MEET OUR TRIBE!

𝙲𝚛𝚎𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚊𝚕𝚜 ~ LLB (Hons) Law. Postgraduate certificate of Education with QTSWhen I created Tinkers & Tribe, I wanted to build the kind of nursery I would choose for my own children — somewhere that feels warm, exciting and full of possibility, while never losing sight of just how important these early years are.What makes us different is that we genuinely see every child as an individual. Childhood isn’t a race and children don’t all follow the same path. We take the time to understand each child’s personality, interests, strengths and needs, building strong relationships so that they feel safe enough to explore, take risks, make mistakes and grow in confidence.Our nurseries aren’t about keeping children busy with endless adult-led activities. We create beautiful, engaging environments and give children the freedom to tinker, explore, question, discover and learn through real experiences. We spend lots of time outdoors, embrace muddy knees and big adventures, and believe some of the most powerful learning happens when children are deeply absorbed in something they have discovered for themselves.Alongside that freedom sits a huge amount of professional knowledge and thought. Our educators understand child development and know when to step in, when to extend an idea and, just as importantly, when to stand back and let the magic happen.I also want families to feel that they belong here. You’re not simply dropping your child at nursery each morning; you’re becoming part of our Tribe. We want to know your family, celebrate your child’s journey with you and create the sort of childhood memories that last long after they’ve left us for school.Above everything, I want every child who comes through our doors to be known, loved, challenged and celebrated for exactly who they are.That’s what Tinkers & Tribe means to me.AlexandraFounder, Tinkers & Tribe

𝙲𝚛𝚎𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚊𝚕𝚜 ~ BA (Hons) in Education and Level 3 Diploma in childcare and education. “After going to University to train as a Primary School Teacher I discovered my passion in teaching early years and harnessing the awe and wonder that comes from their tiny minds. I always had a passion in the theories behind the way children learn through exploration and was fascinated by social pedagogy and its humanistic values that prioritises the wellbeing, learning and growth of each individual child, and focuses deeply on the environment and relationships that the children create. Our child centered approach to learning completely supports that as we create a home from home environment where children can display their interests which are constantly extended by the creativity and passion from each educator, in a setting that they share as their own. My love for nature and living things is always established day to day as we spend as much time outdoors as possible, allowing children to freely explore their environment so they have no limitations to their learning. Each day is a different learning journey which is completely led by the children, and we never know where its going to take us! As the manager at Shipborne Tinkers and Tribe, I love all the different hats that I get to wear; ranging from educator, to story teller, to cuddle giver, all the way to dinner lady! I recognise that each part I play has an enormous impact on the tiny lives that inspire me every day, and nurtures the bonds and attachments that are formed. I love to share my passion for my job with everyone I encounter daily and love being part of a team. I strive to create a setting where children can become creative, caring and curious learners and reach resilience in their play, in an environment that is safe, nurturing and stimulating for each individual little person”.

𝙲𝚛𝚎𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚊𝚕𝚜 ~ 10 years experience, Cache Level 3 diploma in Early Years Educator “My love and career in childcare began 10 years ago when my youngest child went off to school. I began supporting in a nursery during school hours and I fell in love with the profession. I completed my Level 3 Diploma and began building a career in Early Years. I love watching every child grow and develop and it is so wonderful to play such an important role in each and every child's lives. I find real joy in building strong bonds with children and their families. When I came to Tinkers and Tribe for the first time, I walked in to a childcare setting that was calming, comforting, engaging and inviting which was unlike any setting I had experienced before. I felt at home. The curiosity approach as a delivery model was new to me but I soon realised that it has a huge positive impact on every child's learning and development and it really supports their creativity and therefore I have embraced it. Here at Tinkers and Tribe, every day is exciting and child led and I am so happy to be part of it. It is wonderful to be led by the child's interests, never knowing where the day will take you and no two days are the same. I love to enter every child's world with them, joining them in their imaginative play, it is so much fun”.

