Who's who at Wild Sparks
Alice Warren
Wild Sparks Manager / Director
* Child Protection Officer *
I first set up Wild Sparks in October 2013 and I am now Managing Director for all Wild Sparks services. Previously, I have worked as a playworker, education officer and community artist before undertaking Forest Schools training in 2009 and completing my BA Childhood Practice in 2022.
I was lucky enough to grow up amidst woods and farm land, surrounded by space to roam, climb, build, explore and admire - so I know what it feels like to be a nature connected child. I set up Wild Sparks to enable local children to get out into the incredible woodlands on their doorstep, to build resilience and experience the exhilarating freedom of immersive play in nature. Wild Sparks brings all of my favourite things together in one practice: children, nature, free play, creativity and a sense of adventure!
Wild Sparks Manager / Director
* Child Protection Officer *
I first set up Wild Sparks in October 2013 and I am now Managing Director for all Wild Sparks services. Previously, I have worked as a playworker, education officer and community artist before undertaking Forest Schools training in 2009 and completing my BA Childhood Practice in 2022.
I was lucky enough to grow up amidst woods and farm land, surrounded by space to roam, climb, build, explore and admire - so I know what it feels like to be a nature connected child. I set up Wild Sparks to enable local children to get out into the incredible woodlands on their doorstep, to build resilience and experience the exhilarating freedom of immersive play in nature. Wild Sparks brings all of my favourite things together in one practice: children, nature, free play, creativity and a sense of adventure!
Melissa Brown
Nursery practitioner Melissa has over 7 years experience working with children of all ages in a range of early years settings. She loves the outdoors and feels passionate about the importance of play and exploration in nature. Melissa is delighted to have this opportunity to be working in a fully outdoor setting and to grow as a practitioner. Melissa loves to sing and brings a creative energy and lots of fun to our forest! 
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Fiona Leslie
Nursery practitioner Fiona first came to Wild Sparks on her HNC student placement in 2019, we were delighted to welcome her back as a permanent member of the team in August 2020. Fiona is passionate about play pedagogy and helping children lead their own learning. When not at work Fiona spends her time watching and photographing wildlife and enjoying time with her family. 
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Hailey Dalrymple
Nursery Practitioner Hailey joined the Wild Sparks team in April 2023. She has over 10 years experience in early learning and childcare, including training in Forest Schools and therapeutic outdoor practice. Hailey is passionate about nurturing children's emotional literacy and self-regulation skills and is adept at supporting children through transitions and personal challenges. 
Polly Spencer-Vellacott
Lunch Coordinator Polly makes and serves the lunches in the woods every day. She has a background is in botany so feels completely at home out in the woods and enjoys the daily walk into and out of the site. Polly's youngest attended Wild Sparks Outdoor Nursery and she has a keen interest in camping and outdoor pursuits! |
Nikki Edmondson
Nursery practitioner Nikki first joined Wild Sparks in 2018 as a volunteer, when her youngest started at the nursery. Nikki has since compelted her SVQ training and moved on to become a longstanding member of our practitioner team. Nikki brings a creative flair, warm heart and big smile to Wild Sparks and is passionate about creating secure relationships through nurture and connection as the foundation for learning. |
