At Kia Mena, we are proud to have an exceptionally low turnover of staff, ensuring consistency and stability for the children in our care. All of our key teachers are qualified, and all of our staff members are both DBS checked and first aid trained, providing a safe and secure environment for your child.
We take great pride in fostering a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere, where positive relationships among staff are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that the strong connections we share create an excellent role model for the children, helping them develop their own social skills and friendships in a supportive and caring environment.
Senior Staff
Sharon Hudson - Proprietor
I am a proud mother of two grown-up daughters. After traveling and teaching in the United States for a couple of years, I returned to England in 1991 and decided to pursue a Montessori teaching diploma.
Following my passion for Montessori education, I took the next step and opened my own pre-school, Kia Mena Montessori, in September 1994. Over the years, the preschool has moved a couple of times, and we’ve been in our current location since 2001.
I feel incredibly blessed to have spent so many years doing what I love most. Watching the children grow and develop has been a true privilege. I am also deeply grateful for the dedication of my long-standing staff, especially Jane, my manager, who has been by my side since 1999. Together, we’ve created a thriving and nurturing environment for the children we care for.
Jane Jaye - Manager
I’ve had the pleasure of working at kia men's Montessori Pre-school since October 1999, and I’m truly passionate about helping the preschool be the best it can be. I love working with the children, guiding them as they grow, learn, and prepare for their next adventure in 'big' school. It’s also wonderful to build relationships with the parents and be a part of the supportive community here.
I hold a Montessori Diploma and a degree in Early Years, and I’m constantly inspired by the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the children. When I’m not at the preschool, you’ll find me enjoying long walks with my dog, Lola, or spending quality time with my three grandchildren.
Emily Francis – Deputy Manager/SENCO
I joined Kia Mena Montessori Pre-School in September 2016 and, after taking a six-month break to travel in August 2018, I returned in April 2019 as Deputy Manager. I hold a Level 4 Montessori Diploma, and I’m passionate about using the Montessori method to help children become independent, confident, and curious learners.
What I love most about working at Kia Mena is watching the children grow and develop, all while having fun and enjoying the learning process. Outside of work, I’m a proud mother to a little boy and a baby girl, and I love spending time with my family and friends.
Chloe Englefield - Deputy Manager
I started working at Kia Mena in September 2019. I am one of two deputy managers and I have a level 3 diploma in early childhood teaching. I have been working in childcare since 2014.
I hold a Level 3 Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching and have been working in childcare since 2014, including some time teaching in Australia.
I truly enjoy working with children and making a positive impact on their lives. Having a little boy of my own now makes this role even more rewarding, as I see firsthand the importance of nurturing and supporting children as they grow and develop.
Staff
Emma Meads - Teacher
I started working at Kia Mena in August 2021. I have an early years level 3 and teaching assistant level 3 qualification and have been working with children for over 19 years. I love working with children, getting out the glitter and doing arts and crafts. In my spare time I enjoy shopping and spending time with my three grandchildren.
Amanda Hawkins - Teacher
I started working at Kia Mena in January 2022. I have a level 3 diploma in childcare and really enjoy working with children. I really enjoy doing different craft activities with children and love doing their book bags with them and seeing how much progress they are making. In my spare time I like to draw and paint.
Maddie Quinn - Teacher
I began working at Kia Mena in March 2021 and became a teacher in January 2022. I have a level 3 childcare diploma and really enjoy working with children. My day is always different and love getting to know each child! In my spare time I love to listen to music!
Sadie Jordan - Teacher
I started Kia Mena in 2022 and instantly fell in love with the job and the children. I have a level 3 in childcare.
Arina Ghinea - Pre-School Assistant
I am an assistant at Kia Mena and have been here since November 2022. I am currently completing an early years development course and also have a theory of art history and architecture degree. As a mother myself, I love working with children. In my spare time I enjoy reading and spending time with my son!
Chelsea Jones - Pre-School Assistant
I have worked as an assistant at Kia Mena since April 2024. I am currently completing my level 3 diploma in early years education. I love working with children as every day is different, there is always something new to learn and children always make you smile. In my spare time I enjoy reading and spending time with family and friends.