Bespoke Support from our Stronger Practice Advisers

Millie Colwey is an early years educator, leader, systems leader and researcher with more than 15 years’ experience. She remains actively involved in practice with children and families, while continuing her work as a DSL and SENDCO. Millie leads her setting, serves as a Local Specialist Leader for birth to three years, chairs a primary school governing board, and works freelance as a researcher, writer, trainer and adviser. She holds two Early Years Education degrees, including an MA Education from CREC, completed in 2025. Her interests include social and environmental justice, child development, leadership and practice-based research for transformative change.

Caroline Kelly is Assistant Headteacher and SENCO at Ilminster Avenue Nursery School, with 19 years’ experience in Early Years education across private nurseries, primary schools and maintained nursery settings. She supports children, families and practitioners, specialising in SEND, inclusion, safeguarding and leadership, particularly in areas of high deprivation. As an Early Years Specialist Leader of Education and English Hub Literacy Specialist, Caroline has helped strengthen practice and improve outcomes. She has led the development of an inclusive SEND offer and is passionate about belonging. As a Stronger Practice Adviser, she shares evidence-informed approaches and supports sustainable improvement across the sector.

Simone Barnes is an Early Years professional with over 22 years’ experience across children’s centres, maintained nursery schools, schools and advisory roles. She is passionate about Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, tackling disadvantage and strengthening birth-to-three practice. Her work focuses on helping practitioners reflect on the experiences created for babies, young children and their families. As part of the Bristol & Beyond Stronger Practice Hub team and a Stronger Practice Adviser, Simone leads and contributes to training, networks and resources. She empowers Early Years professionals by creating reflective spaces where they can think critically, question practice, share experiences and develop their approaches.

Claire Burt has worked with Barnardo’s since 2007, leading and developing early years services across Sandwell, Birmingham, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire. With leadership and management experience, she has managed groups of Children’s Centres and nurseries and now oversees a portfolio of nurseries for the organisation. As Children’s Services Manager, Claire brings expertise in leadership, financial management, safeguarding and supporting children and families in areas of deprivation. She also chairs a primary school Academy Council, providing insight across early years and primary education. Passionate about equity, Claire is committed to ensuring every child receives high-quality experiences and the best possible start in life.

Caroline is an experienced early years professional and passionate advocate for childminders. Having worked as a childminder for nine years, she understands the rewards, challenges and distinctive nature of the role. She holds an MA in Early Years Education, based on research in her own setting, and has worked as an Area Lead and Mentor for the DfE Childminder Mentor Programme. After achieving an Outstanding Ofsted inspection, she developed expertise in children’s centres. Now an Early Years Quality Improvement Lead with Gloucestershire County Council, Caroline supports childminders to strengthen practice. She champions emotional wellbeing, creativity and experiences helping children thrive.