Our Staff
Nursery Manager/DSL
Lorna O’Leary
Hello, my name is Lorna. I have over 11 years of heartfelt dedication to early childhood education. I am a warm, approachable, and highly experienced manager who brings passion and expertise to every setting I have led. My journey has been shaped by a deep love for nurturing young minds and a strong belief in inclusive practices, especially when supporting children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
I have a comprehensive understanding of child development, safeguarding, and curriculum planning, and I create welcoming environments where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. My hands-on experience with SEN children means I tailor care to each child’s unique needs, helping every child thrive, regardless of their ability. I work closely with families, external agencies, and multidisciplinary teams to provide thoughtful, personalized support.
My leadership style is kind and empowering. I support my team through mentoring, reflective practice, and ongoing professional development, fostering a culture of care, collaboration, and excellence. Whether I am introducing new ideas, checking in on staff well-being, or catching up with parents, I lead with warmth and a child-first approach.
I believe in the magic of early education and find joy in watching children grow in confidence, curiosity, and independence.
Sumiya
Deputy Manager
Hello, my name is Sumiya. I have over seven years of experience working with young children and their families. I am deeply passionate about creating nurturing, inclusive environments where every child feels valued, supported and encouraged to explore the world around them.
I believe it is my responsibility to ensure that all children feel safe, respected and cared for, allowing them to play, learn and grow with confidence. I hold a Level 3 qualification in Childcare, a Level 5 qualification in Child and Family Studies and have completed a Level 3 SENCO course. I have a strong commitment to promoting equality and inclusion for children with SEND.
As a deputy manager, I aim to support and inspire both children and staff, fostering a collaborative, positive atmosphere that encourages growth, development, and a love of learning.
Tazkiya
Nursery Practitioner
Hello, I’m Tazkiya, an experienced early years educator who has worked with young children for the past 3 years. During my time in the field, I have focused on creating a nurturing environment that encourages children to explore, learn and grow. I firmly believe in the power of support and encouragement in a child’s development journey. My approach involves not only teaching but also actively engaging with each child to understand their unique learning styles and interests. It’s a joy to be part of their growth and development. I am looking forward to you joining Busy Beacons to share new experiences.
Aaminah
Nursery Practitioner
Hello, my name is Aaminah! I have just finished my level 3 in childcare. I am passionate about children learning, developing and meeting their milestones indoors and outdoors play. I believe that all children are unique, and all are able to grow and develop. I enjoy watching the children experience new experiences and develop new skills.
I look forward to seeing all the children grow and achieve their best.
Imaan
Nursery Practitioner
Hi, I’m Imaan, I am a qualified Level 3 Early Years Practitioner. I have a strong passion for working with children and being part of their learning, growth, and development. I aim to create a safe, welcoming environment where every child feels confident to be themselves and express who they are. I always take the time to observe, listen, support, and respond to each child’s individual needs, while also working closely with parents to ensure they feel supported and are involved in their child’s early years journey. I believe in leading by example, by showing kindness and respect in my own actions and encouraging these positive values in the children I care for
Kashan
Nursery Practitioner
Hi, my name is Kashan. I’m a warm, patient, and caring person with a genuine passion for working with children. I love creating a fun, safe, and nurturing environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to explore, learn, and grow at their own pace. Seeing their confidence and curiosity develop each day is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
I believe every child is unique, and I always try to bring kindness, creativity, and a positive attitude into everything I do. Whether it’s storytelling, arts and crafts, or outdoor play, I enjoy finding new ways to make learning exciting and engaging.
Outside of nursery, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, and going on walks. I’m passionate about helping children build strong foundations for a bright and happy future, and I feel truly lucky to be part of their early learning journey.
Chante Oduwole
SENCO/DDSL
Hello, my name is Chante, and I am the SENCO at Busy Beacons Nursery.
I bring over 15 years of experience across education, with a strong background in early years, SEND leadership and inclusive practice. I am committed to creating environments where every child feels understood, supported and celebrated for who they are.
I have extensive experience supporting children with a wide range of additional needs and work closely with Lorna, the nursery team, families and external professionals to ensure each child’s needs are identified early and supported thoughtfully. I believe that early intervention, strong relationships and a child-centred approach make a lasting difference to children’s confidence, communication and wellbeing.
I value recognising and celebrating the small but meaningful steps children make every day and feel privileged to support them at such an important stage in their development, as they grow, explore and develop a love of learning.
What I love about Busy Beacons is the genuine warmth, teamwork and shared commitment to inclusion. Together, we create a nurturing space where every child is given the opportunity to thrive.
Key Person Approach
Each child is assigned a key person when they start at Busy Beacons Nursery.
This is a statutory requirement of the EYFS and is a way to ensure that all children and families have one person within the setting with whom they have a special, nurturing relationship.
The approach is based on attachment theory and involves the key person responding sensitively to children’s feelings, behaviours and meeting emotional needs by giving reassurance when needed. The key person will observe your child as they play, plan for his/her learning and development and make assessments on progress.
As part of their role, they are required to share information with you about your child and ensure that your child’s individual needs are being met.
The key person supports physical needs too, helping with nappy changing, toileting and dressing. They will work with you to help you support your child’s physical needs at home. The key person approach is a reciprocal relationship between a member of staff, individual child, and their family.