Margate Early Learning Community

Freya leads the strategic vision of the Margate Early Learning Community, overseeing our work convening local professionals and families to identify and develop ways to improve opportunities and support for families. She has over 10 years of experience working with young people and families, in both education and charity-based roles. Freya believes that every child should have equal opportunities to thrive, from the very start of their lives, and enjoys working with our partners across Margate to ensure this is the case for local families.  

Claire is passionate about hearing the voices of children and parents/carers to improve services for families. As Evaluation and Learning Lead she uses her 15 years of experience in research and evaluation to support MELC’s partners to learn from each other and make their activities even better. Before joining Save the Children, Claire was working with families to make toilets in refugee camps better for children to use. She is now really enjoying contributing to positive changes within her own local community.

Sam joined Save the Children in January 2024, following a successful career as a primary school teacher and early years leader in Kent. She brings with her over a decade of experience and a passion for raising the profile of early childhood, recognising the crucial role it plays in shaping lives. As the Partnership Lead, Sam is looking forward to connecting and supporting local organisations, settings and services in Margate, bringing together a range of expertise to improve outcomes for young children.  Sam also supports the delivery of the Early Years Grants programme, facilitates the Early Learning Network, and provides support to partners delivering innovation projects through the Early Years Community Fund. 

Sonia believes that every child matters and is passionate about helping children get the future they deserve. She considers families the experts of their community and is excited to be developing this role to support those who are experiencing poverty in Margate. Sonia’s aim is to empower children and families to be actively involved in decisions that directly impact them and their community. She has 16 years’ experience working with children and families in local primary schools and is very keen to continue building strong relationships with families, schools, nurseries, local services and community groups to ensure that family voices are heard.