Our Staff
Nurturing Young Minds
Cheryl - Manager
Hi, my name is Cheryl, I am a mum and have worked in education for over 8 years. I hold a level 3 qualification in childcare, and I was awarded a Postgraduate Certificate in Children's and Adolescent Mental Health and Wellbeing in May 2025 alongside holding a Psychology Degree. I am the SENCo lead at the setting as well as the Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health Lead, and the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). I have also completed extensive training in understanding autism, anxiety, ADHD and how early intervention can be so important.
I understand the importance of recognizing all feelings from a young age, and how this can be explored through play, I have a passion for all children to be heard and allowing an environment to adapt to provide the best experience.
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In my spare time I like eating out with friends and family, shopping, and finding new places to walk our 2 dogs. I plan to bring all the sparkle!
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Meg - Deputy Manager
I have 8 years experience in Early Years which started for me as an apprentice to then gaining my Level 2 and Level 3 Early Years qualifications, to working my way to becoming a Deputy Manager and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead for the last 3 years. I have also had training in understanding autism and children’s mental health.
I have a huge passion and understanding in supporting all children and families in reaching their goals and always feel so proud to be such a big part in this achievement. I absolutely love to have fun so we will always be singing, dancing, going to the moon in our imaginary rocket and getting messy with arts and crafts!
I have a toddler aged two and a crazy two year old Sproker Spaniel, Baxter, who like to keep me on my toes!
In my spare time I love to go out for dinners out with my family and friends, exploring the outdoors and I love a good series/documentary to watch!
Claire -
Practitioner /
Office Manager
I started my career in childcare as a childminder while my three daughters (now grown-up) were young. During my time in early years I have worked in a variety of different roles including one-to-one SEN support and managing a Pre-School. While working with the children I have continued to learn alongside them, and I have a Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education and a BA (Hons) degree in Early Childhood Studies.
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I am passionate about the importance of emotional development, and speech and language and communication development, in children’s ability to learn. I have a particular interest in the use of natural resources and loose parts play in the early years.
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Alongside my childcare career I worked in administration and finance in a primary school, running a busy school office for many years.
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In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren, travelling, and during the summer I volunteer at and help to run various music festivals.
Lucy - Practitioner
My name is Lucy I have recently received my Level 3 qualification in Early Years. I have previously worked in Forest schools and other nurseries. I also have a Degree in Performing Arts and I like to put on performances with the children, it’s a lot of fun. I believe that children can express themselves through drama.
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I have had medication training, Autism training, resilience and mental health training and physical intervention training.
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I am a mum and I like to spend time with friends and family. I love the theatre, visiting new places and trying new foods.
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Mel - Apprentice
Hi I'm Mel, I'm currently studying for a level 3 early years educator qualification whilst working at Little Saplings. I have previously been on a pre school committee and worked at a pre school which is when I discovered my passion to work with children.
I have lived in Lawshall since I was a little girl and attended Lawshall Primary School many years ago. I have 4 daughters who have all attended Lawshall pre school and primary school, two of which are now adults and have flown the nest. I am also blessed with a 6 year old Grandaughter who keeps me on my toes.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, playing games, going on local countryside walks, baking, DIY and crafting.