𝙲𝚛𝚎𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚊𝚕𝚜 ~ 8 years experience & Cache Level 3 – Childcare and Education Childcare has always been close to my heart. I began babysitting and helping family friends with after-school pick-ups at just 15 years old. Shortly after, I started working in my first formal childcare setting where my passion for supporting child development truly began to shine, and I felt I had found my purpose. Over the past 10 years, I have learned so much about what it means to nurture, guide, and inspire children. My time at Tinkers and Tribe has transformed my outlook on childcare. The warm, calm, and interest-focused environment here has shown me that childcare doesn’t need to mimic a structured, watered-down school model where paperwork overshadows meaningful experiences. Instead, it can be a place where children’s voices, curiosity, and joy lead the way. During my time at Tinkers and Tribe, I’ve been fortunate to have incredible opportunities that have shaped both my skills and my vision. Now, as the Manager of our Dunton Green setting, I am committed to continuing my own growth while supporting both new and experienced practitioners. Seeing our team embrace child-led, in-the-moment learning where every activity is rooted in the children’s interests is truly inspiring. I feel as though my journey at Tinkers and Tribe Dunton Green has only just begun. I’m excited to be part of the changes and innovations ahead, and I’m passionate about inspiring others in the early years sector to see just how amazing and impactful this work can be.

𝙲𝚛𝚎𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚊𝚕𝚜 ~ 8 year’s experience. Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Diploma in children’s learning and development (Early Years Educator) “I have worked at Tinkers and Tribe of Dunton Green for several years now and it still has the same homely feel as when I first walked in. Working with my team is amazing; we all work so well together valuing one another’s strengths. I have 8 years experience working in childcare starting as an apprentice at a nursery then working at a preschool before going on maternity leave to have my own son before then joining the tribe. Becoming a mum has given me an even stronger outlook on childcare and I strive to provide our children and their parents with high quality childcare, that I would value as a mother myself, so much so, my son attended Tinkers and Tribe until starting school this year. I enjoy observing the children’s interests and moving them into their next steps and new learning opportunities. I love being creative and find joy in creating invitations to play that encourage the children’s development and provocations to spark new opportunities. Tinkers and Tribe is such a lovely place to work at with such a strong ethos and values. Having worked in other settings I can honestly say this is the calmest and most caring which is shown through the behaviours of the children and staff well being. Children are happier, they are able to lead their learning and most importantly they have a voice. Every day is different and I think that’s what makes it so special, it’s not the same tray of blocks on the table ;everything is led by and tailored to our children. I’ve learnt so much working here and adapted to such a beneficial way of teaching and caring for our families. I look forward to continuing my journey as a part of the tribe!”.

“I discovered my passion for Early Years 15 years ago when I volunteered working in a reception class. The first day I walked into the room something ignited in me and I realised from then that this was the career that I knew I had to get into. I have worked in Early Years settings and schools ever since. In my opinion, the best thing about working with young children every day is the abundance of learning that can happen each minute of the day- every day is a different journey and that is something I love to celebrate! So much so that I completed my BA (Hons) in Early Years in 2016 and have since used this is deepen my own knowledge of how children learn. In recent years have been based in a primary school which has blended really well with my knowledge of the Early Years. It has made me feel confident in being able to support our youngest learners to grow into their most wonderful versions of themselves and knowing that they can achieve so much as they start their learning journeys. I feel that the Early Years are the formative years for developing children to be inquisitive, confident and happy. We have the most amazing and important job in scaffolding these skills for children so they can thrive as they grow and learn. I started at Tinkers and Tribe in Weald in September, after spending maternity leave with my son. Since becoming a mum, my horizons and passion for both supporting children and giving them the best care has really broadened. This is a mindset that I not only instill in looking after my own son, but in each child in my care. When I first walked into Tinkers and Tribe, I was completely blown away by the environments, the welcoming staff and the ethos. I love that the setting is homely and child led- the surroundings are truly breathtaking too. The provocations and invitations to play that the children are encouraged to explore are personal, exciting and beautiful and allows us to work together to dive into learning in a way that each child leads. I was of course so impressed by this that my own Son is also a member of Tinkers and Tribe! I am so very excited to extend my own professional development with Tinkers and Tribe as both Deputy Manager and Preschool Room Leader in such a remarkable place.”

