Our Senior Team

Emma McCarthy Proprietor

I have a BEd and have worked within education since 1988—initially as a primary school teacher in several East London schools and then becoming Head teacher in a large inner city primary school.

I am a qualified Early Years Professional. I have held many roles and responsibilities including safeguarding and special educational needs.

I now work across all three nurseries developing our vision and ethos, supporting the managers in their roles and focussing on achieving the very best outcomes for all the children.

When not working in the nurseries I enjoy reading, cooking and spending time with my family and many pets.

Andrew McCarthy Proprietor

After 20-odd years working in IT in the City of London I was ready for a fresh challenge!

Once Emma and I had decided to own & manage a children’s nursery I immediately signed up for a Level III Childcare course on which I became a curiosity to the other students being the only middle-aged man! I have not looked back – Early Years is interesting, fun, challenging and very rewarding.

My role across our nurseries is to run the business side of things and to look after building maintenance and health and safety.

When not working I enjoy trips to Stamford Bridge and walking my 2 Finnish Lapphunds in the glorious countryside.

Sophie Macaulay - Golden Valley House Day Nursery

Sophie Macaulay Nursery Group Area Manager

I have a level 3 qualification in childcare and have worked in childcare and education since 2009. I have developed a wide range of skills whilst working in a range of childcare settings.

As a teenager I realised I thrived when I was able to help and support people. Through babysitting I developed a passion for working with younger children which then led me into a career in Early Years. I gained a level 2 qualification in Team Leading and Management which I use to support my team. I am also interested in safeguarding and supporting children and families through difficult periods.

I joined Golden Valley Nurseries in 2018 as a manager in the Weston branch before being promoted to Area Manager.

In September 2019 my daughter Evelyn was born. When I’m not working I spend most of my time with my daughter and husband. We enjoy walks with our dog, Luna and also travelling and exploring cities around Europe.

Kim Thomas Nursery Group Admin Manager

I have worked with the Golden Valley team since my student placement in 2009, having some time away in 2015 to spend time with my 1st son and returning in 2017.

I hold a BTEC Level 3 in early years and a Foundation Degree in Early years.

After my 2nd son was born I decided to have a change in my career and came back as part of the admin team, which I love, as I am still involved with the children and their family but face new challenges.

In my spare time I enjoy being involved with my project house, spending time outdoors with my family on the family farm and taking my dog Molly on long walks.

Kim Thomas - Golden Valley House Day Nursery

Sam Goodman Nursery Group Admin Manager

I have worked in the Early Years sector since 2007 and began my journey as a Nursery Practitioner. Shortly afterwards I progressed my career and became a Room leader and Deputy Manager. In 2015 after gaining a BA Honours degree in Early Years I joined the Golden Valley Group where I have experienced various roles such as Graduate leader, the nursery INNCO and Nursery Manager.

In 2017 I decided to take on a new challenge and I became the nursery Admin Manager. My role is to oversee all administrative duties while supporting the nursery managers; this includes finance, funding, improvements and invoicing. I can be seen working across the nursery group.

In my spare time I enjoy being with my family, seeing friends and taking my English Springer spaniel on country walks.

Sharon O’Connor Nursery Manager, Knowle (Busy Bee)

I have worked in childcare since 1988 initially gaining my N.N.E.B qualification. I started working at Busy Bee, as a young nursery nurse continuing for 8 years.

I spent the next 6 years in both social services and education, re-joining Busy Bee in 2002 where I have been ever since.

I updated my qualification in 2013 gaining a BA hons degree in early year’s education.

Following the change over from Busy Bee to Golden Valley I started my new role as nursery manager in Sept 2018.

When not working, I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family and friends.