Meet the Team!
Meet our dedicated Holywell Childcare team.
Managing Director
Debra Ratcliffe
Debra founded Holywell Childcare in 2003 with the support of her husband, David, and her late father, Noel Massey. With a background in residential and nursing care, she built Holywell Childcare on the foundation of family values, exceptional service, and a passion for nurturing young minds. As a mother and grandmother, she understands the importance of creating a safe, loving environment where children can thrive. Leading Holywell Childcare has been one of her greatest achievements, made even more special by the dedicated team she considers family.
Director and company secretary
David Ratcliffe
Hi, I'm David, Debra's husband. of over 20 years. as well as supporting my wife, i also work full time for BMW Chester. I am a keen cyclist, and also a Chelsea supporter. I am vert proud of what my wife has achieved over the past 21 years.
Company Director
Emma Heggie
Hi, I'm Emma, Debra's Daughter. I have a Strong family connection with Holywell Childcare, as during my teenage years i grew up working at the nursery. Firstly in the kitchen, and then with the children. While taking my a levels i also studied towards my level 3. in childcare which allowed me in the pre school unit. The nursery then supported me to gain my assessors award which i am using now. in my career at Coleg Cambria.
I am proud that my two girls have attended Holywell childcare throughout their formative years. they have gone on to be confident and thriving at school.
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Manager
Kayleigh Davies
Hi, I’m Kayleigh! My journey with Holywell Childcare began in 2011 as an eager apprentice, and today, I’m proud to serve as the Assistant Manager and Toddler Room Leader. Over the years, I’ve achieved my Level 3 qualification and completed a variety of courses, including First Aid, Food Hygiene, Schemas, and more—because I believe there’s always something new to learn when it comes to providing the best care for children.
As a mum to my little Luna, who also attends Holywell Childcare, I truly understand the trust parents place in us. It’s a joy to combine my professional skills with a personal passion for creating a nurturing, fun, and safe environment for every child.
Lead Deputy
Kim Nichols
Hi, I’m Kim! I’ve been part of the Holywell Childcare family for an incredible 17 years, and I’m proud to be the Preschool Supervisor and Lead Deputy.
Creativity is at the heart of everything I do—I have a passion for drawing, painting, and bringing imaginative activities to life for the children. Watching their faces light up as they explore, learn, and create is the most rewarding part of my day.
With years of experience and a love for all things artistic, I’m dedicated to making our preschool a vibrant and inspiring place for every child to thrive!
Nursery Nurse
Jade
Hi, I’m Jade! I’ve been part of the Holywell Childcare family for 11 and a half years, starting as an apprentice and working my way up to Baby Room Leader alongside Sarah. I’m Level 3 qualified and love creating a warm, nurturing space where our youngest children can grow and thrive. You’ll also find me helping out in the toddler room or stepping in as a relief cook when needed.
At home, I’m a proud mum to my two amazing boys, Marley and Morgan, who both grew up at the nursery and are now thriving in school. When I’m not at work, I love spending time with family and friends, taking my boys on adventures to play areas, or heading off on exciting holidays. For me, life is all about fun, learning, and making special memories—both at work and at home!
Nursery Nurse
Gemma
Hi, I’m Gemma! I’ve been part of the Holywell Childcare family for 21 years, and I love being part of such a warm and nurturing environment. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with children of all ages, helping them learn, grow, and have fun. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my daughter, Ava. We love going on adventures together, whether it’s exploring new places or simply making special memories as a family.
Nursery Nurse
Kaitlyn
Hi, I’m Kaitlyn Munnerley! I joined Holywell Childcare in 2021 as a 17-year-old apprentice and proudly earned my Level 2 certificate in Children’s Care, Learning, Play, and Development in December 2022. Shortly after, I went on maternity leave to welcome my beautiful little girl, Arayah, into the world. Now, I’m back at HCC and primarily work in the toddler room, where I love helping little ones grow and thrive. Outside of work, my world revolves around being a mum and creating special memories with Arayah. Whether it’s playful days or quiet moments, I cherish every bit of it!
Apprentice Nursery Nurse
Courtney
Hi, I’m Courtney! I recently achieved my Level 2 qualification here at Holywell Childcare, and I’m excited to now be working towards my Level 3. Over the years, I’ve loved growing in my role and supporting the children as they learn and explore.
