Renaissance Nurseries (Armley)

Meet Aicha!

Aicha is the Founder and Ofsted Registered Person at Renaissance Nurseries. Originally from Guinea in West Africa, she speaks five languages and brings a rich cultural background to our nurseries. Aicha is passionate about giving every child a voice and believes that all children deserve the very best start in life. With more than 18 years of experience working with children, she has developed extensive knowledge and expertise in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. She combines this with her childcare qualifications, professional training, and love for education, cultures and children to create nurturing and inspiring environments where every child can thrive.

Her studies in Social Sciences, African Literature and Philosophy, and Business Management, alongside her teaching qualifications, have shaped her vision for Renaissance Nurseries, a place where children are supported, celebrated, and given the foundations to achieve their full potential in a safe, rich, and multicultural environment where all children are welcomed and included.

Meet Emma!

Emma is our Area Manager at Renaissance Nurseries and brings extensive experience in early years leadership. Emma has recently completed her Level 7 in leadership and management and is currently studying towards her Master's in the same field. With over 25 years in the childcare and education sector, and several years as an Ofsted Inspector, she offers exceptional insight into quality, safeguarding, and best practice.

Emma is deeply passionate about safeguarding and is committed to ensuring that every child in our care is safe, supported, and able to thrive. She leads safeguarding across our nurseries, guiding staff to uphold the highest standards of practice and compliance.

In her role, Emma mentors and supports our nursery teams, oversees staff training and professional development, and works closely with families to build strong, trusting partnerships. Through her leadership, Renaissance Nurseries will continue to provide safe, nurturing, and inspiring environments where children can learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

Meet Julija!

Julija is our Branch Manager at Renaissance Nurseries. Originally from Latvia, she speaks Russian and Latvian. Julija is an extremely passionate and dedicated member of our Leadership Team. Her journey with us from a parent to a professional gives her a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the trust families place in us. Before joining us, she gained valuable experience as a Primary School Teaching Assistant while studying for her Education Degree at Leeds University.
Julija has a strong understanding of how to support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, ensuring that every child is included, nurtured, and given the opportunity to thrive. She is especially passionate about outdoor play and firmly believes that real-life experiences are essential to children’s learning and development. She works hard to create safe, engaging, and stimulating environments where children can explore, discover, and grow in confidence.

Her warm and approachable nature makes her a strong role model for both staff and children. Julija’s commitment, knowledge, and care make her an invaluable part of Renaissance Nurseries, and her leadership continues to help us provide the very best start in life for every child.