MEET THE TEAM

 KATHERINE HAGUE

Fir Cones Nursery Manager - BEd (Hons) at Liverpool John Moores University.

Kathy previously taught for 27 years in a large Cheshire primary school with over half this time working across Reception and leading the 52 place maintained nursery classrooms. She believes Fir Cones should be an extension of home; a calm, caring family community where our youngest children can blossom through exploring and learning alongside each other in a natural environment.

HOLLY WILSON

Deputy Manager - Childcare Diploma Level 3

Holly has over 14 years experience and has worked with children of all ages since she left school and completed her diploma in childcare. She enjoys teaching valuable skills and supporting children to grow and learn to become the best possible versions of themselves.

JOANNE TAYLOR 

Pre-Prep Room Leader - BA Early Childhood Studies, NVQ3 Childcare

I went to Manchester Metropolitan University and did a BA Hons degree in Early Childhood Studies. After graduating I stayed in Manchester and worked for an organisation called SureStart as a Playworker and then as a Family Support Worker. Where I also completed my NVQ Level 3 in Eary Years Childcare.

I also spent a month in the Philippines spending time with a charity who have a children’s home and support street families in Manila. 

I have been at the Firs since 2010 during this time I have had both my children!

NATASHA MOOREHOUSE

Prep Room Leader - BSc (Hons)  NVQ3 Childcare 

I graduated from Liverpool John Moores University in 2013, with a Psychology BSc (hons) degree. After this, whilst working, I did volunteer work for children's charity's which sparked my passion for working with children. This drove me to pursue a career in Education and I obtained my Level 2 STALS certificate at The Queens School in Chester. In 2018, I joined The Firs School where I completed a Level 3 Diploma in Specialist STALS. I love being apart of the Firs, as it holds many positive values that I admire, such as being a part of a family, which is very important to me.

Jasmin Lowry-Pilkington 

MEGAN ROBERTS 

Seedlings Room Leader - Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education.

After finishing sixth form in 2020, I went on to complete my Level 3 apprenticeship as an early years educator. I gained a distinction pass and I also have a Level 2 in understanding children and young people’s mental health. I have worked with children of all ages, ranging from ages 6 months - 5 years. 

I love working in childcare as I feel like it’s the most rewarding job to help our little ones grow and develop in the best possible ways. 

Outside of childcare, I love to travel and adventure. My most recent challenge has been climbing Snowdon and Scafell Pike, they were both motivating and beautiful experiences. 

HOLLY MURRAY

Pre - Prep Room Leader - CACHE Level 3 in Early Years and childcare 0-4

Since completing my level 3 my passion for childcare has continued to blossom as I have continuously strived to create a warm, stimulating, home away from home type of learning environment. I am dedicated to providing each and every child, as well as their families, the correct support and provision that is right for them. My favourite type of activities to do with the children are where the children are up and getting active as I feel that children learn best when they are able to explore, move around and just have as much fun as possible!

Nicola Moffat 

Nursery Support Worker 

Level 3 Childcare 

Hello, I’m Nicola. I’ve been working with children for over eight years and absolutely love what I do.  I’m now in my final year of a Psychology Honours degree which has deepened my understanding of how children grow, learn, and express themselves. One of the best parts of my job is seeing children come out of their shell and watching their confidence build day by day is incredibly rewarding. I’m all about creating a warm, supportive space where every child feels safe, happy and free to be themselves.

Kelly Jones 

Willows Room Leader 

Level 3 qualification in Children’s Care, Learning & Development.

My name is Kelly and I began my journey at the Fir Cones Nursery in March this 2025. With over 15 years experience working with children between the ages of 1 & 5, I have also gained experience working closely with children that have additional needs. I have my own daughter who is 18 months old so I have a very personal understanding of the level of care required for the age group of children in my care.

I absolutely love messy play and craft activities and feel the children can learn a huge amount from getting messy and creative.

Outside of nursery life I am a huge fan of the outdoors and enjoy getting out with my family whether that be to the park, the beach, the woods, we just love the outdoors. We are big animal lovers too, we have two dogs and a tortoise at home, so we are out walking every day come rain or shine. 

I feel extremely privileged to be apart of the Fir Cones team, and have thoroughly enjoyed my time so far working alongside all staff and children, and I look forward to my further experiences here too in the future.

ANDY COLLINGS

Level 3 Early Years Practioner

I have been working in various roles with children and young people for 20 years, from 

school storyteller, to ChildLine counsellor, and private tutor in the UK and Thailand.

My core values are that of kindness and curiosity which are at the heart of everything I do.I seek to encourage a love of nature, play and creativity through music, craft and outdoor adventures.

History and language are two of my other loves. As a proud Welshman I actively use Welsh in nursery, often singing in Welsh and encouraging the joy of languages from all over the world.

SADIE EVANS

Nursery Practitioner - CACHE Level 3 Childcare & Development

I have worked with children and young people since leaving school and college, where I studied a diploma in Childcare and Education. I adore helping and watching the children I take care of learn and grow.

I have two of my own children at home who are 3&4. We enjoy trips out to the zoo, swimming and spending time with our family. 

NEESHA HUNT

Pre-Prep Practitioner - Level 2 Diploma in Child Development - CACHE Level 3 Teaching Assistant

I have worked with children for over 16 years now and have been an Early Years Practitioner for 10 of those, fulfilling various roles including room leader. In 2024, I qualified as an accredited psychotherapist and became part of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society. During my training I was able to combine new skills with my experience in childcare to assist children in a therapy environment. 

When I am not with the children at Fir Cones, I am at home baking cakes and treats for my family and friends. 

JASMIN LOWRY-PILKINGTON

CYDNEY PHILIPS

Nursery Practitioner - BA (Hons), BSL Level 2

Originally from the USA, I studied in Chicago, Illinois and then moved to Chester after completing my degree. I spent seven years as a Youth and Children’s worker for a church in Chester. During this time, I developed and ran weekly groups for both primary and secondary aged children. I also worked alongside several schools providing extracurricular activities and various assemblies.  I have a passion for British Sign Language (BSL) and do my best to use it as much as I can whilst working alongside the Fir Cones. All three of my children have attended The Firs. 

JODIE MINION

Nursery Support Worker 

Originally a member of the The Firs family through my daughter attending school here, I am delighted to have joined the Fir Cones team as an early years apprentice. I love being part of our small Fir Cones family, learning alongside colleagues and supporting across all the age ranges and rooms. I really enjoy watching the close bonds develop between practitioners, children and their families; all working together to ensure the children have a great start to learning. 

POPPY FLANAGAN

Nursery Practioner

PGCE Early Years Teaching

I started at Fir Cones October 2025. Ive worked with children for 4 years and have recently completed my PGCE in early years teaching at Chester university in which I now hold qualified teaching status. 

I’m very passionate about early years and ensuring children get the best possible start to education. I enjoy play based learning and all things messy play. 

Outside of work, I enjoy going on long walks and baking treats for my family and friends.  

ALISON FOORDE