We have a team of highly experienced and dedicated staff members, all trained to Level 3 or above. You can find out more about each of them here.
Sam Dexter – Manager
My name is Sam Dexter and I have been the Leader and now Manager of Belton Playgroup since 2007.
I have seen many changes over the 16 years and am proud of how we have grown from a couple of mornings per week for 2 ½ to 4 year-olds to 42 hours of childcare for ages 18 months to 11 years.
I have worked in Childcare for 36 years and have a Foundation Degree in Children and Young People’s Services, Level 2 in Understanding Autism and in Children and Young People’s Mental Health. I am also a Mental Health First Aider.
I have been a Special Educational Needs Coordinator for over 20 years.
I live with my husband Ted, and we have 4 children who all have their own homes and are busy making their way in the world. I am a Grandma to baby, Teddy too.
I love Pilates, Open Water Swimming and walking. I also love to read and listen to podcasts.
Becky Swann – Deputy Manager
Hi my name is Becky and I’ve worked at Belton Playgroup since 2014.Vanessa Cook – Second Deputy and Designated Safeguarding Lead
Hi, my name is Vanessa and I have worked at Playgroup for 15 years. I am BTEC Level 3 trained. I have my first aid certificate, safeguarding and food and hygiene.
I have worked in childcare for over 30 years, working in nurseries, afterschool clubs and for a charity.
I live in Shepshed with Mark and our 3 children Kieran, Riley and Rhianna. I enjoy going for walks and bike rides with my family. I love going on holiday, especially going to the seaside.
Jo-Anne Webber – Communication & Language Support
Hello, my name is Jo-Anne but everybody calls me Jo. I have lived in Belton since 1992. I am married to Steve and we have 2 grown up girls, Abigale and Nicole. My dad lives in Skegness so we have lots of visits to the seaside; I also enjoy going abroad.
I have worked at Belton Playgroup since 2001 and I am the communication support lead. I am level 3 trained in childcare and also first aid and safeguarding trained.
Leah Butlin
My name is Leah Butlin. I am a qualified Level 3 Early Years Educator. I have completed courses/training for ADHD Awareness, First Aid, Safeguarding, Food and Hygiene.
I have worked in childcare for 5 years. I helped my mum in 2020 with her child-minding business. In March 2021, I started working at Belton Playgroup! I enjoy working with children, watching them grow, listening to their ideas, and helping them to achieve their goals!
I live in Atherstone with Jonathan. I enjoy going for walks, spending time with my family, and being creative! I like to make personalised gifts and cuddlies in my spare time!
Lauren Langley
Hello, my name is Lauren. I have 2 childrem, Tyler who is at school and Evee, who attends playgroup. I enjoy spending time with Tyler and Evee, making lots of memories. I also really enjoy being outdoors and going on dog walks.
I started playgroup in December 2025 and qualified as a Early Years teacher back in 2014. After having a break from childcare for a few years, I am now back and excited to work with children again and watch them flourish.
Lisa Emerson
I am delighted to be joining the playgroup team, bringing with me valuable experience from working at the local school. I have nearly completed my Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification and have recently passed my Paediatric First Aid qualification. I already have a special connection with the playgroup, as all three of my children attended.
Outside of work, I enjoy walking my dogs, biking, and watching my children play football.