

Meet the staff

Sophie Hale
Setting Lead
B-Ed (Hons) with QTS
Alex Hale
Maintenance Lead
We are passionate about creating an education that truly puts children first. Our vision has been shaped by years of experience, a shared love of the outdoors and, perhaps most importantly, by raising our own four children.
Sophie is a primary school teacher whose experience across mainstream and special schools, alongside her Forest School training, has fostered a deep belief in outdoor, child-led learning. Raising our children in a Montessori-inspired way has only strengthened our conviction that children learn best through real experiences, meaningful play and time spent immersed in nature.
Alex is passionate about giving children genuine responsibility and the confidence to learn through doing. He believes children flourish when they are trusted to use real tools, solve real problems, think independently and take pride in caring for their environment. Whether building, growing, fixing or caring for animals, Alex loves creating opportunities for children to develop practical life skills, resilience and self-belief.
Together, we wanted to create a setting that develops children holistically—not just academically, but socially, emotionally and physically too. A place where childhood is celebrated, curiosity is encouraged, risks are managed rather than removed, and every child is given the freedom to discover who they are.
Jane Gwynne
Early Years Education
BA (Hons) PGCE with QTS
I am a primary school teacher and a mum of four. I have taught children of all ages for over 20 years- from managing nurseries and running reception classes to fostering teenagers, and everything in between! I love the creative freedom that comes with teaching children in such a unique, bespoke environment; following their interests and building on all of their individual talents.

Gemma Zajac
Primary Education
BA (Hons) PGCE with QTS
I am a mum of four wonderful boys (two sets of twins!) and have been a teacher for over 20 years. I care greatly about wellbeing and am so pleased to be working in an environment where we can truly put mental health first.

Kirsty Connolly
Primary Education
BA (Hons) PGCE with QTS
I am a primary school teacher and have a love of making learning fun and creative. I have a passion for art and music and I always try to bring that into my teaching.

Jane Jarvis
Early Years Education
NNEB
I have worked with children for all of my adult life; with 13 years experience in mainstream schools. From raising my own daughter and working in schools, I have a wealth of experience to draw upon when thinking outside of the box. I love working outside and being out in the community with the children.

Mya Pool
Teaching Assistant
Level 3 Apprentice

I have worked with children for all of my adult life; with 13 years experience in mainstream schools. From raising my own daughter and working in schools, I have a wealth of experience to draw upon when thinking outside of the box. I love working outside and being out in the community with the children.
Want to join our team?
The Fledglings is a thriving business and whilst we are not currently hiring, if you are happy to share your details, please submit your CV and covering letter via the email address below and we will securely store your details in consideration for any future vacancies. Thank you!