Staff members:

Meet Our Manager – Ellie

Ellie has over 10 years of experience in childcare, including five years managing two outdoor settings before taking the exciting step of opening and managing her very own setting.  

Her passion for working with children began early, inspired by accompanying her mum to work at a local primary school. As a child, Ellie spent much of her time at pony club with her horses, where she loved helping younger groups. She even organised a charity event, teaching others about Gymkhana – a horse riding competition. These experiences sparked her love for teaching and nurturing young minds.  

After finishing school, Ellie pursued an apprenticeship in childcare, and she’s never looked back. Known for her creativity and positivity, Ellie is always thinking of fun and exciting ways for children to learn. Her approachable and bubbly nature makes her a favourite with both children and parents.  

Becoming a mum herself gave Ellie a new perspective on children’s needs, deepening her love and understanding of her work. In her spare time, Ellie enjoys exploring the countryside or seaside – rain or shine! She firmly believes in the magic of natural materials for crafts and sensory play.  

Ellie is dedicated to creating a happy, healthy, and safe environment where children can thrive, grow, and learn.  

Qualifications  

- Early Years Childcare Level 3  

- Currently working towards Early Years Lead Practitioner (Level 5)  

- Paediatric First Aid Level 3  

- Enhanced DBS certification  

- Forest School Level 2  

- Safeguarding Awareness Group 3  

- Food Hygiene Level 2  

Ellie can’t wait to welcome you and your little ones into her setting!

Liv

Liv has been working in childcare since leaving school and currently holds a Level 2 Childcare qualification. She’s now completing her Level 3 and brings a growing depth of knowledge and creativity to the setting.

A true nature enthusiast, Liv loves discovering how wild plants can be used in baking and enjoys getting creative in the kitchen with the children. Her calm, nurturing presence and love of natural, healthy treats bring something special to our days at Wild Roots.

Qualifications

- Level 2 in childcare

- Paediatric First Aid

- Food Hygiene

- Group 2 Safeguarding

- Enhanced DBS certifaction

Willow

Willow is at the very beginning of her childcare journey, having recently finished school. Her love of the great outdoors shines through—whether she’s riding her horse or walking her dogs in the countryside, Willow feels most at home in nature.

She’s fun, bubbly, and wise beyond her years, Willow spends most weekends mentoring the younger children within her pony club and has proven to have a natural ability to connect with children.

Qualifications

- Introduction to EYFS Curriculum

- Paediatric First Aid

- Food Hygiene

- Group 2 Safeguarding

- Enhanced DBS certifaction

Izzy

Izzy joins us from Kiddi Caru in Exeter and brings with her a real passion for outdoor education. She has been deeply involved in childcare in her previous role and also loves spending time with her young niece.

Izzy enjoys exploring nature, engaging in creative outdoor activities, and is excited to bring her enthusiasm and experience to the team.

Outside of work, Izzy enjoys exploring the countryside with her two dogs and spending time with her horse. She’s also a keen cook and is excited to expand her knowledge of foraging and cooking with edible plants.

Qualifications

- Introduction to EYFS Curriculum

- Paediatric First Aid

- Food Hygiene

- Group 2 Safeguarding

- Enhanced DBS certification

- Level 3 Apprentice.

Kayla

We’re thrilled to welcome Kayla to the Wild Roots team! With a strong background in childcare, experience across the EYFS curriculum and holding a full Level 3 qualification in Early Years. She has a real passion for messy play and is eager to expand her skills in outdoor learning.

Outside of nursery life, Kayla enjoys horse riding, going for walks in nature and getting creative with Lego. We’re so excited to have her on board!

Qualifications

- Level 3 in childcare

- Paediatric First Aid

- Food Hygiene

- Group 2 safeguarding

-Enhanced DBS Certification

Sophie

Sophie joins us as our new Room Lead. She is a qualified Level 3 Early Years Practitioner with a strong passion for supporting children’s development and giving them the very best start in life. She particularly enjoys messy play and weaving outdoor experiences into children’s learning. Sophie is also planning to progress to her Level 5 qualification in Early Years to further deepen her knowledge and practice. With previous management experience, she is looking forward to helping with the day-to-day running of Wild Roots.

Outside of work, Sophie enjoys spending time at the beach, walking her dog, paddle boarding, running, and renovating her 1950s home. She loves learning new practical skills and keeping active.