Meet the Team

Nursery Teacher

Melanie Woodruff

Melanie brings two years of dedicated service to our nursery, seamlessly integrating into our vibrant community from the outset. With qualifications dating back to 2003, Melanie has always been drawn to the early years, finding her niche in nurturing young minds. She finds solace in the innocence of this age group, relishing every opportunity to introduce them to the wonders of the world around them and expand their horizons through new experiences.

"I am captivated by the innocence of this age group and the endless possibilities each new experience brings. It's incredibly rewarding to witness their sense of wonder and curiosity as we explore the world together."

Reception Teacher

Emma Dixon

Emma has been an esteemed member of our team since 2022, bringing with her a wealth of experience and qualifications. With a BA Hons in Early Childhood Studies and a PGCE in Primary Education, Emma has been shaping young minds since 2004. Having resided in Essex for 18 years before relocating back to the North East, she found her home with us at Atkinson Road. Emma finds inspiration in the ever-changing nature of each day in the classroom, marvelling at the incredible capacity for learning within the foundation stage. She values the collaborative relationship between herself, the children, and their families.

"I love the dynamic nature of each day and the amazing learning journey children experience in the foundation stage. It's a privilege to work closely with both children and their families."

Teaching Assistant

Amanda Doyle

With 11 years of dedicated service, Amanda is a valuable member of our team. Holding a Children and Young People’s Workforce Level 3 qualification, she brings expertise in working with children from 0 to 19 years old. Beyond her role as a teaching assistant, Amanda is responsible for the beautiful art murals adorning our school. She devotes considerable time to supporting the needs of our autistic children, ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve.

"Creating art and supporting children in need are both passions of mine. It's incredibly rewarding to see the impact of my work throughout the school."

 Level 3 Teaching AssistantGemma Surley

With over a year of dedicated service to our nursery, Gemma has quickly become an invaluable member of our team. Before joining us, Gemma spent 11 years working in supply at various other schools, bringing vast experience to her role. She embodies the spirit of unity within our nursery, considering it akin to a family where everyone collaborates to create a fun and safe environment.

"The sense of family here is remarkable; it's inspiring to see everyone come together to make our nursery truly amazing."

Nursery NursePauline Williams

Pauline brings an impressive 33 years of experience to her role as a nursery nurse here at Atkinson Road. Over the years, she has built strong connections with many generations of our families and finds joy in now witnessing the arrival of their grandchildren. Pauline believes that our nursery stands out due to the high level of parental involvement, which she considers essential in shaping the school's identity.

"I believe our nursery is special because of the strong involvement of our families. It's their presence and support that truly define our school."

 Nursery Nurse

Karen Lindsay

Karen has been an integral part of our team since the beginning, initially working with 2-year-olds before transitioning to preparing children for the main nursery. Qualified by the Nursery Nurse Education Board, Karen brings seven years of expertise and passion to her role. She finds fulfilment in the diversity of our families, considering them a pleasure to collaborate with. Karen cherishes the dynamic nature of her work, relishing the opportunity to engage not only with the children but also with their families on a daily basis.

"Every day brings new experiences, and I thoroughly enjoy working alongside our families, not just with the children."

Teaching AssistantAmanda Doyle

With 11 years of dedicated service, Amanda is a valuable member of our team. Holding a Children and Young People’s Workforce Level 3 qualification, she brings expertise in working with children from 0 to 19 years old. Beyond her role as a teaching assistant, Amanda is responsible for the beautiful art murals adorning our school. She devotes considerable time to supporting the needs of our autistic children, ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve.

"Creating art and supporting children in need are both passions of mine. It's incredibly rewarding to see the impact of my work throughout the school."