When I’m not at work, you’ll usually find me lost in a good book or expressing my creativity through drawing—two passions that inspire me every day. I’m so excited to continue developing my skills and making a difference in this amazing environment!
Nursery Nurse
Sarah
Hi, my name’s Sarah! I’ve been part of the Holywell Childcare family for 20 years, starting as a trainee at just 16 years old. Over the years, I’ve worked my way up, earning my Level 2, 3, and 5 qualifications, and I’m now the proud Supervisor of the Baby Room. Working with babies and watching them reach new milestones every day is incredibly rewarding, and I love being part of their early development journey.
Outside of work, I live with my partner Carl and our wonderful little boy, Jaxson, who is two. He also attends Holywell Childcare, which makes it even more special for me! As a family, we love spending time together, going on fun outings, and making precious memories. I’m passionate about providing a loving, nurturing environment for both the children at the nursery and my own little one at home!
Nursery Nurse
Martha
Hi, I’m Martha! I’ve been part of the Holywell Childcare team for 3 wonderful years, and I’m proud to be the Toddler Room Leader. I’m Level 3 qualified and passionate about working with children of all ages, but I especially love supporting toddlers as they grow, learn, and develop their independence. One of my favorite things to do is play outside with the children—whether it’s exploring nature, getting active, or simply enjoying the fresh air, there’s always something exciting to discover! Creating a fun, nurturing environment where little ones can thrive is what I love most about my job.
Nursery Nurse
Diane
Hi, I’m Diane Wadsworth! I’m Level 3 NVQ qualified in Children’s Care, Learning, and Development, and I’ve been working at Holywell Childcare since July 2024. I mainly work in the Preschool Room, where I love helping the children learn and grow in a fun, supportive environment.
Outside of work, I’ve been married to Graham for 31 years, and we’ve been together for 39! We have two wonderful children, Christopher and Erica, and two amazing grandsons, Bobby and Darwin. When I’m not spending time with my grandsons, I enjoy walking our dog Nessa and soaking up the sun on holidays.
Nursery Nurse
Katonah
Hi, I’m Katonah! I’ve been part of the Holywell Childcare team for 2 years, but my journey as a nursery nurse spans 13 wonderful years. I’m Level 3 qualified and passionate about nurturing little minds and helping them grow.
As a mum to my daughter Evelyn, who also attends the nursery, I love being part of a place that feels like family for both of us. Every day brings new adventures, and I’m thrilled to be part of the children’s learning and development journey!
Nursery Nurse
Jess
With Level 3 qualifications and 7 years of experience at Holywell Childcare, I’ve developed a real passion for bringing creativity to learning. I absolutely love role-playing with the children, as it sparks their imaginations and helps them grow. My main focus is in the preschool, where I guide and support the little ones as they begin to discover the world around them. Every day is an exciting adventure!
Nursery Nurse
Chloe
Hi, I’m Chloe! I’ve been part of Holywell Childcare for 3 years and love every moment of working with the children. I mainly work in the toddler unit, but I also spend time in the preschool room when needed. I’m currently working as a Level 2 while studying for my Level 3 qualification, which I’m really excited to complete.
Outside of work, I’m a mum to my wonderful daughter, Isabelle, who is 5. We love spending time together as a family, going on adventures, and exploring new places. One of our favorite things to do is visit the zoo—it’s Isabelle’s absolute favorite spot! Whether it’s a day out or just making special memories, I love being out and about with my little one.
Luke
Chef
Hi, I’m Luke, and I’m the chef at Holywell Childcare. I’ve been here for 7 months and absolutely love it! Before this, I spent 2 years teaching children in Italy, which gave me a real passion for working with kids.
Holywell is a special place for my family too—my niece Luna attends the nursery, and my sister Kayleigh is the Assistant Manager. I take pride in cooking nutritious, delicious meals that keep the children happy and energized!
Chef
Elen
Hi, I’m Ellen! I’m one of the cooks here at Holywell Childcare and have been part of the nursery for 19 amazing years. I started as a nursery nurse and, for the past 2 years, have been channeling my passion for healthy eating as a chef. I’m proud to have earned the Tiny Tums Award for creating nutritious meals for children.
With a Level 3 qualification in childcare and all three of my children having attended the nursery, Holywell is truly like home to me. I love contributing to the children’s well-being, one healthy meal at a time!
