At Helmdon Acorns, we pride ourselves on our small, dedicated team. Because we are a close-knit group, every practitioner gets to know every child individually. While each child is assigned a Key Person to oversee their developmental records, we work collaboratively to provide a consistent, nurturing “home-from-home” environment for all children.
Setting Manager – Designated Safeguarding Lead – EY SENDCO
Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Early Learning and Childcare | CACHE Level 3 Diploma | EY SENCO Level 3
Kim has been at Helmdon Acorns since 2010. She oversees the day-to-day management, business, and administrative side of the preschool while supporting the Room Leader and working hands-on in the room as an Early Years Practitioner. As our SENDCO, Kim ensures our setting provides an inclusive, supportive, and nurturing environment for every child. Kim is also the Key Person for the ‘Red Group’.
Room Leader – Early Years Practitioner
Level 3 Early Years Educator
Samantha joined Helmdon Acorns in January 2022, bringing previous childcare experience working overseas before completing her Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification with distinction in 2025. As Room Leader, Sam supports the daily running of our room and routines, deputising for the Setting Manager in her absence. Sam is also the Key Person for the ‘Yellow Group’.
Early Years Practitioner
CACHE Level 3 Diploma
Lorraine joined Helmdon Acorns in September 2018 as a Level 3 Early Years Practitioner and is an experienced, highly valued member of our team. Dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging environment, Lorraine is the Key Person for our ‘Purple Group’.
Early Years Practitioner
CACHE Level 3 Diploma
Alice joined Helmdon Acorns in February 2023 as a Level 3 Early Years Practitioner and is a dedicated, highly valued member of our team. Focused on creating a supportive and engaging environment, Alice is the Key Person for our ‘Green Group’.
Early Years Practitioner
Level 3 Early Years Qualified
Ellie joined Helmdon Acorns in September 2026 as a Level 3 Early Years Practitioner. Dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging environment, Ellie is the Key Person for our ‘Blue Group’.
Bank Support Practitioner & Setting Cleaner
Maria is a valued member of our team, providing flexible room cover for staff absences, training, and busy sessions, alongside working one afternoon a week in the room. In addition to supporting the practitioners, Maria oversees the daily cleaning of the preschool, keeping our environment spotless and safe for our children.
