Angela
Owner/Manager
I am the owner of Kirkhillgait Nursery, with over 31 years of extensive experience in early years education and childcare. I have progressed through a range of roles within the sector, including Practitioner, Senior Practitioner, Manager, and Owner. This progression has enabled me to develop a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of safeguarding, leadership, daily practice, and the operational responsibilities required to run a safe, high-quality early years setting.
I am fully qualified to degree level, holding Level 2, 3 and 4 in education qualifications, as well as a BA in Childhood Practice, and a Trainer and Assessor award. I am one of the designated Child Protection Officer and take overall responsibility for safeguarding and child protection at Kirkhillgait Nursery. I am fully committed to ensuring the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of all children, families, and staff, and to maintaining a culture where safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Safeguarding practice at Kirkhillgait Nursery is robust, proactive, and embedded across all areas of the setting. I ensure that policies and procedures are clear, up to date, and fully understood by staff, and that all safeguarding concerns are identified, recorded, reported, and followed up appropriately in line with current guidance and legislation. I provide ongoing support, supervision, and training to staff to ensure they are confident, knowledgeable, and vigilant in recognising and responding to concerns.
Children’s safety, emotional wellbeing, and learning remain central to my practice. I am passionate about creating a secure, nurturing, and inclusive environment where children feel safe, valued, and able to thrive. I also place strong emphasis on partnership working with families and external agencies to ensure the best possible outcomes for every child
Jackie Love
Deputy Manager
My name is Jackie Love, and I am the Deputy Manager here at the nursery. I have worked in the childcare sector for over 35 years, holding a variety of roles that have given me a deep understanding of children’s development, care, and education. I am truly passionate about supporting children to feel safe, confident, and inspired as they learn through play.
I hold a range of professional qualifications, including PDA Level 9 Childhood Studies, SVQ Level 4, NVQ Level 3 Childcare and Education, and a Diploma in Preschool Practice. I am also Child Protection Officer trained, ensuring the highest standards of safeguarding and wellbeing for every child in our care. My long-standing commitment to childcare comes from a genuine love of helping children and families thrive.
Nicole Lawniczak
Nursery Team Leader
My name is Nicole and I am the Nursery Team Leader at Kirkhillgait Nursery. I have 14 years’ experience in childcare and hold a Level 3 qualification. I am fully trained in child protection and first aid for both children and adults.
I am passionate about children’s development and believe every child should be supported to grow, learn and thrive to their fullest potential, giving them the very best opportunities from the start of their Nursery journey. I value open communication with families and work in partnership to support their child’s learning and development. I work closely with our management team to support the day-to-day running of the nursery, while also overseeing all four playrooms. I work alongside staff and children on a daily basis, ensuring a consistent, caring, nurturing environment where everyone feels supported, guided and valued.
24
Elise Dolan
I am a qualified Early Years practitioner with experience in childcare since 2019. I hold an SVQ Social Services- Children and Young People Level 7 and I am currently working towards my SVQ Level 9 qualification to continue strengthening my professional practice.
I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where every child feels supported to learn and grow. I find it especially rewarding to see children thrive in my care and develop confidence, independence and curiosity.
I particularly enjoy supporting learning through outdoor experiences and messy play, encouraging children to explore, be creative and learn through hands-on activities.
Sara Sadiq
24
Sara is a dedicated Early Years apprentice Practitioner with experience working in both nursery and primary school settings across East Renfrewshire and South Lanarkshire.
She holds a BA in Childhood Studies and is passionate about supporting young children’s learning, development, and wellbeing.
Sara values creating a nurturing, safe, and engaging environment where every child feels confident to explore, learn, and thrive and feel loved and cared for.
Keira Panther
22
My name is Keira Panther and I am 22 years old. I currently work in the 2-3 room. I am a caring and enthusiastic Early Years Practitioner who is passionate about supporting young children during their early development. I enjoy creating a nurturing, fun and safe environment where children feel happy, secure and confident to explore through play.
Elisa Panfili
18
Hi, I’m Elisa Panfili and I work in the 2-3 room as a qualified practitioner! I am 18 and have worked in childcare for 2 and a half years helping to provide a warm, nurturing environment for children to grow and develop in. I have worked with all age groups and have gained a lot of valuable experience from this.
Rachel Millar
25
Hi, I’m Rachel. I’m 25 years old and have been working in nurseries since I was 17. In 2018 I completed my apprenticeship in Social Services (Children and Young People) through Childcare Management. Throughout my career, I have always worked within the Baby Room, as it is truly my favourite place to be. I am passionate about supporting babies in their earliest stages of development and creating a calm, nurturing environment where they feel safe and loved. I feel so lucky to play a part in such an important stage of their lives and create special bonds with all families.
Kay Gibson
32
Hi, I’m Kay. I’m 32 and a proud mum to one little boy who also attends the nursery. I started off in the nursery office, but I now work directly with the children, which I absolutely love. I’m currently working towards my Level 3 qualification to build on my skills and knowledge. I’m caring and passionate about helping children learn and grow, and I always bring a warm and positive attitude to my role.
Simran Kaur
25
My name is Simran Kaur, and I am a 25-year-old Early Years Practitioner and Room Leader in the 3–5 room. I hold a BA (Hons) in Childhood Studies (Level 10) and have always been passionate about working in childcare. Supporting children during the early years is incredibly rewarding, and I enjoy creating inclusive, open-ended learning experiences that encourage curiosity, creativity, and independence. My goal is to provide a warm and engaging environment where every child feels valued, supported, and confident to explore the world around them.
Every day in early years is different, full of laughter, learning, and plenty of imagination — and while I may be the room leader, the children definitely keep me on my toes!
