Our Team

Tonia Jackson-Robson
Founder (Est. 2003) | Level 3 CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education (CCLD) | Over 20 Years' Experience | Passionate About Nature-Based Learning

I founded Jack and Gill in 2003 and have been dedicated to nurturing young minds ever since. As a Level 3 qualified Practitioner, I have shaped the setting around a clear belief: children thrive when they are given the freedom to explore, play, and build meaningful connections with the world around them.

My approach was originally inspired by my own son, who found being indoors challenging but flourished when he was able to learn through movement, nature, and hands-on experiences. Seeing how powerfully he responded to that environment helped shape the foundations of Jack and Gill and continues to influence our ethos today.

Over the years, Jack and Gill has grown into a carefully developed, values-led setting grounded in outdoor learning, curiosity, and real-life experiences. My practice is guided by what I see in children every day — helping them develop confidence, independence and a genuine love of learning.

Animals and the natural world have always been an important part of both my life and the setting. Sharing these experiences with children helps them develop empathy, responsibility and respect for living things.

Leading Jack and Gill has been more than a career — it has been a long-standing commitment to creating a place where children feel safe, valued and inspired.

I feel privileged to have spent over two decades doing what I love: building a setting rooted in care, consistency and a deep respect for childhood.

For me, Jack and Gill is about creating something lasting — a place where children feel connected, capable and ready to grow.

Brian Jackson-Robson
Manager | Level 3 Forest School Leader | Level 3 Early Years Educator | Paediatric First Aid & Outdoor First Aid Qualified | Passionate About Outdoor Learning, Gardening and Sustainability

I'm a Level 3 Forest School Leader (Archimedes) and a Level 3 Early Years Educator, with qualifications in both Outdoor First Aid and Paediatric First Aid.

Keeping children safe while they explore, learn and develop confidence outdoors is at the heart of everything I do.

Before joining Jack and Gill, I spent nine years working in the ambulance service. That experience taught me to remain calm under pressure, think quickly and provide compassionate care—qualities that continue to shape my approach with children every day.

I've now been part of Jack and Gill for over a decade, and it is genuinely the most rewarding role I've ever had. I have a deep love of the natural world and enjoy sharing that passion with the children through hands-on experiences such as gardening, composting and caring for our environment. Growing fruit, vegetables and flowers together helps children understand where food comes from, appreciate the importance of sustainability and experience the changing seasons first-hand.

I also have a particular interest in reptiles and tropical fish, which often sparks children's curiosity and leads to fascinating conversations about habitats, life cycles and the wider natural world.

For me, the greatest privilege is watching children develop confidence, resilience and a genuine sense of wonder as they discover that some of life's best learning happens outdoors.

Every day in nature brings a new adventure, and I feel incredibly fortunate to share those experiences with the children in our care.

Lara - Deputy Manager

25+ Years Experience | Diploma in Nursery Nursing | Wellbeing & Holistic Practice | Music, Yoga & Outdoor Learning

With over 25 years’ experience in childcare and a Diploma in Nursery Nursing, I bring a creative and nurturing approach to working with children.

I have a strong interest in wellbeing and holistic practice, and as a Reiki Master, aromatherapist, and trained Doula, I enjoy weaving calm, mindful experiences into the day. This is reflected in the music, yoga, and outdoor sessions, helping children to feel relaxed, confident, and connected.

I value creating a warm and supportive environment where children feel secure and able to express themselves freely.

Through a balance of gentle guidance and child-led exploration, I support children to develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of joy in their learning.

Anna – Early Years Educator Apprentice

BSc Psychology | Apprentice Early Years Educator | Calm, Nurturing and Child-Centred Approach

I have always had a strong interest in working with children and supporting their development. My degree in Psychology has given me a strong understanding of how children learn, grow and develop, helping me to support them in a calm, thoughtful and nurturing way.

What I love most about Jack and Gill is the outdoor environment — seeing children explore, take safe risks and follow their own interests is incredibly special to be part of.

I enjoy building strong relationships with the children and helping them feel safe, confident and happy each day.

Natalia – Early Years Educator Apprentice

Specialist Diploma in Psychology | Junior Specialist Diploma in Nursing | 11+ Years Nursery Experience

I have always been passionate about supporting young children and helping them to thrive. My background in Psychology has given me a strong understanding of how children learn, grow and develop, helping me to support them in a calm, thoughtful and nurturing way.

I previously worked as an Early Years Psychologist within a nursery school in Kyiv for over 11 years, where I supported preschool children’s emotional, social and developmental needs. I delivered individual and group sessions to help children settle, build confidence and develop harmoniously, while also working closely with educators and parents to better understand and support each child.

My nursing qualification has also given me valuable knowledge of children’s health, wellbeing and individual care needs, helping me to create a safe and nurturing environment for every child.

I enjoy building strong relationships with the children and helping them feel safe, confident and happy each day.

Hannah – Early Years Educator 

Degree in Zoology | 

I have a degree in Zoology and have always had a passion for the natural world, which makes Jack and Gill Childcare and Forest School the perfect place for me. I love helping children explore, discover and learn through hands-on experiences, whether we're in the woodland, investigating wildlife or simply enjoying time outdoors.

I enjoy building positive relationships with the children and supporting them to grow in confidence in a safe, caring and nurturing environment. I'm passionate about encouraging curiosity, creativity and a love of learning, and I'm excited to continue developing my skills as part of the Jack and Gill team.

Maisie - Early Years Educator with QTS

Early Years Degree with QTS | Infant School Experience | Outdoor Learning Advocate

I hold an Early Years degree with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and have two years of experience working within an infant school setting.

I have a particular passion for outdoor learning and believe that children thrive when they are given the freedom to explore, discover, and learn within natural environments. I enjoy supporting children to develop confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning through hands-on, real-life experiences.