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.
Kim has been at Helmdon Acorns since 2010. She manages the business and administrative side of the preschool while supporting Sue with room management and working hands-on as an Early Years Practitioner. As our SENDCO, Kim also ensures our setting is inclusive and supportive for every child. Kim has co-managed the setting since 2021.
Susanna has been at Helmdon Acorns since 2011 and is a passionate advocate for nature-based learning. As Room Manager, she is responsible for the room management, overseeing the daily environment and curriculum. She qualified as a Level 3 Forest School Leader in 2016 and leads our weekly outdoor sessions. Sue has co-led the preschool with Kim Sadler since 2021.
Lorraine joined Helmdon Acorns in September 2018 as a Level 3 Early Years Practitioner. Lorraine is a key worker to a group of children and her group is the ‘Purple Group’.
Lorraine also has her Level 3 Paediatric First Aid.
Alice joined Helmdon Acorns in February 2023 as a Level 3 Early Years Practitioner. Alice is a Keyworker to a group of children and her group is the ‘Green group’.
Alice holds a Level 3 Paediatric First Aid.
Level 3 Qualified Samantha joined Helmdon Acorns in January 2022 as an Early Years Practitioner. In 2023, Sam started her Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification, completing it with distinction in July 2025. Sam is a keyworker to a group of children and her group is the ‘Yellow Group’.
