Our Team

Katrina McLeod

Katrina is from the United Kingdom where she qualified as an N.N.E.B Nursery Teacher, with also a Cache Level 3 in Protecting Children and a Diploma in Higher Education in Play work.

Through a fun, creative and play based programme, Katrina aims to provide lots of activities and experiences related to the Creative Curriculum and Early Learning Framework for your child to explore.

She is passionate about challenging and developing children’s learning through play with the knowledge that this will encourage happy, confident and independent children.

Cynthia Pacheco

Cynthia has been working as a teacher at IDEA ELC for the past six years. She holds a Montessori qualification, and has completed a CACHE level 3 in Early Years Care and Education.

She is a talented practitioner with 11 years of experience with children of all ages. Cynthia has a passion for teaching and believes in helping children reach their unique individual potential.

She is also a firm believer in developing independence, encouraging curiosity, and instilling high expectations in students by providing them with sustained shared thinking activities

Naz Taylor

Naz is in her 10th year as an Early Years Educator and has a wealth of experience working with young children in various curriculums. She holds BA with Hons in Teaching English as a second language, CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Diploma in Special Education Need (SEN).

Naz is passionate about creating a positive, inclusive learning environment for children that supports and encourages a love for learning, curiosity, feeling valued, respected and connected. She enjoys working and supporting children with developmental needs and helping them achieve their milestones.

Ann-Marie Parks

Anna Parks is originally from Scotland and holds SVQ Level 2 and 3 qualifications in Social Services (Children and Young People). She is also a fully qualified Pediatric Sleep Consultant.

With many years of experience working closely with young children, Anna is deeply passionate about fostering an environment where children can explore their individual interests. She strongly promotes independence, encouraging children to develop confidence and curiosity through self-guided learning and discovery.

Andrea Hayes

Andrea graduated with a B.A. Hons degree in Acting/Musical theatre before pursuing her love of teaching. She then obtained an extra qualification to be a licensed educator in Kindermusik 7 years ago, to bring together the love of teaching young children with the joy of music.

Andrea has been a class teacher at The Kids Palace and The Palace Nursery for the last 9 years and has been working as a class teacher at IDEA ELC since January 2023.

She believes there is nothing more rewarding than helping a child grow and providing a foundation for the future.

Emma Smith

Emma is from the United Kingdom where she received her bachelor’s degree in fashion, production and promotion. Later completing her Cache Level 3, shortly followed by her PGCE.

Emma believes in learning through play and creating experiences and opportunities for children to show their individuality. She feels passionate about building strong relationships with children, parents, colleagues and making it a fun and comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy.

Syndi Armstrong

Syndi, from the United Kingdom, is a dedicated Early Years Educator and proud mother, blending her professional expertise with personal experience. Holding a CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare, she is passionate about creating a caring, play-based environment where every child feels valued and supported.

Through fun and engaging activities, Syndi fosters exploration, independence, and confidence, cultivating a lifelong love for learning in young learners.

Tacita Breedt

Tacita Breedt is a dedicated early years educator with CACHE Level 3 and Level 5 qualifications. From Cape Town, South Africa, she brings a rich blend of cultural awareness and a profound passion for teaching to her work. With a commitment to fostering positive and engaging learning environments,

By creating meaningful, inclusive, and tailored experiences, Tacita inspires curiosity, encourages critical thinking, and empowers young learners to become independent, lifelong learners.

Yasmine Pridmore

Yasmine, from the United Kingdom, brings over 18 years of experience in early years education to her classroom. With a background in nursery management, she has returned to her true passion—teaching young learners. Yasmine strives to create a warm, safe, and nurturing environment where every child feels happy, secure, and comfortable.

Drawing inspiration from the Creative Curriculum, she designs engaging activities and learning opportunities that foster play and exploration. By encouraging curiosity and nurturing confidence, Yasmine lays a strong foundation for children to become joyful, independent learners, well-prepared for their future school years.