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Our Story

Rooted in love, growing with purpose

Twelve years of nurturing young minds, building lasting friendships, and partnering with families to give every child the extraordinary start they deserve.

OUR STORY

From one oak tree to a flourishing community

Tiny Oaks was founded in 2012 by early childhood educator Eleanor Hart, who believed that children flourish when they feel deeply safe, seen, and free to explore. What began as a small playgroup beneath a centuries-old oak tree in Greenfield Village has grown into a beloved community of 320+ families.

Our philosophy remains unchanged: every child is born curious, capable, and full of wonder. Our role is to protect that wonder while gently building the skills and confidence they’ll carry for life.

2012

Founded

320+

Families Served

98%

Parent Satisfaction

Tiny Oaks founding story
What We Believe

Our four core values

Warmth First

Every interaction begins with love. We believe secure emotional attachment is the foundation of all great learning.

Curiosity-Led

Children are natural scientists and storytellers. We follow their lead, designing experiences that honour their innate desire to discover.

Transparency

Families are partners, not passengers. Open communication, daily updates, and an always-open-door policy are non-negotiable.

Nature-Rooted

Our garden, oak grove, and outdoor classroom keep children connected to the living world — grounding them as they grow.

Our Team

Meet the People Behind Tiny Oaks

Our dedicated team of qualified educators brings passion, expertise, and genuine care to everything they do.

Eleanor Hart, Founder
Founder

Eleanor Hart

Founder & Head of Early Years

With over 18 years in early childhood education, Eleanor founded Tiny Oaks to create a nurturing space where every child feels valued. She holds a Masters in Early Childhood Studies and is a passionate advocate for child-led learning.

“Every child deserves a space where curiosity is celebrated.”
Priya Sharma, Lead Educator

Lead EYFS Educator

Priya Sharma

Priya brings warmth and creativity to every session. Specialising in sensory play and language development, she has a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care.

“Play is the work of childhood.”
James O'Brien, Senior Practitioner

Senior Nursery Practitioner

James O’Brien

James is our outdoor learning champion. He designs our forest school activities and nature-based curriculum, holding a Forest School Level 3 qualification alongside his CACHE Level 3 in Childcare.

“Nature is the best classroom.”
Sophie Nguyen, SENCO Lead

Inclusion & SENCO Lead

Sophie Nguyen

Sophie ensures every child’s unique needs are met with compassion and expertise. She is our Special Educational Needs Coordinator, with specialist training in autism-inclusive practice.

“Inclusion means every child belongs.”

Come and see us — you are always welcome

The best way to understand the Tiny Oaks difference is to experience it. Book a tour and meet our team.

Book a Tour →