Who We Are

We’re a team of volunteers with specialist knowledge in Early Years education and SENDCo support. While we give our time freely, each of us is an experienced professional, passionate about making a difference for children and those who care for them.

Our aim is simple: to share our expertise, offer a listening ear, and provide practical support to Early Years settings across North and West Northamptonshire. We’re approachable, friendly, and here when you need us – working together to build confidence, strengthen provision, and help give every child the very best start in life.

Bernie Martin

Chair

Bernie has been a nursery owner since 1990 and is our Chair.

Passionate about Early Years and SEND provision, she loves celebrating the small achievements of the children she works with.

A founding member of NIMP, Bernie believes strongly in sharing knowledge and best practice, and enjoys learning with new people through the training provided by the network.

Specialism: Language, communication and sign language

Qualification(s):

  • NNEB
  • BA (hons)Working with children and their families
  • BSL Level 2
  • Adult Education qualification

Gemma Turiccki

Secretary

Gemma has 14 years in childcare and takes a nurturing, caring approach within her small primary school setting.

She loves to provide a listening ear, an understanding smile and space for children to express themselves – whilst understanding each child is unique and therefore learn in individual ways.

She believes every milestone should be celebrated.

Specialism: Understanding of Complex Needs

Qualification(s):

  • Level 3 – Children’s care, learning and development
  • Autism trained
  • Positive handling (formerly TEACH)

Lorraine Morrissey

Treasurer

Lorraine has 28 years in the profession – and loves her job!

She enjoys working with families from different backgrounds and watching and supporting children to grow and develop.

She says; “It has to be one of the most rewarding careers you can have!”

Through her involvement in NIMP, she is proud to share best practice and meet so many other professionals making a difference to young lives.

Specialism: Leadership / Inclusion

Qualification(s):

  • BA (hons) – Early Childhood Studies
  • Cache level 3 Diploma – Childcare and Education
  • EYPS
  • Enhanced SENDco trained

Abigail Pearson

Training Coordinator

Abigail has been working in Early Years for more than 18 years and loves seeing children’s progress.

She likes to mark the small, yet significant steps and is always proud to have played a part in a child’s developmental journey.

Specialism: SENDco / ASD / Medically complex children / Music

Qualification(s):

  • BA (hons) – Music and Sociology
  • EYPS
  • MA – Education
  • MA – Music

Rachel Martin

Trainer

Rachel is a nursery manager and has been in the Early Years sector for nearly 20 years.

She advocates for inclusion and is passionate about children’s access to the outdoors.

Specialism: Leadership / Funding / Inclusion

Qualification(s):

  • BA (hons) – Early Childhood Studies – Integrate working with children and their families
  • EYPS
  • Forest School Leader

 

Paula Stafford

Trainer

Paula has been an Early Years leader for over 13 years and relishes the joys (and challenges) of helping young children to become happy, confident people.

She loves meeting and supporting new families, colleagues and peers.

Specialism: Early Years All Rounder / Family Liaison

Qualification(s):

  • BSc (hons) – Maths
  • EYT

Michelle Sillitoe

Trainer

Michelle takes a collaborative approach to Early Years, working closely with families to offer guidance and encouragement – ensuring everyone feels supported and involved every step of the way.

Over her 15 years in childcare, she has created a safe and nurturing environment where children can grow in confidence and make progress at their own pace.

Specialism: SENDco and Senior Practitioner

Qualification(s):

  • Cache level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education
  • NCFE Cache lebel 3 award for SEND in Early Years

Hayley Walker

Trainer

Hayley is passionate about suporting and advocating for families experiences difficulties and challenges. including diverse backgrounds and SEND.

With 14 years in the Early Years sector, she has developed a holistic approach to supporting children and helping families engage with multi-agencies that best suit their needs.

Specialism: 

Qualification(s):

  • BA (hons) – Early Childhood Studies
  • Postgraduate certificate in Education
  • EYPS
  • Enhanced SENDco trained

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