The original Children Centres were closed in March 2017 due to cuts in funding. After many discussions, the Head of Chalgrove School along with other members of the local community, decided to apply to reinstate the Chalgrove and Watlington centres. The First Steps family Hubs were launched in March 2017 in order to continue to provide essential support to families with young children in the communities. 

Maria Berrell - Family Hub Coordinator

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Maria volunteered as Playworker at the Stokenchurch childrens centre when her children were little and also as an administrator for Children's Play Therapists across different centres. She has an NVQ in  Business Administration, a Psychology Diploma, an NLP Diploma, a Mindfulness Diploma, a Five to Thrive qualification and has completed a CBT and OPA playworker course. She is also now a HENRY facilitator. Maria enjoys working at the hub because she enjoys working with young  children and providing valuable support to families.

Kathy Gibson - Family Hub Playworker

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Kathy volunteered with the Childrens Centre and then continued with us when we became First Steps Family Hub. She enjoys working with young children and providing support to families. She went onto become a Teaching Assistant at Chalgrove Primary School whilst volunteering and has now become a member of staff at the Hub. She has a degree and loves spending time with her two children.  

Anna Harries - Family Hub coordinator

Anna holds a Level 3 Play work diploma, a Montessori Teaching diploma and an Educational Studies diploma. Anna has previously worked as a Teaching Assistant, a Crèche Manager and a Nursery Office Manager. She currently work as a Nursery Administrator and runs holidays sessions in the Family Hub. In her spare time she looks after her two boys and Springer spaniel! 

Linda Simmie - Family Hub Playworker

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Linda volunteered with the Hub and is now a member of staff and Trustee. She enjoys working with young children and supporting families and has over 30 years experience as an Early Years teacher at Stokenchurch Primary School.