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Anna has three children.

Prior to her time studying Anna spent 15 years working at the North Devon Journal gaining many skills and qualifications in marketing. After the birth of her youngest in 2013 Anna decided to pursue a career in Education. 

Anna took up a place at Petroc College studying Teacher Specialist Support in 2015. The course provided Anna the opportunity to study a selection of Early Years provisions in Sweden. She witnessed the culture of Swedish Preschools, whereby children play outside at every opportunity, even in the depths of winter they are bundled into their wet weathers, hats and gloves and are encouraged outside. This was the trip that Anna describes as her `epiphany'

 

The trip highlighted how outdoor play had so many benefits for young people and early learners. Being a mother of three in the modern world of games consoles and interactive toys, Anna could appreciate how easy it had become to overlook the importance of outdoor play. Anna also knew at this point that she owned a piece of land that would accommodate such a provision back in Devon.

As part of her studies Anna also spent a year supporting the Head of Foundation, at her local primary school, St Mary's School. This highlighted the need for a before and after school facility for the school of which she has created at Muddy Boots. The placement also provided Anna with an in depth insight into the continuum of education and highlighted the sensitivity of the transition process from pre-school to foundation class.

 

In August 2017 Anna completed her level 7 Early Years Teaching Qualification with the University of St Mark and St John whilst plans were being completed for the school project. Since opening its doors in January 2018 the school has continued to grow and develop through much reflective practice.