Cache Level 2 Childcare and Education "I hold a level 2 diploma in childcare and education and I have 2 years experience working with children aged 0 - 13 years. I joined Tinkers and Tribe because I have a massive interest in their approach to child development, I'm very excited to be part of the Team. I love to watch children develop and grow and I really enjoy supporting children in their interests".

Level 3 Early Years practitioner. 'I started my career working with children over 20 year’s ago. During this time, I have worked with all ages of the foundation stage. I have had the pleasure of working in pre-schools, reception classes, one to one supporting children with additional needs and various day nursery’s. I have a grown up Son, Daughter, three stepsons and soon to be 1 year old Grandson whom all give me so much pleasure. My family are a very special part of my life. Since joining Tinkers and Tribe, it has given me that family feeling that means a lot to me. It has such a relaxed atmosphere which encourages the children to embrace their learning that they experience on a day to day basis . The team in DG work closely together supporting each other to expand on their strengths and knowledge. It’s a pleasure to be part of such a supportive team'.

𝙲𝚛𝚎𝚍𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚊𝚕𝚜 ~ Level 3 Early Years Practitioner, 8 years experience. "My journey started with my younger brother who has autism; I have supported and helped care for him since a young age, which lead me to my interest in SEN, volunteering at Cage Green Autistic Unit and assisting children and young people with additional needs. I have such a love for what I do, it's a joy working with the children, watching them grow and flourish, giving them equal and fun learning experiences; it’s so rewarding to be a part of that process. Tinkers and Tribe is not like any other childcare setting, I have seen. I feel that everyone has worked so hard to create a warm and nurturing home from home environment, where the children can explore and learn at their own pace. It is an absolute pleasure to work alongside the Tribe at Dunton Green, and it is wonderful to work with supportive and creative individuals".

"Hi I'm Daina! My journey started 15 years ago working as a club leader for after school clubs. After a very fulfilled 5 years, I decided I wanted to learn more about child development and began working as a nursery nurse, from this I progressed to room leader and into managerial roles. I have had the pleasure of caring for children from the ages of 3 months to 11 years, the first group of children i cared for are now in their early twenties which is quite scary! I have two children of my own, a daughter who is five and my son who is almost two, he attends Tinkers he adores coming and has blossomed hugely through his time here. Tinkers is a very special place to work, I love the homely atmosphere which has been enabled to support your child's transition into being away from home. The children are free to learn and progress at their own pace, opposed to being a part of a tick box culture. It takes a village to raise a child and I am so proud to be a part of your child's journey!"

Education ~ Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design & Communication “During school I attended work experience in nursery settings where I assisted with the daily routine at the preschool and liaised with staff and children aged 2-4. I thoroughly enjoyed being part of a team and making connections with the children in their learning environments. I really enjoy working at Tinkers & Tribe because not only are the staff patient and amazing, the environment is lovely to be in and I love that the children take the lead in their own learning process, within such a nurturing environment. I love being involved with the activities at T&T, especially cooking which is such a valuable and enjoyable life skill! It’s wonderful to see children enjoying to complete tasks, being busy and having fun!”

My journey started while getting my degree in special educational needs at Canterbury Christ church university , which led to a massive interest in helping children and young people with additional needs such as: Autism. Even though I haven’t worked in childcare for very long, I have seen the importance of child led learning and how creativity has a massive impact on their development and them achieving their next steps and this is where my journey at Tinkers and Tribe started. Tinkers and Tribe is more than just a nursery; it's a home away from home where both adults and children can grow and learn. Seeing children involved, eager to learn, and smiling at the end of the day is an exciting part of my job. Since joining the Dunton Green Tribe, I have worked with incredible staff members, since joining the Tribe, have encouraged and collaborated with one another by exchanging ideas and helping me learn more as I go.

CACHE level 2 Childcare 'My passion for working with children started since being the oldest of four, and looking after my siblings. I have also gone onto have five children of my own! I love watching children grow and develop to their full potential; it is very rewarding to see. Tinkers and Tribe have welcomed me with open arms, and its warm atmosphere makes me feel right at home'.

