Founded by Rachael, the Mulberry Bush was born out of a parent’s quest for the perfect care. Determined to create a loving yet resourceful haven, Rachael envisioned a nurturing environment where children could thrive. With the support of a dedicated team, she made a safe, homely space where every child can blossom and shine.
The first thing visitors notice about the Mulberry Bush Nurseries is the beautiful, light, modern environments of the three settings. Oliver is dedicated to creating these wonderful spaces, each with its own distinct character. Oliver provides the essential structure that supports exceptional care both physically and by running the financials of the business.
Meet Somer, a dedicated professional with a passion for nurturing young minds. Somer’s passion and dedication have driven her remarkable journey from winning the title of nursery apprentice of the year at just 15 to her current role as Executive Director at the Mulberry Bush Nurseries. With a focus on excellence, she has shaped nurturing environments and upheld quality standards across the organisation.
Kim, our Head of HR and Administration, joined The Mulberry Bush in 2024, inspired by our vision of nurturing children and families from the very beginning. A qualified HR Manager with a wealth of administrative experience — and a proud mum of four boys — Kim leads all HR matters across the group, as well as our wonderful admin teams at each nursery. She plays a key role in making sure every family receives outstanding care and support from their very first interaction with us, right through their journey at The Mulberry Bush.
Donna began her early years journey after leaving the Royal Navy in 2012, completing her Level 3 through a work-based apprenticeship and later gaining a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Development. She has worked across all age groups, holding both room leader and management roles, before becoming a childcare tutor supporting apprentices into the sector. Passionate about helping children and practitioners thrive, Donna now supports staff development across The Mulberry Bush, ensuring high-quality care and learning for every child.
Chloe’s journey at the Mulberry Bush Bitterne Park began in 2018. She swiftly rose from Raspberries Room Leader to Deputy Setting Manager in 2019. Her extensive experience in childcare and nursery management gave her the ideal base for her current HR and Finance Assistant role for the group. Chloe is passionate about child development and supports all the Mulberry Bush settings and teams.
Beginning her childcare journey in 2018, Sophie holds a BA Honours in Early Childhood Studies alongside a Level 3 childcare qualification. At the Mulberry Bush, she started as a nursery practitioner, progressing to roles such as Deputy Room Leader and Nursery SENCO. Now, as Area SENCO, she ensures inclusivity and support for all children across all settings.
Hannah loves working in early years because no two days are ever the same. She enjoys watching children develop their individual personalities while supporting families. With 20 years of experience in early years, Hannah has progressed from practitioner to setting manager. She has also worked as a childcare tutor, helping apprentices gain the skills to advance their careers in childcare. Having a young family of her own, Hannah understands the challenges facing the families she supports, providing her with valuable perspective and insight.
Vikki joined The Mulberry Bush as part of the founding team at our first nursery in Locks Heath. From 2013 to 2025, she led the preschool room, laying strong foundations for hundreds of children as they prepared for school. Well known by local teachers, Vikki has a true passion for supporting confident transitions and helping each child thrive in their next step. Now as Deputy Manager, she brings a wealth of experience to the whole nursery, offering thoughtful support to children, families, and staff alike.
From that very first enquiry to the day a child confidently takes their next step, Samantha supports families throughout every stage of their Mulberry Bush journey. As a parent of two, she understands just how important a caring, nurturing environment is — not only for children, but for their families too. It’s this shared value that drew her to The Mulberry Bush, where creating a warm, supportive space for every child is at the heart of everything.
Shelley started cooking as soon as she finished school. Her love of children led her to early years catering in 2012 and she never looked back! She is passionate about brining the experience of cooking to young children as well as supporting their development by providing them with tasty and nutritious meals. Shelley says that “the Mulberry Bush family ethos and is really special for both children and the staff team and why I love coming to work!”
