The Hardest Decision, the Happiest Choice: Still Teaching, Just Differently My journey from the classroom to Panda’s Play

Hi, I’m Andrea , early years teacher turned play session leader, mum of two, and forever lover of a good 90s/00s boyband (yes, A1, Five and Busted were my childhood soundtrack!).

After over a decade working in the classroom, I made the leap this year to set up Panda’s Play, a warm and welcoming space for parents and children to connect, play, and learn together. It was a big decision, one I didn’t take lightly, but in so many ways it felt like coming home.

Why I Became a Teacher

From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with children but the spark really came from someone very special, my own Reception teacher. I absolutely adored her! She made me feel safe, seen and excited to learn. I remember thinking, “When I grow up, I want to be just like her.” That feeling never really left me.

After studying Sociology at York University, I went on to complete a PGCE in Lower Primary at York St John, specialising in ages 3–7. I was fascinated by how children learn and grow and how much impact those early years can have.

Once I stepped into the classroom, I never looked back. I began teaching Year 1, then moved into Reception where I spent over 10 wonderful years. I took on roles as EYFS lead and phonics lead, and became truly passionate about helping children build the foundations of language and literacy.

There’s something so powerful about watching a child grow in confidence, discovering that they can read, that they are a communicator, and that their words matter. I especially loved using creative approaches like Helicopter Stories to spark imagination and support children’s speaking and listening skills. Those sessions were always full of joy (and a bit of chaos, but the best kind!).

The Hardest Decision

Leaving teaching wasn’t easy. I absolutely loved my job, the children, and the everyday magic that comes with working in the early years. But something in me started to shift.

Like so many educators, I began to feel the pressure of so many parts of the job. I missed the space to slow down and truly be with the children. The bits I loved most, creating engaging environments, connecting with families, supporting development through play were starting to feel squeezed.

At the same time, I was also navigating life as a mum myself. My own children were growing up fast, and knowing my youngest was starting school this year (and oh, I was not prepared for that wave of emotions!)I realised I wanted to be more present, both for my family and for the community around me.

The Beginning of Panda’s Play

That’s when Panda’s Play began to take shape. I wanted to create a space where play is celebrated, connection is encouraged, and both children and their grown-ups feel valued and supported.

My sessions are rooted in everything I’ve learned over the years as a teacher and a parent. They are fun, creative, child-led activities that support development in a natural, playful way. I still want to bring all my experience with phonics, language development, and school readiness into the sessions, but now I get to do it in a way that’s relaxed, joyful, and totally pressure-free.

There’s no rush, no assessments, just the chance to play, explore, and spend real quality time together.

What I’ve Learned (So Far)

This new chapter has already taught me so much. I’ve seen how powerful it is when parents and children come together in a space that’s both playful and purposeful. I’ve been reminded how much learning happens when we slow down and just notice our little ones.

And most of all, I’ve rediscovered the joy that first brought me into early years education in the first place: that sparkle in a child’s eye when they’re fully engaged, and the quiet pride in a parent’s smile as they watch their child grow in confidence. And when they run up to show me what they have made, created, built or discovered, it’s just the best feeling in the world!

Come and Join Us!

If you’re local and looking for a play session that’s fun, friendly and rooted in real early years expertise, I’d love to welcome you to Panda’s Play. Whether your little one is getting ready to start school, or you just want to spend more quality time together in a creative space, there’s a spot for you here. Although we're designed for children from the age of around 2, younger ones are more than welcome, and with you beside them, can get lots from our engaging sessions.

I currently run sessions in Ketton on Tuesdays and Edenham on Thursdays, and you can find out more or book your place via my website: www.pandasplay.co.uk.

Let’s make memories, share the giggles, and celebrate the little (and big) wins together.

With love,

Andrea x