Helen Latham

Deputy Nursery Manager & Preschool Lead

Helen Latham

Helen joined Rowans Day Nursery in February 2026 as our Deputy Nursery Manager and brings with her over 17 years of experience in early years education and childcare.

Helen holds a CACHE NVQ Level 3 in Children’s Care, Learning and Development and a Level 3 Diploma in Management, reflecting both her strong childcare knowledge and leadership expertise. Her extensive experience enables her to confidently support the operational leadership of the nursery while maintaining high standards of care and education.

As one of our Lead Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL), Helen plays a central role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children within the setting. She is also an Additional SENCO for Preschool and leads our Preschool Unit, working closely with staff and families to ensure every child is supported to reach their full potential.

Helen is passionate about creating engaging, enriching environments for children and works collaboratively with the team to maintain high-quality provision across the nursery.

Outside of work, Helen has a son and enjoys spending quality time with her family. She has a musical background and can play both the flute and piano. She also loves crafting in her spare time, bringing creativity into both her professional and personal life.

We are delighted to have Helen’s experience, leadership and enthusiasm as part of the Rowans team.

Emma Cain

Senior Lead - Nursery Section & SENCO

Emma Cain - Senior Practitioner

Emma has been a valued member of the Rowans Day Nursery team since August 2014. She began her journey with us as an apprentice and, through dedication and hard work, has progressed into her current role as Senior Lead for the Nursery Section and Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO).

Emma holds the Edexcel Level 3 Diploma in Children’s Learning and Development and brings both experience and passion to her leadership role. She is committed to ensuring that every child receives high-quality care, individualised support and engaging learning opportunities tailored to their needs.

As the nursery SENCO, Emma works closely with families, external professionals and staff to support children with additional needs, ensuring inclusive practice is embedded throughout the setting. She is also an Additional Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), helping to maintain the highest safeguarding standards across the nursery. Emma keeps all of her mandatory training up to date, reflecting her commitment to professional development and best practice.

Emma is a dedicated and hardworking individual who consistently goes above and beyond to support the children and families who attend the setting.

Outside of work, Emma is a proud mum of four children and enjoys spending quality time with her family. She loves crafting projects and is also a representative for Oriflame products.

We are incredibly proud of Emma’s professional growth and the positive impact she continues to have within our nursery community.

Rebecca Murphy

Senior Lead – Baby Unit

Rebecca Murphy

Rebecca has been a dedicated member of the Rowans Day Nursery team since September 2012 and has been part of the senior leadership team for many years. Since January 2016, she has successfully led our Baby Unit, providing a nurturing, safe and stimulating environment for our youngest children.

Rebecca holds the Edexcel Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce and brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and leadership to her role. She is passionate about early development and ensuring that babies receive the very best start in life.

As an Additional Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Rebecca plays a key role in maintaining high safeguarding standards across the setting. She is also responsible for overseeing Operation Encompass within the nursery, ensuring that children who may be affected by domestic abuse are supported sensitively and appropriately.

Rebecca keeps fully up to date with all mandatory training requirements and is highly regarded for her professionalism and commitment to best practice. She is also an excellent mentor, providing valuable guidance and support to new team members as they develop in their roles.

Outside of nursery life, Rebecca has an older daughter and enjoys spending her free time shopping and enjoying family nights out.

We are incredibly proud of Rebecca’s long-standing dedication, leadership and the care she provides to our children and families.

Sally Wood

Nursery Cook

Sally Wood - Cook

Sally has been a valued member of the Rowans Day Nursery team since October 2004 and plays a vital role in ensuring our children enjoy nutritious, balanced and delicious meals every day.

As our dedicated Nursery Cook, Sally carefully plans and prepares meals that cater for all dietary requirements, including allergies, intolerances and cultural preferences. She works closely with staff and families to ensure every child’s individual needs are met safely and thoughtfully.

Sally regularly updates her Food Hygiene, Allergen, Safeguarding and First Aid training to ensure the highest standards of safety and care are maintained within the nursery. Her commitment to ongoing training gives parents confidence that their children’s wellbeing is always prioritised.

Outside of the kitchen, Sally enjoys reading, baking at home and having a little boogie whenever she gets the chance — something the team knows brings plenty of smiles to the nursery!

We are incredibly proud of Sally’s long-standing dedication and the warmth she brings to Rowans Day Nursery.

Rebecca Jones

Deputy Manager

Rebecca Jones - Holiday Club Manager Deputy manager

Hello, I’m Rebecca, and I am the Deputy Manager here at Rowans Day Nursery.
I have been part of the Rowans family since November 1996, meaning I have almost 30 years of experience within the setting.

For the past 18 years, I have proudly supported the nursery in my role as Deputy Manager. During this time, I have had the pleasure of watching generations of children grow and develop, and it is incredibly rewarding to be part of their early learning journey.

I hold a Foundation Degree in Early Years Childhood and Education and am passionate about creating a positive, stimulating and caring environment where children feel happy, confident and ready to learn. Supporting our staff team and working closely with families is a key part of my role, and I am committed to ensuring every child receives the very best start.

As a mum myself, I understand how important it is for parents to feel reassured and confident in their childcare choice. Building strong partnerships with families and maintaining a warm, welcoming atmosphere is something I value greatly.

Outside of nursery life, I enjoy spending quality time with my daughter and family, particularly on sunny holidays. I also love cinema trips and eating out, making the most of family time whenever I can.

I look forward to welcoming you and your family to Rowans Day Nursery.

Amy Smith

Manager

Amy Smith - Manager

Hello, I’m Amy, and I am proud to be the Nursery Manager here at Rowans Day Nursery.
I have been part of the Rowans family for almost 24 years (since July 2002), and for the past 18 years I have had the privilege of managing our wonderful setting.

Over the years, I have seen many children grow, thrive and move on to school, and it is incredibly special to welcome back families with younger siblings and even former children who are now parents
themselves.

I hold a BA (Hons) in Early Years Childcare and Education and am passionate about providing a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment where every child feels valued and supported. I strongly believe that early years are the foundation for lifelong learning, and I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of care and education for our families.

As a mum of five, I truly understand the importance of choosing the right childcare provider.
Building trusting relationships with parents and working in partnership with families is at the heart of everything we do here at Rowans.
Outside of nursery life, I enjoy skiing, reformer Pilates and long walks in Sutton Park with my dog. I am also part of the Sutton Coldfield Sea Cadets Unit Management Team and have been involved for around eight years. I love taking part in muddy charity fun runs and supporting local community initiatives whenever I can.

I look forward to welcoming you and your family to Rowans Day Nursery.