Our team.
Manager
Nikki Leseski
Nikki brings over 25 years of experience in childcare to our team, having worked across both nursery settings and as a private nanny. Her well-rounded background has given her a deep understanding of children's needs in a variety of environments. As a mum of two, Nikki values creating a safe, fun, and nurturing space where every child can thrive. She also has a lifelong passion for all things Performing Arts — especially Tap Dancing — and she brings that vibrant energy into the club, where her rhythm, creativity, and enthusiasm are always a hit with the children!
Deputy Manager
Claire Wederell
Claire brings over 25 years’ experience working with children across early years, primary, and secondary education. She currently works in a secondary school, supporting students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, and has a strong background in working with children who have additional needs.
Her passion for inclusive support began when her daughter was diagnosed as deaf, which led Claire to learn British Sign Language (Level 1) and support children on a one-to-one basis.
Calm, creative, and caring, Claire is committed to helping every child feel safe, supported, and included during their time at the holiday club.
Tasha Waller
With five years of experience in childcare, Tasha is a preschool supervisor with a Level 3 qualification in childcare and safeguarding. She has been a valued member of The Hangout team for the past three years, known for her friendly, enthusiastic nature and creative flair. A mum of four, Tasha brings both professional expertise and real-life parenting experience to her role. She’s passionate about helping children grow and learn through play and exploration, with strong hands-on experience supporting children with SEND and a solid understanding of the EYFS framework.
Not to mention she has just extended our Hangout family by giving birth to beautiful baby Brody
Gemma Riggall
Gemma is a dedicated mum of two with over 12 years of experience working in primary education, supporting children from EYFS through to Year 6, including those with special educational needs. She is deeply passionate about children's mental health and wellbeing, and values building strong, trusting bonds with the young people she works with. Gemma finds great joy in supporting children’s personal and academic development — and feels truly rewarded in helping them succeed and flourish in every way.
Nina Mein
Nina has been a dedicated pre-school practitioner at a local setting for over 11 years with a Level 2 Qualification. As a mum to two grown-up children, she brings a wealth of experience, care, and calm to her role. Nina enjoys spending quality time with her family, taking her dog for walks, and baking with her daughter — a passion she brings to The Hangout through fun, hands-on activities. She loves watching children grow and progress over the years, and takes pride in helping them build confidence and skills for life.
Danielle Asprey
Danielle is a mum to twin boys and a daughter, with another little one on the way! She has 9 years of experience working in a preschool setting and holds a Level 3 qualification in childcare. As a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Danielle is passionate about creating a safe, supportive environment for all children. She has hands-on experience working with children with SEND and loves watching each child flourish and develop. Enthusiastic and friendly, Danielle brings warmth and energy to everything she does at the club.
Lynn Curtis
Lynn is a mum of two grown-up children and a proud grandmother to five. After retiring 10 years ago to help care for her grandchildren, she brought with her over 25 years of experience and a Level 3 in Health and Social Care, supporting adults with complex needs, including Down’s Syndrome, the elderly, and those with mental health conditions. A former Scout Leader with a Wood Badge, Lynn is now working towards her childcare training. She loves being part of The Hangout, bringing a warm, nurturing “nan” presence that many children connect with and enjoy.