The secret to success in any great organisation is the people!
Our staff team have been carefully selected to provide exceptional care and education for the children at the nursery. Everyone brings a particular skill or energy to the team and everyone who joins us embarks on a voyage of discovery with the children, but also in their own personal and professional development. Our team ethic is very much that we can never stop learning from each other in order to achieve our shared vision, which is of course all about the children. We provide regular support, training and development opportunities for all team members to learn and grow to be the best that they can be.
The Monkey Puzzle Angel Islington franchise is owned and operated by a family business. Geoff & Wendy Kent, and their two sons Richard and Anthony.
Geoff Kent
Nursery Owner
My name is Geoff and I am the proud owner of Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Highbury and Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Angel. I have three sons of my own and have always been a dedicated Father, supporting their care and education to encourage them to be the best that they can be.
I have a particular interest and experience working with personal and professional development, something which underpins the quality of care we aspire to deliver as an inspirational and innovative team of childcare professionals.
In my previous role I was responsible for promoting diversity in the workplace and supporting working Mums with “back to work” advice on home/work balance and general wellbeing during parenting.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- Vice President Sales, Coca Cola Enterprises
- Member of Diversity Council at Coca Cola Enterprises
- Pension Trustee
- Dedicated Father to three sons
Languages:
- English (fluent)
Wendy Kent
Nursery Owner
Baby Care Specialist
My name is Wendy. I am a dedicated mother of three sons and a qualified Nursery Nurse. I have worked in the NHS for over 20 years and have extensive experience working in a special care baby unit at the maternity ward in Hemel Hempstead Hospital.
During my time as a new Mother I worked in a local Primary School as a Teaching Assistant, where I helped with creative tasks and early literacy skills with children of all ages.
I very much enjoy working with children and particularly appreciate the importance of a stable and nurturing environment for the positive development of babies to young children.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- NNEB Qualified Nursery Nurse
- Special Care Baby Unit, Hemel Hempstead Hospital
- Teaching Assistant, Leverstock Green Primary School
- Mother to three sons
Languages:
- English (fluent)
Anthony Kent
Operations Manager
Qualified Early Years Teacher
My name is Anthony and I am from Hertfordshire. I enjoy working in multicultural London as it is a very vibrant city.
I am a qualified Early Years Teacher and love working with children, watching them learn and grow in the Nursery.
I particularly enjoy inspiring young children to take part in music, both as a key area of study and as a transitional tool to engage them in other areas of learning. I like to inspire creativity throughout education, encouraging self-expression and confidence in young children as an important part of their early development.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- Early Years Teacher Status, Middlesex University
- MSc Advanced Music Production, Glamorgan University, Cardiff
- BA Hons Commercial Music, Bath Spa University, Bath
- Grade 8 Saxophone and Drum Kit, Grade 5 Music Theory
- Children’s Piano Teacher
Languages:
- English (fluent)
Richard Kent
Finance & ICT Manager
My name is Rik, I am the most recent member of the family to join the nursery team and am very excited to join in with the adventure!
I studied Accounting & Finance at Bristol University, where I met my lovely wife whilst singing in the choir. Since then I have worked as an
Account Executive at Coca Cola where I was responsible for developing customer relationships and managing accounts.
In my spare time I enjoy dinner parties with friends, and caring for my two best friends, my bunnies, Barney and Bluebell. Like my little brother Anthony, I also have a keen interest in music and can play the saxophone.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- 7 Years experience as an Account Executive
- Coca Cola Enterprises
- Grade 8 Saxophone & Grade 5 Music Theory
- Big brother to two little Kent brothers
Languages:
- English (fluent)
- Bunny (Intermediate)
Francesca Evans
Nursery Manager
Hi I’m Francesca, I’m from Essex and have spent much of my life living and working in England. After earning my degree, I took a year out to travel and teach abroad, but in the end I decided that I wanted to continue my journey and development closer to home.
It’s hard to say exactly what it is that makes working with children so engaging. As well as being so cute and funny, I love watching their skills and personalities develop over time!
Outside of work, I’m a big fan of literature and writing. In fact, one day I hope to write my own children’s book and get it published!
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
- BA Honours in Early Childhood Studies and English Literature
- 7 years experience working in childcare in total
- 2 years experience as a Room Leader
- 1 year of experience teaching abroad
- Qualified in Advanced Safeguarding
Languages:
- English (native)
Simona Sablinskaite
Deputy Manager / SENCO
My name is Simona. I was born in London although my heritage is Lithuanian. I speak fluent Lithuanian and English and enjoy socialising, shopping and travelling to experience new and exciting places.
