Little Meadow Staff | Little Meadow Group

Gemma Howe

Gemma has worked in Little Meadow since 2017 providing both supply cover and 1:1 with children in the setting. In September 2019 Gemma became a permanent member of the Early Years team completing her Level 3 in Early Years childcare.

Gemma’s journey with Little Meadow began when her two children attended the setting and so began her passion for Early Years.

When not at work Gemma enjoys going to the theatre, socialising with friends and traveling to support her daughter with cheerleading. She has two teenage children and a pet rabbit.

Joyce Dedross

Joyce is level 3 qualified and has over the years established a strong and successful Early Years practice. She joined Little Meadow in 2013 on a temporary maternity cover basis. After quickly became an integral part of the family in September 2014 she agreed to become a permanent member of the team.

Joyce can be found in all areas of Little Meadows Early Years sessions and is always full of energy. She particularly enjoys creative activities and exploring imaginative role play and for this reason she focuses on ensuring the opportunities we provide reflect the current interests of the children and the environment enables their self exploration.

In her spare time Joyce likes to knit and spend time with friends and family. She has two grown up children and a grandson.

Dave Taylor

Dave joined the setting in September 2010, having previously worked in a local setting after spending many years in the RAF. He has his level 3 qualification and on joining the setting supported the transition from a small modular building to our new premises. In recent years he has been supporting children in a 1:1 role and working in Rising 3’s.

When not at work Dave can often be found on the golf course or out and about with family. He has two grown up daughters and a pet cat.

Nicky Tanner

Nicky began her love affair with Little Meadow and Early Years in 2008 when her own family attended the setting. In 2011 she was approached to join the team and provide short term maternity cover.

This was the start of her very own Early Years journey, securing a permanent job in the setting and is establishing herself as the settings Early Year’s Care Lead.

Nicky takes time to get to know our families and uses this knowledge to support all the children but particularly those in her key group. She is passionate about her job and cares about all the children working hard to ensure everyone that joins our family has the very best experience.

Nicky has recently completed her Level 4 qualification.

When not at work Nicky can often be found at Kingholm following Gloucester rugby. She has two grown up children.

Clare Irvine

Clare joined Little Meadow in September 2010 but her relationship with the setting started long before that with her own family. Each of Clare’s children have begun their educational journey at the setting and it is these early experiences that make Clare such an excellent “front of house” ambassador. Every visitor that enters the building are greeted by Clare. She can talk with confidence about all aspects of the setting and when showing people around she understands and speaks from personal experiences.

Initially Clare joined us to control the setting finances on behalf of the committee. Over the years her job has evolved and she now co-ordinates most of the office day to day as well as supporting the Group Manager. Clare will usually be the friendly face at the door or voice at the end of the phone her approach epitomises the Little Meadow philosophy.

When not at work Clare enjoys knitting and crochet as well as running, walking and cycling. She has three grown up children and a cockapoo called Wilson.

Sharon Phillips

Sharon is the setting Group Manager and Early Years Professional. She started at the setting in April 2001 as Deputy and has worked with the committee and staff to secure the very best for all the families that access the setting whether for Early Years, Out of School or Holiday Club. Sharon is the setting Designated Safeguarding officer and Senco.

She is never happier than when she is working with the children especially with Maths and Science and works closely with the staff to ensure that Little Meadow meets the unique needs of every child that joins. Sharon is committed to working with families to secure the seamless transition for children as motivated learners in their next steps of their educational journey

When not at work Sharon enjoys going to the theatre, spending time in Devon and enjoying time with family. She has three grown up children, a grandson and two springer spaniels.