About Us
Hi, I’m Gem, the founder of The Little Den.
I have over 15 years of experience as a qualified teacher after training at the University of Winchester. During my career, I’ve been fortunate to work in a range of roles within schools, including Deputy Headteacher, core subject leader, and student teacher mentor and assessor. I have supported children through private tutoring both locally and for VVIP families in the UK and abroad.
Alongside teaching, I qualified as a Mental Health First Aid Instructor for adults and children. This training has become an incredibly valuable part of the way I support young people, helping me to understand and respond to their emotional as well as educational needs.
One thing that has remained constant throughout my career is my belief that every child deserves to feel supported, capable and excited about learning. Simply being in school isn’t enough. Children need to feel safe, valued and ready to learn in order to truly thrive.
I created The Little Den because I could see that some children need something a little different. My aim was to build a nurturing space that offers targeted support for children who may be struggling, a space that gives teachers confidence that the children in their class are being supported, and a space that reassures parents that their child is seen, heard and understood.
As a mum to two daughters, I also want them to grow up knowing that when you see a problem in the world, you don’t just ignore it. You try to do your bit to help make things better. Creating The Little Den is my way of doing exactly that.
Thank you so much for visiting. We’re so glad you’re here.
Gemma
Head of Alternative Provision
Amy
Senior Teacher
I have 18 years of experience working in education, and I am passionate about helping children grow in confidence and enjoy learning. I began my career teaching art to both children and adults, where I loved encouraging creativity and self-expression. This inspired me to train as a primary school teacher so I could make a wider impact on children’s learning and development.
Since then, I have worked to create engaging, supportive classrooms where every child feels valued and motivated. I currently work with children with special educational needs and disabilities, which I find incredibly rewarding. I enjoy adapting my teaching to meet individual needs and celebrating each child’s progress. Building positive relationships is at the heart of my approach, and I strive to create a nurturing environment where all children can succeed.
Since 2018, I have worked as a teaching assistant and I've truly enjoyed every minute of this rewarding role. During this time, I have gained experience supporting pupils both one-to-one and within the wider classroom. I especially enjoy helping children build confidence and encouraging them to take a positive and active approach to their learning. Building strong relationships with children comes naturally to me, and I always aim to help them feel comfortable, supported, and happy. Creating a warm, positive, and nurturing learning environment is something I care deeply about and take great pride in. I have three amazing children of my own, who are now grown up, which is one of the reasons I enjoy working with younger children so much.