THE LITTLE ENGLISH Team

We are a team of creatives, working together to create educational and entertaining content for young children

jEssica FORREST

Hi, I’m Jessica! I’m an actress, teacher, and the founder of Little English. Little English brings together my passion for performance and my experience as an educator. Whilst living in Italy, I teamed up with Cath and Filippo to bring Little English to life.

Founder & Teacher

CATH APPLETON

Cath is our amazing artist. Born in London, she spent much of her life in Samoa and Australia. Not only is she a gifted illustrator, but she also holds a degree in Information Design, a Master’s in Digital Education, and a PhD in Children’s Literature. Cath creates all of the illustrations for Little English and shares a new drawing every day on Instagram. @drawingaday Follow her—she’s the best!

Illustrator

Music Composer

Filippo ciccioli

Filippo is a brilliant musician and composer from Foligno, Italy. He studied jazz guitar and composition in Rome and also worked as an early years music teacher while earning his master’s degree. Filippo creates all the original music for Little English—and we are SO lucky to have him!

Katy Shimmin

Hi! I’m Katy. I help create the Little English Phonics curriculum and I’m an experienced SEND and EYFS specialist. I hold a BA (Hons) in Primary Education from Manchester Metropolitan University and have spent over 13 years teaching, with a strong focus on early years and phonics. I’ve taught in schools around the world, which has shaped my inclusive approach to education. Alongside my classroom work, I’m also a school music leader, using creativity and rhythm to support children’s learning and engagement.

Phonics Curriculum Developer

Bella Phillips

Social Media Manager

Our Teachers

Kerry bennison

Hello! I’m Kerry, a Mum of two boys under five. Originally from New Zealand, I have a degree in contemporary dance and a background in drama and singing. I’m thrilled to be part of the Little English team, where I get to combine all my passions to support children’s development at such a crucial age.

Teacher, Colne and North Yorkshire.

Founder

Hannah Shepherd

Hi! I’m Hannah and I love being a Little English teacher! I originally trained as a dancer and studied at Laine Theatre Arts before returning home to complete my degree in Dance Education. I’ve been teaching for over 20 years and have experience working with all age groups, though preschool is where my heart truly lies.

As a mum of two, I know firsthand just how important it is to introduce music and language skills at an early age. The impact on children’s development is incredible — and the very best part is knowing they’re learning while having so much fun!

Teacher, Burnley and Padiham

ASH JACKSON

Hi! I’m Ash, a Manchester-based nanny with a passion for all things early years. I’m OFSTED registered and trained in paediatric first aid. Since 2018, I’ve had the joy of supporting little ones through those big milestones—from wobbly first steps to first words. I truly believe that every song, game, and craft is an opportunity for a child to discover something new about the world. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a child’s confidence grow through play, and I love bringing that same energy, warmth, and fun to Little English!

Teacher, South Manchester

want to join the little english team?

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