'After leaving college, studying beauty I got a job in a nursery whilst deciding what I wanted to do in the future. I moved house and on relocation I found a new job at Tinkers and Tribe. I soon realised that I had a love for childcare and so I decided to do my level 3 apprenticeship with Tinkers and Tribe. I love the setting and how homely it is and the child led free play is wonderful and I like the endless outdoor opportunities available to us. I am enjoying doing my level 3 and I hope to progress within Tinkers and Tribe in the future'.

'Hi my name is Melissa, I have recently left college where I studied dance alongside working in the hospitality business but after accepting a bank position at Tinkers and Tribe in December 2023 since then I realised how much I enjoyed watching the children develop and grow and was then offered a full time position where I have now signed up to do my level 3 in child care. I love Tinkers and Tribe because of the unique settings they have and the ethos they deliver. Watching the children learn and play through lose parts and everyday objects is so rewarding and watching them gain their confidence in their physical abilities in the outside gardens and them being able to join in extra activities such as forest school. I also love the fact the settings have incredible views which the children will happily talk about, like watching the deers run in the fields below and having walks out towards the train tracks taking in all of the surroundings we are lucky to have'.

'Having come from a big family, I always knew that I wanted to pursue a career in childcare. After stepping foot into Tinker and Tribe I knew that this was the right place to start my career. The home away from home feel that this environment gives, and the great outside area the settings have is a great place for the children to develop. The relationship that the staff and children have is so lovely to see and I can’t wait to start my apprenticeship in Tinkers and Tribe'.

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I grew up in Spain, where I lived for 12 years before moving back to the UK. I spent five years working for an investment company in London, gaining valuable experience in organisation, communication, and teamwork. A little over a year ago, I decided to follow my sense of adventure and moved to Dubai to work as cabin crew for Emirates.While it was an incredible experience that allowed me to see the world and meet people from all walks of life, I realised how much I missed being close to family and friends. I moved back to the UK in July and joined Tinkers and Tribe in September. I’m so happy to now be part of such a warm, creative, and caring environment where every day feels rewarding.

My passion for the industry began at school. I became inspired by my teachers who would comment on how well I would suit the childcare industry. I left school to attend university and study criminology but I couldn't stop thinking about how I wanted to work with children. I found myself tailoring all of my exams towards children and deterring children from criminal activity and I learnt how important education was in this process. I found my passion for it when I began working with children and Dunton Green has reignited that love all over again, the support and love for the children is something to truly admire and be proud of.

After finishing sixth form last year studying health and social care I found the perfect opportunity to work at Tinkers and Tribe Weald.  I have always been around children as I have four younger siblings so I knew this was where I wanted to start a career.  I wanted to further my knowledge so I have started my level 3 in childcare.  I love the child led and curiosity approach to learning exploring interests and including home life adventures.  I cannot wait to learn more along my journey.

I am a passionate early years practitioner with over 14 years experience working with children across a variety of settings including primary school, private nannying and nursery environments.  I hold a level 3 qualification in chidcare and level 2 in health and social care and i have extensive experience and training in supporting children with special educational needs giving me the ability to provide inclusive high quality care and education.  I first joined Tinkers and Tribe in 2022 after having my daughter and I was drawn to the settings nurturing ethos and its strong focus on the curiosity approach.  After some time away I am delighted to have returned as I truly value not only the inspiring environment and child led approach but also the warm friendly nature of the setting and the incredible teamwork within the staff team.  I have real love for the outdoors and enjoy making the most of the beautiful surroundings encouraging children to explore, discover and develop a lifelong love through nature and play.

Since school I have always wanted to work with children, so I completed my work experience at my local primary school. Once I left school I worked in a super market before deciding to start my journey in childcare, I started working with a friend in a charity nursery where I learnt so much about how children socialise, learn and play. I went on to complete my level 3 and Senco training which helped me gain my role as an educator and SENCo at tinkers and tribe. When I walked in for my interview I instantly realised how inclusive and supportive the setting is and staff are, there are lots of aids dotted around each room to help children to communicate, a sensory room for children who may need time to regulate and all the staff are aware of each child’s individual needs, which makes me so happy to see as someone who loves to see positive progression in SEN children. I feel here I am able to express my creative ideas with the full support of professionals who are always full of fun and inventive ideas.