Hello, my name is Naomi Machin.  I have been an Early Years Teacher for 11 years working in both Reception and Nursery classes.  This is my first year working at Freemantle Academy and I am really excited to be part of such a supportive and caring team. I am very passionate about Early Years and the important role it plays in laying the foundations for children's future in education and life beyond the classroom.  The Nursery class is a place full of wonder, curiosity, creativity and joy where the children develop friendships, independence and a love of learning.  

Hello, my name is Laura Allen. I have been a teacher for 10 years and I have mainly taught in Year R, Year 1 and Year 2. Although the majority of my teaching experience has been within Key Stage One, I have a real passion for the absolute magic that is Early Years! Having recently joined the team at Freemantle, I feel very lucky to have the opportunity to work with lots of amazing children in both Nursery and Reception this year. It’s great to see where the children join us initially at the academy and where they leave the EYFS. I’m looking forward to learning lots with the children and learning lots from the experienced Early Years staff members too! 

Hello, my name is Abbie Barnett, I have worked as a teaching assistant for 15 years. I have been at Freemantle Academy for 8 years and have worked in Nursery through to Year 2. I really enjoy working with the children at Freemantle and I am proud to be part of the nursery team. I also work with the children in before and after school care. Prior to working at the academy, I was fortunate to work within the gypsy and traveller communities. 

Hello my name is Bethany Eade. I started a Modern Apprenticeship in September 2022 to become an Early Years Practitioner and feel lucky to be completing my learning journey at Freemantle, as part of the amazing Early years team. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here so far and feel I have already learnt so much, not just from the experienced staff but through the curiosity and imagination of the children. I look forward to all that Freemantle can teach me

Hello my name is Ruby Chan. I am currently undertaking training to become a qualified learning support assistant. I am learning greatly from the amazing Nursery, Key stage one and Haven teams, as well as from other fantastic members of staff at Freemantle Academy. I am grateful to be given opportunities for gaining the invaluable work experience in the school environment. I enjoy working with children as I appreciate their creativity, imagination and inquisitive minds. It is rewarding to see them thrive, engage in their learning through many different activities and become more independent. I feel much comfort that I can have a part in their learning journeys.

Hello, my name is Connie Allen. I am married with 2 children.  I have travelled and worked in the education sector for 13 years and have been fortunate to work in primary schools in both Cyprus and Germany. I have worked at Freemantle Academy for over 8 years now and am a highly skilled practitioner. I am proud to call myself a member of the caring and nurturing nursery team, supporting the children everyday at lunchtime. 

Hello, my name is Amanda Steinman and I have been a teacher for over 23 years, over 15 of which I have worked at Freemantle. I have taught children from nursery to year two, but my real passion is the early years. I love the energy and enthusiasm of the nursery children, as well as the wonder and awe as they discover new things. I sometimes come to teach in the Nursery, which I love because we have a fantastic staff team, amazing children, lovely big rooms with lots of engaging resources, our own EYFS garden and a curriculum which follows the needs and interests of the children.