I am an enthusiastic and highly motivated person who has a very outgoing and friendly personality, I also have many years experience working with young children in a range of settings.
My favourite type of play is Messy play. This is important for children to explore their imagination and understanding of the world. I love to see them discover and explore new materials, helping them to develop their confidence and independence to learn.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- CACHE Level 3 Diploma, Childcare and Education
- Level 3 in Understanding Autism
- 14 Years Experience in Childcare
- Behaviour Management Coordinator
- Designated Safeguarding Officer
Languages:
- English (fluent)
- Lithuanian (Intermediate)
Katherine Sillis
Third in Charge
I have lived in England since I was born on 11th May 1992. I was born and raised in Enfield just outside of London and have worked in nurseries around my local area. I enjoy where I live as there is many things in the local area, for example shops, restaurants and parks so there’s plenty to keep you busy.
I have been working in childcare for almost 9 years with a Level 4 in early years and have experience across all ages. I enjoy helping children reach milestones whether that be taking their first steps or writing their first letter I am passionate in supporting them to achieve this.
What I love most about childcare is that no day is the same, you see different children, parents and activities, every day is a new and its exciting!
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my friends and family going out for dinner and weekend breaks away in the UK. I enjoy traveling the world with my boyfriend and seeing different countries as there’s so many to explore.
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
- 9 Years’ experience in childcare
- Level 4 in Early Years
- BTEC Level 3 in Children’s Care, Learning and Development
- SENDCO Training
- Level 2 in Team Leading
Languages:
- English
Martina Lennon
Room Leader
My name is Martina and I am delighted to be a part of the Monkey Puzzle Team. I have completed my Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education here in London, and I have enjoyed putting my knowledge into practice when working with children.
I completed some of my college placement in a School, but realised my heart was working with younger children. I have 3 years’ experience as a Nursery Practitioner, where I have worked with both Toddlers and Babies. I love getting to know the children’s individual personalities and to know that I am part of their progress and development is so rewarding for me.
I am looking forward to bringing my Creative side to Monkey Puzzle Angel.
I enjoy preparing lots of creative and art activities for the children to enjoy. For the babies, they especially enjoy lots of messy and sensory activities. I am looking forward to observing the children as they learn through play and exploration.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- Cache Level 3 – Childcare and Education
- Paediatric First Aid for Childcare
- 4 Years Childcare Experience
Languages:
- English (fluent)
Kathrin Knoell
Deputy Room Leader
Hi I’m Kathrin from Germany! I moved to England 3 years ago to broaden my horizons. I used to work in nurseries and primary schools in Germany and I also ran a club themed around life in the middle ages in Bavaria!
I have lots of hobbies like painting, travelling, languages and reading. I also enjoy exploring nature and history as well as finding ways to help children explore these areas and develop skills themselves.
When making activities for children, I believe that patience and role modelling with friendship and enthusiasm is important. It’s truly wonderful to see how well children can engage and learn. I look forward to sharing my passion with them and teaching what I can, in as many fun ways as I can think of!
Qualifications, Skills Experience:
- NVQ level 4 (NARIQ equivalent)
- HE Certificate in Linguistics, University of Konstanz
- Over 6 years’ experience in Childcare
- Experience as Au Pair/Nanny.
Languages:
- German (Native)
- English (Fluent)
- Spanish (Intermediate)
- French (Intermediate)
- Farsi (Basic)
Juliana Ferreira
Deputy Room Leader
Hi I’m Juliana from Brazil! I’ve lived in Sao Paulo for most of my life, though I also lived in San Francisco for a while. I love living in big cities where there is so much to do and that’s why I’m now here in London!
In my experience, working with children is one of the most rewarding professions that there is. When you build a connection with a child, watching them grow and develop is very satisfying. I very much enjoy having fun with them and sharing in their achievements.
In my spare time I like spending time with family and friends, or getting to know the culture of the place I’m living in. Things like reading books and watching films are also a good way for me to relax.
Qualifications, Skills Experience:
– Level 3 Childcare
-BA in Business Administration
-4 years’ Experience as a Nanny
-Paediatric First Aid Trained
Languages:
-English (Fluent)
-Portuguese (Native)
Aatiqua Lunae
Nursery Practitioner
Hi everyone, I’m Aatiqua and I have lived and worked in London for my whole life.
