Name: Tonia Jackson-Robson — Founder & Lead Practitioner

I founded Jack and Gill in 2003 and have been dedicated to nurturing young minds ever since. I am a Level 3 qualified Early Years Educator, and over the years I’ve built our setting around my belief that children thrive best when they are given the freedom to explore, play, and connect with nature.

Animals have always been a big part of my life, and I take care of all the animals at Jack and Gill. From goats and chickens to the creatures we find in the woodland, I love showing children how to care for them and how much we can learn from the natural world.

Running Jack and Gill has been more than just a career — it’s been my passion for over twenty years. Watching children grow in confidence, independence, and curiosity through their experiences here is the most rewarding part of what I do.

I feel privileged to have spent over two decades doing what I love most — creating a place where every child feels valued, inspired, and connected. For me, Jack and Gill is about helping children discover that growing minds are truly rooted in nature.

Name: Brian Jackson-Robson

Manager and Health and Safety Officer.

I’m a Forest School Leader (Level 3, Archimedes) with training in both Forest School First Aid and Paediatric First Aid, so keeping children safe while exploring and learning outdoors is always at the heart of what I do. I’m also a Level 3 Early Years Educator, which helps me bring together my love for nature and my understanding of child development.

Before joining Jack and Gill, I spent nine years working in the ambulance service. That experience gave me a calm and caring approach, which I now use every day with the children.

I’ve worked at Jack and Gill for over a decade, and it’s truly the best job I’ve ever had. I especially enjoy growing fruit, vegetables, and plants with the children, giving them the chance to see where food comes from and to experience the seasons first-hand.

I also have a passion for reptiles and tropical fish, which always sparks children’s curiosity and leads to lots of interesting conversations about animals and the natural world.

For me, the best part of this role is helping children discover that learning is everywhere in nature — and that every day outside brings something new to explore.

Name: Lara - Deputy Manager

With over 25 years’ childcare experience and a Diploma in Nursery Nursing, I combine professional expertise with creativity and a love of nature.

A Reiki Master, aromatherapist, and trained Doula, I enjoy leading music, yoga, and outdoor learning sessions that inspire children to grow with confidence and joy.

Name: Nicole - Early Years Supervisor

I am a Level 3 practitioner with over 6 years of experience working in forest schools, and I’m so excited to have joined Jack and Gill’s. This is honestly the most inspiring setting I’ve ever been part of, and I feel proud every day to work alongside such a caring and creative team.

I’ve always loved the outdoors, and my favourite moments are seeing children’s faces light up when they discover something new in nature. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, going to the gym, and spending time with my young family.

Name: Ellen — Early Years Supervisor

I am a Level 2 qualified Early Years Practitioner and am now working towards my Level 3. I first worked at Jack and Gill nine years ago, spending six wonderful years here before returning as our Supervisor.

I especially love working with babies and feel privileged to be part of their very first steps in learning and development. Watching them grow, discover, and form their first bonds is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.

Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and going to the gym — activities that keep me balanced, energised, and inspired.

I’m excited to continue my journey here and to support the children as they grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy in the natural world.

Name: Hayley — Bank Staff

Jack and Gill has always been a special place for my family — both my brothers and my son came here — so it feels very meaningful to now be part of the team again.

Being back in such a nurturing, nature-focused setting feels really special, and I love being able to support the children’s learning and adventures.

Name: Alice

I’ve been teaching in one way or another since 2007. I first trained as a yoga teacher and later qualified as a primary school teacher, working with Year 1, Year 3 and Nursery. My time in Early Years was especially close to my heart.

For the past 10 years, my main role has been being a mum to my two wonderful girls. I’m now delighted to have returned to teaching with Jack and Gill’s, whose ethos truly reflects my own. It feels like the perfect place to be, and I love being part of the team here.

In Loving Memory 

Chilli — Our Forest School Labrador (2007–2020)

We adopted Chilli when she was just 4 months old, and she was with us until September 2020. Over the years, she became the much-loved Grandma of our team, adored by the children and staff alike.

Chilli’s speciality was simply being there for cuddles — offering calm, comfort, and unconditional love. She will always hold a special place in the heart of Jack and Gill, and her gentle presence is fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Name: Maddie — Chief Mischief Maker

Maddie is the queen of digging — if there’s a hole to be made, she’s on it! She also takes her role as doorbell very seriously, making sure everyone knows the moment a visitor arrives. When she’s not busy digging or sounding the alarm, Maddie can usually be found stealing balls from Bella (and looking very pleased with herself!).

She’s a little bit bossy, but always in the funniest way, and her cheeky personality shines through in everything she does. Full of energy and character, Maddie brings endless fun (and just the right amount of mischief!) to Jack and Gill — and the children absolutely adore her playful spirit.

Name: Zoe — Forest School Pug (Since 2018)

Zoe is the comedian of the pack. She’s always switched on and ready to spring into action, barking at anything that dares to move! If there’s a rustle in the bushes or someone walking past, Zoe is the first to sound the alarm.

One of her favourite (and funniest!) tricks is sitting on things — especially poor Maddie, who often ends up squashed underneath her. Zoe seems to think she’s the perfect cushion!

Her biggest weakness? Homemade sausage rolls. Zoe simply can’t resist them and will never say no if one comes her way.

Full of mischief, character, and boundless energy, Zoe makes sure there’s never a dull moment at Jack and Gill — she brings plenty of laughter wherever she goes.

Name: Bella — Forest School Sheepadoodle (Since 2018)

Bella came to live with us when she was just 8 months old, and she turned 7 in February 2025. From the very beginning, she decided she would be our Head of Security — always on patrol, using her sharp eyes and super-powered ears to make sure everything is just right.

But don’t be fooled by her serious job title… Bella is really a big softie! She LOVES cuddles, tummy rubs, and curling up on the sofa for a nap. She’s also a speedy chaser — people, animals, or even leaves blowing in the wind don’t stand a chance!

There’s only one thing Bella doesn’t like… getting wet. So on rainy days, you might see her doing funny little dances to dodge the puddles!

Snowflake — Forest School Chicken (Since 2019)

Snowflake is the tamest of our chickens and is loved by all the children. She will patiently endure being carried around tucked under little arms.

Gentle and calm, Snowflake is the sweetest member of the flock, always bringing smiles.