Who's Who
Welcome to the Parkend Early Learners Staff.
Sophie Thorne
Manager
DSL
SENCO
I have been dedicated to early years education for over a decade, creating nurturing, engaging, and inclusive environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Since 2015, I have proudly managed Yorkley Playgroup, supporting children and families within the local community and helping to build a warm, welcoming setting focused on every child’s individual development.
In 2019, I expanded my role by also becoming Manager of Parkend Playgroup, leading both settings alongside one another. Managing two playgroups has allowed me to develop strong leadership skills, build experienced and caring teams, and maintain high standards of early years care and education across both locations.
I am passionate about providing children with safe, stimulating, and happy learning experiences that encourage confidence, creativity, and independence. I believe in working closely with families to ensure every child feels valued, supported, and ready to take their next steps in education.
Throughout my career, I have remained committed to creating positive environments where children can flourish socially, emotionally, and academically while making lasting memories during their early years.
Anita Thomas
Deputy Manager
Deputy DSL
Deputy SENCO
I am a dedicated and passionate Deputy Nursery Manager with over six years of experience in early years education, having started my career in childcare in 2018. I am committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.
As a parent to three children and a proud grandparent to one grandchild, I understand the importance of providing high-quality care and building strong, trusting relationships with families. My personal and professional experiences allow me to support children with patience, empathy, and understanding while helping to guide and encourage their development during these important early years.
In my role as Deputy Nursery Manager, I work closely with staff, children, and parents to ensure the nursery provides the highest standards of care, learning, and wellbeing. I am passionate about supporting children’s confidence, independence, and individual needs, and I take pride in helping to create a warm and welcoming environment for every family.
Tina Thomas
Early Years Educator
My Name is Tina and I have 3 grown up children that have given me 8 wondeful grandchidlren and 1 very special great grandson. I am very family orianted and love making lots of memeories with all the family. I am very fortunate to work alongside my 2 daughters in Parkend, I started my carer in Early Years in 2020. I am passionate and believe that every child deserves a safe, happy and inspiring place to learn and grown during the most important stage of thier development.
Fiona Thomas
Early Years Educator
I’m a dedicated Early Years and Wraparound Care Practitioner at Parkend Early Learners, where I have worked since September 2022. I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.
As a parent of three children myself, I understand the importance of providing high-quality care, patience, and support for every child’s individual needs. My experience both professionally and personally allows me to build strong relationships with children and families, helping children feel happy, confident, and valued.
I enjoy supporting children through play-based learning, encouraging creativity, independence, and social development in a fun and caring setting. Whether during the school day or wraparound care sessions, I strive to create positive experiences that help children feel secure and supported at all times.
I take pride in being approachable, reliable, and enthusiastic, and I am committed to helping every child reach their full potential in a warm and welcoming environment
Sam Large
Wrap Around Care Assistant
Connie Jelf
Early Years Educator
Hi my name is Connie. I am a proud mother of two sons, Eric and Ralph, with my partner Scott, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends including watching football and rugby. Watching our children grow has inspired my passion for supporting the development of all young children. Since joining Yorkley and Parkend in March 2025, I have been dedicated to helping every child build confidence, curiosity and independence, creating a warm and nurturing environment where they feel valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.