In my spare time I love to read- Harry Potter especially! I also enjoy listening to music and shopping. However most weekends I spend time with my family especially my 2 lovely children.
I have always loved working in childcare as I find it so fun and rewarding its almost like getting to be a child again yourself. I love seeing how children learn and pick up things so quickly. Its so fascinating to see them from babies to full grown pre-schoolers.
The best part of working with children for me are the bonds we make with them, its lovely to be able to be part of their crucial learning years.
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
-5 years’ experience in childcare
-CACHE level 3 in children and Young People’s Workforce.
-Mum to 2 lovely children
-Basic Child Protection training.
Languages:
-English- native
Neha Javed
Nursery Practitioner
Hi I’m Neha and I was born and brought up in London. I have never moved far as I like to be close to home.
As well as working with children I love to travel the world visiting new places, listening to music, shopping and watching movies. My favourite thing to do at the weekend is to spend time with my loved ones.
The thing I love most about working with children is teaching them new skills and planning activities to help engage their brain. I also love to learn about all the children’s different cultures and beliefs.
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
- 3 years’ Experience in child care
- CACHE Level 3
- Food Hygiene Training
- Basic Child Protection
Languages:
- English- Native
- Urdu & Punjabi- Native
- French- Basic
Tatiana Filipe 
Nursery Practitioner
Hi I’m Tatiana, I am a native Portuguese speaker but I was born in the UK. I have been studied art, interactive media and then childcare.
I like to draw a lot, so I will be doing a lot of illustration in my spare time and wouldn’t mind even doing a small children’s book one day. I also enjoy watching animated films.
I consider myself a child sometimes as I enjoy their company so much. Children are fun to interact with seen as they can sometimes surprise you the most. I want to help children grow and be the best that they can be!
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
- 1 year experience in child care.
- CACHE Level 2: An introduction to Early Years Education and Care.
Languages:
- English (Fluent)
- Portuguese (Native)
Silvia Fusacchia
Nursery Practitioner
Hi I’m Silvia and I am originally from Italy. I have been living and working in London for 4 1/2 years and I absolutely love it!
I love working with children because there is never a dull day when you are in their company. They are like constant sunshine in my life and I love sharing cuddles and special moments with them all. I am looking forward to seeing the children progress and reach milestones whilst in our care.
In my spare time I like to read books especially fantasy books. I also love to swim and travel the world. I love to travel so I can meet new people and discover new cultures. I am looking forward to learning about the different cultures of all our children.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- 3 years’ experience working as a nanny with babies and toddlers.
- Diploma of technical social Services
- Safeguarding training
- Supporting 0-2 year olds NDNA Training
Languages:
- English- fluent
- Italian-Native
Lauren Killingback
Nursery Practitioner
Hi I’m Lauren and I love working at MPA especially in the baby room. I have worked and lived in London my whole life and have worked in childminding for around 10 years. I love working and living in London as it’s always so busy and exciting with stuff always going on.
In my spare time I enjoy going to the cinema, out for dinner and spending time with my two daughters going to parks, swimming, farm, zoo just exploring London and the many great things to do here.
I love working with children and watching them learn and getting their own little personalities. I enjoy helping them and encouraging them to explore new things and have lots of fun while learning.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- 10 Years’ experience in Childcare
- Cache Level 3 in children and Young people’s workforce
- Paediatric First Aid
- Mother of 2 lovely children!
Languages:
- English- native
Juliana Ferreira 
Nursery Assistant
Hi I’m Juliana from Brazil! I’ve lived in Sao Paulo for most of my life, though I also lived in San Francisco for a while. I love living in big cities where there is so much to do and that’s why I’m now here in London!
In my experience, working with children is one of the most rewarding professions that there is. When you build a connection with a child, watching them grow and develop is very satisfying. I very much enjoy having fun with them and sharing in their achievements.
In my spare time I like spending time with family and friends, or getting to know the culture of the place I’m living in. Things like reading books and watching films are also a good way for me to relax.
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
- Studying Level 3 Childcare
- BA in Business Administration
- 4 years’ Experience as a Nanny
- Paediatric First Aid Trained
Languages:
- English (Fluent)
- Portuguese (Native)
Robyn Little
Room Leader
Hi I’m Robyn, I’ve lived in London most of my life and though my time spent in Birmingham was a great experience, it’s good to be back in my home city!
I’m a very active person and I love being outdoors; my hobbies include swimming, climbing, kayaking and dancing. I like bringing all my energy and enthusiasm to the children, because they can always match your positivity and watching them get active is a real joy!
