Meet Our Team

We describe our team as a family, our individual strengths all complimenting each other to make a wonderful learning and nurturing experience for all our children
 Kate Samways

Kate Samways

Early Years Leader and Puffin Class Teacher

Kate is our school Early Years Leader and Wellbeing Co-Ordinator. Kate is Paediatric First Aid trained, and is very passionate about her role as a Special Educational Needs Coordinator and is constantly researching strategies & putting together action plans to ensure each and every child is given the best opportunity to learn. As an Early Years teacher, she has a special interest in supporting children's language development.
 Lisa Church

Lisa Church

Preschool Manager

Lisa is the Preschool Manager and an experienced Level 3 Early Years Practitioner, currently advancing her leadership expertise through a Level 5 Early Years qualification. She is the Designated Safeguarding Officer and a trained Paediatric First Aider, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care. Passionate about early years education, Lisa drives the continuous improvement of the preschool’s provision by introducing innovative ideas and best practice. She has a strong understanding of child development and is especially committed to supporting children who may need extra help with speech, language, or other areas of learning. Lisa finds great joy in seeing children grow, develop, and thrive, and she is dedicated to creating a nurturing, stimulating environment that helps every child reach their full potential.
preschoolmanager@meldreth.cambs.sch.uk
Email
 Ellie Hayes

Ellie Hayes

Caterpillars Room Leader

Ellie is an experienced Level 3 Practitioner with a Paediatric First Aid qualification and a lifelong passion for working with children. She’s been in childcare since leaving school and brings a wealth of hands-on experience to her role. Ellie has a special interest in children’s emotional development and is dedicated to making sure every child feels safe, seen, and heard. She believes in creating a nurturing environment where all children can thrive and have their individual needs met.
 Lori-Anne  Williams

Lori-Anne Williams

Butterfies Room Leader

Lori-Anne is an experienced Level 3 Early Years professional with nearly 13 years in childcare and nursery settings. She has 5 years of Team Leader experience and expertise in working with children, parents, safeguarding, and SEND. Paediatric First Aid trained and holding a Hygge Accreditation, she is passionate about creating nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environments where children aged 0–5 can thrive.
 Laura Holmes

Laura Holmes

Level 3 Practitioner

Laura is a qualified Level 3 Early Years Practitioner and is quickly becoming an integral part of the preschool team. She has built a wonderful rapport with the children, fostering a nurturing and engaging environment where they feel confident to explore and learn. Laura holds a Paediatric First Aid qualification and demonstrates a particular fascination with early scientific development, encouraging curiosity and discovery through hands-on activities and exploration. She is dedicated to supporting each child’s individual growth while contributing positively to the overall preschool experience.
 Megan Howard

Megan Howard

Level 3 Apprentice

Megan is a valued member of our team, and is currenty completing a Level 3 Early Years Educator Qualification. With a natural enthusiasm for working with young children, Megan brings warmth, energy, and a caring approach to everything she does. Megan is particularly skilled at building positive relationships with children, helping them feel settled, supported, and confident in their play and learning.
 Sarah Williams

Sarah Williams

Level 3 Apprentice

Sarah is currently completing a Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship and is an enthusiastic and valued member of the preschool team. She actively supports the planning and delivery of engaging, play-based learning experiences that foster children’s curiosity, creativity, and overall development. Sarah is committed to understanding each child’s individual needs and interests, ensuring that learning is both meaningful and enjoyable. She works closely with colleagues to create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can explore, discover, and develop confidence and independence.
 Sally D'Allesandro

Sally D'Allesandro

Level 3 Practitioner

Sally is an experienced early years practitioner who often provides cover across the preschool, bringing flexibility and reliability to the team. Known affectionately by the children as “Silly Sally,” she uses her fun and engaging approach to create a joyful and welcoming environment where children feel confident to learn and explore.
 Rebecca Brown

Rebecca Brown

Preschool Practitioner

Rebecca provides cover at the preschool and is a vlaued member of the school wrap-around care team, bringing a caring and kind approach to her role. She is a trained Paediatric First Aider, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all children. Rebecca is dedicated to creating a nurturing space where children feel happy, confident, and valued.