Oakwood Team (ID 1488)

• Karen
  Early Years Lead
  Karen

  I am the Early Years Lead, SENCO and DSL at Oakwood Early Years and have worked here for around 20 years. My journey here began as a parent bringing my two children to groups, and I’ve never left! I live in the local area and truly enjoy supporting the children and families within our community — many of whom return time and time again.

   

  I’m married, and both of my children have also gone on to work in roles that support children and families. At home, I have two lively French Bulldogs who definitely keep me on my toes! In my spare time, I love shopping, travelling, exploring new places, and making special memories.

• Daren
  Senior Early Years Educator
  Daren

  I qualified as an Early Years Teacher in 2015 after completing my placement at Rowanfield Children’s Centre. Following this, I joined Aspire, initially covering maternity leave within the Achieving Twos groups before moving into a fulltime role at Rowanfield.

   

  I later progressed to Gardners Lane Children’s Centre, where I spent over four years as the Early Years Lead, further developing my leadership and pedagogical practice. I then moved to Oakwood Children’s Centre to take on the role of Senior Early Years Educator and Deputy DSL, where I continue to build on my experience and passion for high quality early education.

   

  Outside of work, I am happily married and a parent to three children, ranging from a six-year-old enjoying primary school to a seventeen-year-old who has recently started college. I am passionate about physical activity and outdoor learning within the Early Years, and I love using my creativity to enhance environments - especially through hands on DIY and repurposing everyday resources to create engaging learning opportunities.

• Emily
  Early Years Educator
  Emily

  I started my career as an apprentice and am now a qualified Level 3 Early Years Educator. I also have two children who keep me happily busy!

• Sophie
  Early Years Educator
  Sophie

  I’ve been working in Early Years for three years now, and I love it. Both of my children attended Rowanfield Children’s Centre before moving on to school, so Aspire Foundation is very close to my heart. I really enjoy getting to know the children and watching them grow, learn, and develop their own little personalities.

• Sarah
  Early Years Educator
  Sarah

  I have worked in Early Years for many years, and after taking a break to raise my three children, my passion for supporting children and families has only grown stronger. I’m married and a proud dog mum to a lively boxer. Outside of work, I love shopping, going on holidays, and making my house a home. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends -  usually with a Coke Zero in hand!

• Kat
  Early Years Educator
  Kat

  I have worked in Early Years since 2003 and hold a Level 3 qualification in Preschool Practice, Learning, and Development. I’m married with three children, and we moved to the UK in 2012. Before relocating, I worked in childcare for the British Armed Forces. I’m passionate about supporting children’s development, and in my spare time I enjoy travelling and spending time with my dogs.

• Levana
  Early Years Apprentice
  Levana

  I began my journey in Early Years as a volunteer here at Oakwood before progressing into an apprenticeship, and I am now working towards achieving my Level 3 qualification.