When working with children, the thing I like the most is the bonds you develop with them and how much of a positive impact this can have on the children.
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
- 3 Years’ Experience in Childcare.
- CACHE Childcare Level 3.
- Diploma in Childhood Culture and Education from the University of Birmingham.
Languages:
- English (Native)
Jemima Panda
Deputy Room Leader
Hi I’m Jemima and I’m really happy to be working at Monkey Puzzle Angel. I recently completed my bachelor’s in childhood studies and now I’m excited to be really involved with the learning and development of the children.
I’m passionate about progress, in my personal life, I love going to the gym, either by myself or with my sister, because I get a real sense of progression out of it. I also enjoy watching how children progress in the right environments.
I myself have 2 nieces and a nephew who I love dearly; I especially like watching them play and explore the world.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- BA (Hons) Childhood Studies
- BTEC Health and Social Care (Level 2&3)
- Paediatric First Aid Trained
- Level 2 in Food Hygiene
Languages:
- English (native)
- French (intermediate)
- Lingali (intermediate)
Narinder Kaur
Nursery Practitioner 
Hi my name is Narinder and I’m from India! I was raised in India, but I came to London 18 years ago when I got married. I’m fond of London and enjoy the multiculturalism and diversity of this city.
I love children and I have two wonderful daughters of my own. I enjoy spending time with my family and making dresses for my daughters. I also like to cook or do artistic activities with them.
I find working with children to be incredibly rewarding. Children are always learning new skills and as an adult, you can help them so much with your support and encouragement.
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
- CACHE Level 3 Early Years Educator
- 2 years’ Experience in Childcare
- Level 2 food safety and catering
- Paediatric First Aid Trained
Languages:
- Hindi (native)
- Punjabi (native)
- English (fluent)
Kim Jones
Nursery Practitioner
I was originally born and previously lived in the UK until I was 5 years old and then moved to Ireland with my mother to a little village in north Cork called Doneraile. Doneraile is known best for its Georgian style buildings and a beautiful park that has now been rated one of the top ten places to visit in Ireland.
When I left school at the age of 17, I started my career as a hairdresser, but I always felt that something was missing in my life. Hairdressing was always just a job to me and I never felt like I had passion for it. When I qualified I finally move to the UK in 2017, I knew this was the right time to start my new career in what I’ve always wanted to do and was passionate about which was working with children. I found such great pride in been able to take part to support children’s learning.
In my spare time I love to keep fit by going to the gym regularly and walking in my local park with my 3 amazing dogs when I go home to Ireland. I enjoy socialising with friends and shopping. In 2016 I completed a sky dive at 10ft to raise money for a charity called Friedreichs Ataxia.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- Sister to 6 siblings!
- Studying CACHE Level 2: Early Years Education
- Pediatric first aid trained
- Food hygiene
- Basic safeguarding
Languages: - English (Fluent)
Sahro Osman 
Nursery Practitioner
Hi I’m Sahro and I am originally from Somali. I think Somali is one of the best places on earth especially when you look and the nature and weather. I moved to the UK because there is much more peace here.
In my spare time I like to read, visit historic places and to go for walks through all of London’s green parks.
Working with children is rewarding and motivational for me. I love helping children to achieve their full potential and develop positive behaviour through play. I enjoy making a difference in a child’s life to create a happy environment and secure bond with them.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- 6 years’ experience in childcare
- Cache level 3 diploma in Early years workforce.
- Paediatric First Aid
- Degree in Nursing
Languages:
- English- fluent
- Somalian- native
- Arabic- Basic
Emma Milne
Room Leader
Hi, my name is Emma and I’m from Essex. I’m an energetic sociable person who enjoys meeting new people, tackling new challenges and seeing new places! Just in 2016 I travelled to Tel Aviv (Israel), Zante (Greece) and Rome (Italy).
In the nursery, I’m passionate about making a positive difference in the children’s experience. To me, it’s really important to earn the trust of a child so they can feel comfortable playing with you. When a child is comfortable you can turn almost every moment of their day into a positive learning experience for them.
My favourite part of childcare is finding creative ways to spark the children’s imagination and curiosity, by using my own to make fun and amazing activities!
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- Diploma in Montessori Pedagogy
- 2 years experience in an OFSTED ‘outstanding’ Primary School in reception and Nursery
- BSc (Hons) in Sociology
- Experience in Behaviour management and with English as an additional language (EAL) children.
