Our Team

My name is Diane (Di Di) I am an NVQ Level 3 qualified childcare professional with over 25 years of experience in early years care. I began my childcare journey in 2000 as a childminder, a role I proudly held for 13 years. I then broadened my experience through nannying, including caring for an autistic child, which strengthened my commitment to inclusive, child-centred care. My passion for nurturing children led me back to childminding, this time working alongside my daughter. Together, we developed our vision and went on to establish and grow our own nursery. I am incredibly proud of our business and the safe, supportive, and nurturing environment we provide for children and their families. I am a proud mother of three and grandmother to four wonderful grandsons. Family is at the heart of everything I do, and I love spending time with them and watching them thrive. Outside of work, I enjoy walking with my husband and our dog Mirtle, reading, and enjoying short breaks holidaying especially loving the Lake District.

Hi I'm Gem Gem! My mother and I set up Branching Out Nursery, after I left teaching to pursue our dream of having our own setting. I have a passion for the outdoors and I hold an Early Years and Special Needs Degree, as well as my EYPS and I am a qualified Forest School Leader. I have 3 boys, who always keep me on my toes! I have been working in Early Years for 20+years, gaining vast experience in different settings, including being a private school reception teacher and working with varied ages and backgrounds. It has always been our intention to hold our values of providing a home from home setting, where children are challenged, engaged, get plenty of fresh air and thrive where they are happy, with the support of a caring and attentive adult. All our staff and families are an extension of our family. We love and care for children in our setting, as we would our own.

I’m currently studying for my Level 5 Early Years Educator degree. Born and raised in Latvia, I moved back to the UK in 2007. I’m a mum of two and a step mum, so life is always busy! In my spare time, I enjoy baking, walks, reading, and family game nights. I’m the Room Leader in the Branches group and have been part of the Branching Out team for a while. I love watching children flourish, and the team calls me “Sonic” because I’m always on the move—though my real superpower is speaking four languages!

Hi, I’m Evie! When I’m not at Branching Out, you’ll usually find me outside walking my dogs, watching movies, or surrounded by animals at home. I stay very busy looking after my elderly dog, my very crazy puppy, three rabbits, and my cat - so chaos is kind of my thing! I’ve been part of the Branching Out family since June 2024 and I’m currently at the end of my Level 2 qualification. My absolute favourite part of the day is the mornings, when all the children come running over shouting “EVIEEE!”—it never fails to make me smile. I love being outdoors (especially when it’s snowing!) and I truly enjoy watching the children grow, learn, and become their own wonderful little selves. It’s such a pleasure to care for them and be part of their journey. One day, I’d love to travel to Africa to volunteer in a nursery - or even open my very own dog rescue. Until then, I’m happiest surrounded by children, animals, and lots of laughter!

Hi, I’m Christina! I’ve been with Branching Out since January 2024. I’m a trained horticulturist and Forest School Leader, passionate about the outdoors. I love giving children as many outdoor learning experiences as possible to build resilience, spark creativity, and maybe even find the biggest worm! I’ve lived in Austria and Lapland, where I worked in tourism and learned German and Finnish. Back in the UK, I trained as a primary school teacher before having my two children. I now live in beautiful Sabden and am thrilled to be part of the Branching Out family.

Hi, I'm Rachel. I joined the Branching Out team in June 2025 and I am proud to be the baby room leader. I love being part of the staff family and care deeply about my role. I have over 26 years of experience with child care and have a diploma in nursery nursing (NNEB). I live with my partner and I enjoy spending time with my family, helping out with the farm animals. In my spare time I like to go to the theatre, I love music and a boogie! I also attend a line dancing class during the week

Hi, I'm Katie. I live in Nelson, with my girlfriend and our little cat, Belle. I have been working in childcare for the past 10 years and have achieved both my level 2 and 3 qualifications in early years. I also have experience of working in wraparound from my previous role. I love observing children of all ages grow and learn throughout their years. I have recently extended my training and my role at Branching Out to care for the under 2's 3 days a week, which I love.

Hello! I’m Amber, the cook here at our lovely nursery. I take great care in planning balanced, nutritious menus that support your little one’s needs as they grow and learn. Throughout the day, the children enjoy yummy snacks and nourishing meals and puddings, helping to keep their tummies full for all their fun and adventures. I feel very lucky to work alongside such a supportive and caring team, we truly are one big family here at Branching Out.