Meet The Team – Little Explorers Goose Green

These are the people who make every day an adventure for your child

Heather Lomas

Managing Director

As the founder of Little Explorers, I bring my passion for inclusive education and nature-based learning to everything I do. I holy my Early years teacher status qualificaiton and with expperiance a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) and a certified Forest School Leader, I am dedicated to creating supportive, engaging environments where children of all abilities can thrive. Whether I’m guiding children through the wonders of the forest or developing personalised strategies to meet unique educational needs, my goal is to foster growth, confidence, and a love for learning in every individual I work with.

Rachel McHugh

Area Manager

Hi, my name’s Rachel and I am very proud to be the manager of Little Explorers, I have been working here for almost 5 years, and I have loved every minute.

My pedagogical (teaching style) approach is centred around child led learning, I believe children learn best when they are together, developing skills from their observations and surroundings. With children having a role model, they can learn individually and open themselves to wider educational opportunities.

Emily Glynn

Manager

Hi, I’m Emily, the Nursery Manager here. I’ve been working in childcare for nearly 10 years and I’m Level 3 qualified. I absolutely love what I do, and my main focus is creating a safe and happy space where children can learn, grow, and have fun. I enjoy working with my team to make sure we provide the best care and support for every child.
Outside of work, I’m all about spending time with my family and our dog – whether it’s going on walks or just enjoying the outdoors. I’m also a bit of a baking enthusiast, so I’m always in the kitchen trying out new recipes! When I have some free time, I love a good board game session with my family.
I’m always here to help, and I feel lucky to be part of such a wonderful team!

Amy Droughton

Deputy manager/ Adventurers

Hi I’m Amy,

I’m super excited to have joined the Little Explorers Team as Deputy manager here at Goose Green, and proud to have my little boy Oscar alongside me on our new adventure.

With over 10 years of childcare experience, i can honestly say childcare is a passion of mine and have been lucky enough over time to further my skills within leadership and management.

I am a strong believer that Every child has their own unique learning style and pride myself in supporting and promoting exciting, enabling play opportunities and watch as they flourish and achieve to the best of their ability all whilst having the greatest fun.

Heather Wilde

Deputy Manager/ Explorers

Hi, I’m Heather, I am a level 3 early years educator, with over 18 years experience! I am passionate about childhood development and love to see the progression of each child during their time with us! I love the child led approach to learning and creating a nurturing home from home environment.
I enjoy spending time with my family and cooking! I love shopping and self care, who doesn’t love a pamper?! I am based within the Explorers room, so come and say hello to me and the team

Gemma Smith

Chef/ Administrator

Hi, My name is Gemma. I work in the kitchen at Little Explorers and also cover admin work for all three of our settings! I have many years experience working within the catering industry, my most recent being in a school kitchen. I really enjoy cooking , baking and looking after the Little Explorers over lunch time. I love thinking of new and exciting meals for the children (and Staff!) to enjoy, ensuring it is also healthy and balanced so that they are all ready to enjoy the rest of their day. I love going on holidays in our caravan and going on walks with my dog, Rocky. I love to chat, so come on in and say Hello!

Emma Burrows

Explorers

Hello, I’m Emma! I am a level 3 qualified Early years practitioner, I have been qualified for 10 years and have got lots of experience working alongside children. I have loved working in children’s centres over the years but have had so much fun coming back into working in a nursery setting! I have a little boy called Oliver, who comes to nursery with me, we love spending time with our friends here and going to our favourite places, like the zoo! We have a cheeky dog at home, called Reggie. I am based within the Explorers room with Sarah and Jess and can’t wait to share my Little Explorers journey with you all.

Jess Cowpland

Explorers

Hi, I’m Jess and I am based in the Explorers room. I am currently working towards my level 3 qualification as an apprentice. I am a big believer that outdoor learning provides the children with a huge variety of rich learning experiences, all while they are exploring the natural resources around them. Giving children the opportunity to investigate outdoors allows them to take more of their own managed risks and have fun at the same time! In my free time, I enjoy taking my dog, Darla, for walks and enjoy going for meals with family and socialising with my friends!