Languages:
- English (native)
Aga Wendykowska
Deputy Room Leader 
Hi I’m Aga, from Poland! I came to London to challenge myself to develop further as a childcare professional. After completing university, I worked with children in Greece and Croatia before settling in London.
Working with children is fantastic because of the progression that you can enable. Helping children to learn while playing is an incredibly positive and uplifting experience; I always enjoy watching their knowledge and creativity develop.
In my spare time, I enjoy reading, cooking, cinema and choir singing. I also greatly enjoying travelling and exploring new cities and cultures!
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
- QTS (BA in Pedagogy)
- Masters in Pedagogy
- Experience in a variety of childcare roles (including Room Leader Role)
- Paediatric First Aid Trained
Languages:
- Polish (Native)
- English (Fluent)
Sandra Senkute
Nursery Practitioner
My name is Sandra and I am delighted to be a part of the Monkey Puzzle Team. I have completed my Level 3 Diploma in Childcare. I enjoy working with children and am deeply passionate about my job. When I was younger, I lived in Lithuania and then moved to the UK.
I enjoyed reading, researching, playing golf, shopping, and eating out. In my spare time in enjoy going to restaurants with my family and friends.
I love working with children because I enjoy teaching children and helping them achieve new goals. I love helping children to learn through their interest and allowing them to experience everything and becoming independent.
I am really looking forward to building a bond with all the lovely children and families.
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
– Level 3 – Childcare and Education
– basic Safeguarding training
– 4 Years Childcare Experience
Languages:
– English
– Lithuanian – (native language)
Ana Diaz
Nursery Practitioner
Hi I’m Ana and I am originally from Spain. I grew up in Toledo which was a fantastic green environment full of nature. My favorite thing to do is play different sports. The one I love most is handball as I was playing for 8 years.
After playing I then went onto coach which was a great experience too. Whilst at university I become confident with my English and it was during this time that I decided to move to
London. The thing I love about working with children is that they are always looking for your help and love and enjoying being able to give them this through learning. They make life better so my goal in educating them is to give back to them my best self so they can learn and grow in my care.
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
-2 Years in Childcare
– Primary Education Degree
– Basic Safeguarding &Child Protection
– Food Hygiene
Languages:
– English- Advance
– Spanish- Native
Sheena Etheve
Nursery Assistant/SEN Support
I lived in Italy since I was 5 with my family. At the age of 23, I decided to move to the UK. One day whilst spending time with my young nephew I realized it was my dream job. So I started my career in working with children.
I have a range of experience in working with children including being a Private Nanny, a Nursery Practitioner, a Supervisor for a Breakfast and After-school club and working 1:1 with SEN children.
Children spread happiness. I like being a part of supporting children in feeling confident in themselves and creating activities to challenge them.
I would consider myself as an artistic person. In my spare time I really enjoy drawing, and making statues using clay and paint.
Qualifications, Skills &Experience:
- 5 Years’ Experience Working in the Childcare Industry
- Level 2 & 3 Playwork
- The Complete SEND Diploma Level 4
- Promoting Play & Interaction for Children with SEN & Disabilities
Languages:
- English (Fluent)
- Italian (Native)
Evelyn Obeng
Nursery Chef
My name is Evelyn and I’m so happy to be working here at Monkey Puzzle Angel. I spent roughly 14 years as a chef in a gentleman’s club and another 15 working in nurseries.
Working with food and children is a great combination for me! I get to do what I love without spending all day in a hot kitchen, and I get to see the smiles on the children’s faces at meal times, when you might see me bringing out my food trolley to serve our esteemed guests.
My third passion is music, whether I’m listening to it at work, relaxing at home or going dancing! But my favourite thing is seeing how the children learn and grow throughout their time at the nursery. I like to feel like a part of that journey by cooking healthy food that makes them smile and helps them grow every day!
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
- 29 years total of professional cooking
- Level 2 Emergency First Aid (QCF)
- Level 2 Food Safety in Catering
- ‘Healthy Menus, Healthy Children’ training
Languages:
- English (fluent)
Lynda David
Assistant Chef
I have always lived in London but I also enjoy travelling to different countries around the world as well as the West indies where I am from.
In my spare time I enjoy keeping fit at the gym, but as any gym my favourite part in the sauna.
I have worked with children ages 0-18 for over 20 years. I have enjoyed helping them learn about healthy eating and doing cooking activities with the children.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
-Level 3 in Food Hygiene.
– 22 years total of professional cooking.
-Safeguarding training.
-First aid training.
Languages:
-English (Fluent)
