wobbler Room

Toddler Room

Junior Preschool

Senior Preschool

Floating Staff

Kitchen & Caretakers

First Steps Creche & Preschool, Waterford Childcare

Every Step Matters, Start Your Child’s Here