Little Lodge (Yateley Manor Nursery)

Kirsty Cordery is the dedicated and experienced Nursery Manager at Little Lodge Nursery, part of Yateley Manor School. With a career in childcare that began in 1996, Kirsty holds an NNEB Diploma in Nursery Nursing and has spent over 30 years working with children aged 0–5 years. She has been managing nurseries since 2007 and is proud to have achieved three Ofsted Outstanding ratings during her career.

Known for her caring nature, positivity, and unwavering support for her team, Kirsty brings warmth and joy to the nursery every day — always with a smile on her face. She is passionate about creating a fun, interactive, and nurturing learning environment where children can thrive and build strong foundations for future success.

As a mum of two daughters, Kirsty understands the importance of early childhood development both professionally and personally. She is inspired by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives and is committed to giving every child the best possible start.

Outside of work, Kirsty enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and gardening.

Hi, I'm Amy.
I’ve been working in childcare for the past 10 years and hold a degree in Early Years Education. My academic focus was on supporting children with speech and language development, which I explored in depth through my dissertation.

Throughout my career, I’ve taken on a variety of roles—from Early Years Practitioner to Room Leader, and I currently serve as Deputy Manager. I’m especially passionate about supporting children with additional needs, ensuring they have the best possible environment to thrive and reach their full potential.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends and staying active at the gym.

Meet Jess – Deputy Manager (Maternity Cover) & 0–2s Room Lead

Jess is currently our Deputy Manager (maternity cover) here at Little Lodge and leads our 0–2s room with care, enthusiasm, and a deep commitment to early years development. With over 15 years of experience working with children aged 0–5, Jess brings a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for nurturing little minds.

She qualified as a Level 3 practitioner at just 18 and has steadily progressed through her career, spending 7 years as a baby room leader and nearly 8 years in leadership roles. Creating a safe, loving, and stimulating environment for our youngest children is at the heart of everything Jess does.

Outside of nursery life, Jess enjoys staying active at the gym, spending quality time with friends and family, and relaxing with a good Netflix series.

Meet Lesley – Senior Early Years Practitioner
With over 25 years of experience in early childhood education, Lesley brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep-rooted passion for nurturing young minds. For the past 7 years, she has been a dedicated member of the Little Lodge team, where she has excelled in creating inclusive, stimulating, and engaging learning environments.

Lesley holds a Level 3 qualification in Early Years and Education, complemented by certifications in Business Studies and Health and Social Care. Her diverse career spans nurseries, schools, and private nannying—including international travel—giving her a broad perspective and the ability to adapt to various educational approaches and cultural settings.

As a mother of two, Lesley understands the importance of providing a warm, supportive space where children feel safe and inspired. She has a particular passion for supporting children with neurodiversity, tailoring her approach to ensure every child feels valued and empowered to thrive.

Outside of work, Lesley enjoys travelling, running, and spending time outdoors. Her creative flair shines through in her love for interior design, which she channels into crafting imaginative and enriching activities for the children in her care.

Lesley is committed to fostering growth, resilience, and joy in the early years—helping every child unlock their full potential through thoughtful, nurturing care.

Meet Cassie – Room Leader for the 2–3s
Cassie has been working in childcare for nearly 10 years and holds a Level 3 qualification in Childcare. She has a wide range of experience caring for children aged 6 months to 4 years, with a particular passion for supporting the development of 2–3-year-olds.

As Room Leader for the 2–3s at Little Lodge, Cassie loves watching children’s personalities begin to shine and takes pride in helping them grow in confidence and independence. Her nurturing approach and energetic nature make her a favourite among both children and parents.

Outside of work, Cassie enjoys keeping fit—whether that’s at the gym or running around with the children during playtime!

Meet Beth – Nest Room Practitioner
Beth joined the Little Lodge Nursery team in June 2025 and currently works in our Nest Room, supporting children under the age of 2. Her gentle, nurturing approach helps our youngest children feel safe, secure, and ready to explore the world around them.

Beth is passionate about creating a calm and engaging environment where babies can develop at their own pace, building strong foundations for future learning.

Meet Mrs G – Nest Room Practitioner
Known to the children as Mrs G, Mangalagowri works in our Nest Room, supporting our youngest learners under the age of 2. She is currently studying towards her Level 3 qualification in Childcare. After more than a decade in knowledge processing outsourcing, I discovered my true passion for teaching when I became a mother. For the past ten years, I have specialised in Early Years Education within the IB curriculum, supported by a diploma in Child Psychology and a Master’s in Psychology. Originally from India, I deeply value culture and heritage, which shape my inclusive and holistic approach to nurturing young minds. I am committed to supporting neurodivergent learners, closing growth gaps, and fostering curiosity through play-based methods enriched with music, movement, and storytelling. For me, teaching is more than a profession—it is a purpose and a privilege to help children grow into confident, compassionate learners. Beyond the classroom, good humour, travelling, art, coffee, and good food are my go-to activities over the weekends.  I am also an all-time fan of Disney and Marvel movies.

Meet Ruhie – Preschool Room Practitioner
Ruhie is a valued member of our Preschool Room team and is currently working towards her Level 3 qualification in Childcare. She brings a calm, caring presence to the room and is passionate about supporting children as they prepare for their next steps in learning.

Ruhie enjoys helping children build confidence, independence, and curiosity through play-based learning and positive relationships.

Ansu is a dedicated member of our 2–3s Room team and is currently working towards her Level 3 qualification in Childcare. She brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a hands-on approach to her role, helping children grow in confidence and reach important developmental milestones.

Ansu enjoys the busy, energetic nature of working with toddlers and is passionate about creating a fun, nurturing environment where every child feels supported and encouraged.

Meet Sophie – Nest Room Practitioner
I am a newly qualified Level 3 Early Years Educator with a strong passion for supporting children's development and well-being. My childcare training has equipped me with a solid understanding of the EYFS framework, and I’ve gained hands-on experience working with children from birth to five through various placements during my college course.

I thrive in nurturing environments where I can help children grow, learn, and feel safe. My experience across different age groups has deepened my appreciation for each stage of early childhood, and I enjoy tailoring my approach to meet individual needs.

Outside of work, I’m an avid gym-goer—staying active helps me maintain the energy and focus needed to keep up with busy little ones! I’m excited to continue developing my skills and making a positive impact in the lives of children and their families.

We’re thrilled to welcome Katharine to our nursery team as the Preschool Room Leader! Katharine brings a wealth of experience, creativity, and passion for early childhood education. She’s dedicated to creating a nurturing, stimulating environment where every child feels valued and inspired to learn through play.

With her warm personality and commitment to supporting each child’s unique development, Katharine is already making a wonderful impact in our preschool room.

Meet Heidi – Bank Staff Practitioner
Heidi is a Level 3 qualified practitioner who supports the nursery as a flexible and reliable member of our bank staff team. She plays a vital role in covering holidays and sickness across all rooms, ensuring consistency and care for the children throughout the nursery.

With her adaptable nature and warm approach, Heidi is able to build strong relationships with children of all age groups, providing support wherever it’s needed most.