Our staff are level 3 qualified in early years childcare development and are highly skilled in supporting children with a wide range of additional needs, including complex medical and physical needs. We use a Somerset total communication approach which includes signing and the use of photos and provide a stimulating environment, planning for each child’s individual needs in accordance with the Early Years Foundation Stage. We are lucky enough to have recruited two new apprentices in September 2023 and we have a dedicated team of playroom volunteers.
Helen Charles
Manager and Student Mentor
Julie Farmer-Labbe
Deputy Manager and Lunch Club Leader
Hayley Hooper
Play Leader and Lunch Club
Rebecca Raison
Play Leader
Mary Allen
Play Leader
Sophie Stoneman
Apprentice
Kim North
Bank Staff
Mia Thomas
Apprentice
Check out an interior view of TOG here!
Bank Staff
We have one bank staff at present. They need to be level three trained in Early years and called on as and when needed, please see TOG reception or phone TOG if you would like more information.
Volunteers
We have some lovely ladies who give up their time to volunteer to come and help out and play with the children. For more information on who volunteers at TOG please get in touch or see our reception board.
Students
We also have students on placements with us throughout the year. All our students have their suitability verified by their College or School and are supervised during their placement by Helen Charles.
Our Trustees
TOG is a registered charity and as such is governed by a board of trustees, who meet once every half term. TOG’s trustees welcome parent representatives to join the committee to help drive forward the services that TOG provides. The trustees hold an annual general meeting (AGM) once a year in July and all parents/carers are invited to attend. If you are interested in joining the committee, please speak with Helen or contact our Chair of Trustees Holly on chair@tauntonopportunitygroup.org.uk.
TOG committee (March 2024):
Holly Burchett – Chair
Jena Whittet-Evans – Vice Chair
Gavin Brown – Treasurer
Alison Brown – Secretary
Jennifer Bird – Committee
Mo Hodges – Committee
Susan Sian – Committee
Heidi Brand – Committee
Nina Engley – Committee