
Rachael Thomson Director
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.

Oliver Thomson Director
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.

Somer Miles Executive Director
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 BourneHR Manager
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 Hopper General Manager and Training Lead
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 Jones HR and Finance Assistant
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.

Sophie Ivemey Area SENCO
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.

Georgia GrahamWatelooville Manager
Georgia joined The Mulberry Bush Waterlooville in 2026, bringing with her many years of experience working with children and families. She began her career at 16 as a key person and has since progressed into management roles across Early Years settings. Alongside her nursery experience, Georgia also holds a PGCE in Primary Education and has taught Reception and Year 1. Georgia believes children thrive when learning is tailored to their interests and supported by caring, engaged adults.

Callie ThompsonWatelooville Deputy Manager
Callie began her childcare journey in 2017, completing her Level 3. She joined The Mulberry Bush in July 2020, progressing from Pre-school to the Baby Room, where she became Deputy Room Leader, later leading the Raspberry Room before stepping into the Deputy Manager role.
Callie holds a Level 3 qualification and a Foundation Degree in Early Years and is soon to complete her BA (Hons).

Paige Orsmond Waterlooville Admin Assistant
Paige joined the Mulberry Bush Waterlooville in 2022 as an administrative assistant. She chose the Mulberry Bush after coming for a show round of the nursery; “I fell in love with the nursery and knew it was somewhere I wanted to work and knew my son would thrive in such a lovely setting. TMB is a great place to work. I love how the staff have such great relationships with the children.”

Lehanne Richardson Waterlooville Chef
Lehann started cooking professionally in schools in 2003 joining TMB in 2020. Lehann loves the opportunity that cooking for a the Mulberry Bush nursery gives her to introduce children to all sorts of cuisines and flavours with our varied menus.
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