Our Philosophy
At Sensory Nest, we believe the people in the room matter as much as the room itself. Every teacher, coach and therapist who works here brings genuine deep care and a shared commitment to helping children grow. We are proud to offer qualified childminders to Newmarket families within a setting that feels like home.
Qualified Teachers and Childminders
The daily life of Sensory Nest is shaped by a close-knit team of qualified teachers and Ofsted-registered childminders. Every member brings formal education and training, real-world experience across a range of settings, and a genuine love for working with young children.
We work within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, ensuring every child receives structured, age-appropriate support across all areas of their development. All members of our teaching team hold current safeguarding certificates and paediatric first aid qualifications, so you can be confident your child is in safe, prepared hands every single day.
Together, we create a warm, purposeful environment rooted in Montessori-led learning in Newmarket.
Anna Getka-Winek
Founder and Lead Teacher
Qualified Teacher | Two Degrees | Ofsted-Registered Childminder | Montessori-Trained
I founded Sensory Nest with a single ambition: to create the kind of setting I wanted for my own children. I studied in Poland for six years and hold two university degrees in Creative Pedagogy in Education and Linguistics.
As a qualified teacher with over 20 years of experience, I have worked across preschools, special needs schools, the Polish School in Cambridge, and my own sensory, library, drama and yoga classes for children.
I have completed two specialist Montessori education courses and have been shaped by Maria Montessori’s philosophy for as long as I can remember. Independence, self-confidence, creativity, respect for nature and learning through sensory experience are not principles I apply at work and set aside at home.
They are the foundation of everything, every day. I speak Polish & English, live in Newmarket with my husband Kamil and our two children Ewa and Janek. I am the Ofsted-registered lead for the setting.
Kamil Winek
Co-Founder and Gymnastics Coach
Co-Founder | Gymnastics Coach, Newmarket Gymnastics Club | Child Development Through Sport and Education
My name is Kamil, and I am the co-founder of Sensory Nest. My inspiration for creating this place came from watching my wife introduce our children to the world of Montessori education. Seeing how much they flourished through this approach made me realise how important it is for more children to grow in an environment that genuinely supports their independence, confidence and natural curiosity.
At Sensory Nest, my goal is to help create a safe, inspiring and nurturing space where every child can develop at their own pace and feel encouraged to explore the world around them.
Alongside Sensory Nest, I am a gymnastics coach at Newmarket Gymnastics Club, where I work with children to build not only physical skills but also confidence, discipline and self-belief. Working with children in both education and sport has shown me how much they can achieve when they are supported, understood and given the right environment to thrive.
Karolina Szczurek
Teacher and Childminder
Qualified Teacher | Master's Degree in Polish Literature | Degree in Journalism and Social Communication
I hold a Master’s degree in Polish literature and a degree in journalism and social communication from the Academy of Humanities and Economics in Poland. As a mother to my six-year-old daughter, Oliwia, I bring genuine personal understanding of the early years alongside my professional qualifications.
My passion for singing and music is woven into my work with children, enriching their experiences through rhythm, melody and creative expression. I am deeply committed to supporting children during critical early development stages, and I am currently expanding my knowledge through specialist Montessori tutor courses to ensure I am always delivering the highest standard of care.
Every day I strive to create a warm, inspiring and respectful environment where every child can grow, discover their own potential and build a foundation for lifelong confidence and curiosity.
Anna Tatara
Art Tutor and Early Years Practitioner
City & Guilds Level 3 Early Years Educator | Level 5 Diploma in Design and Innovation | 12+ Years Childcare Experience | Safeguarding Certified
I am a Polish-born educator who has been living in the UK for the past 17 years. For over 12 years, I have worked with children primarily in early years settings, supporting their development through play, creativity and care. I currently work as an art tutor for primary school-aged children at Sensory Nest, where I explore Polish culture and international art with a wonderful group of children through engaging, sensory-rich activities.
In 2017, I completed my City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator, which deepened my professional understanding of child development. Studying Design and Innovation with the Open University later reconnected me with a childhood passion for art - leading to my first holiday art club, an experience that brought me genuine joy and a clear sense of purpose.
My qualifications include the City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator, TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Behaviour that Challenges in Children, Open University Level 5 Diploma in Design and Innovation, Paediatric Infant and Child First Aid Level 3, and a Cambridgeshire County Council Certificate in Safeguarding and Child Protection.
Agnieszka Woroniak
Teacher and Childminder Assistant
Qualified Teacher | Master's Degree in Psychological and Pedagogical Counselling | Ofsted-Registered
I am a qualified teacher in preschool and early school education, holding a Master’s degree in Psychological and Pedagogical Counselling. As a mother to two daughters, Liliana and Melisa, I bring both professional expertise and personal understanding to every child I work with.
I am passionate about the Montessori methodology and find that exploring it at Sensory Nest has been a natural extension of everything my education and experience have pointed towards. My creative passions - photography and guitar - find their way into my sessions, inspiring imagination and creativity in the children around me.
Sensory Nest feels like a second family to me, and that warmth is something every child in my care feels from the very first day.
Sandra Opalinska
Childminder Assistant
Ofsted-Registered Childminder | Qualified Early Years Practitioner
Hello, I’m Sandra, a passionate childminder assistant at Sensory Nest and a proud mother of two amazing teenage daughters, Maja and Amelia. Missing the precious nursery years of my own children, I initially became a nanny for two years. While I loved caring for little ones, I longed for something more fulfilling. That’s when I was fortunate to join Anna’s incredible team of professional educators.
The Sensory Nest is a truly exceptional setting, where warmth, friendship, and professionalism blend seamlessly. The strong bond between staff members creates an inspiring and supportive environment that allows both children and adults to thrive.
Working here has been a turning point in my professional journey. My enthusiasm, patience, organizational skills, and love for children made me a perfect fit. Exploring Montessori methodology has been fascinating.
It’s extraordinary to see how this approach nurtures young minds. I also enjoy bringing creativity to the children’s experiences, incorporating playful “beauty treatments” into our activities.
At Sensory Nest, I feel privileged to help shape a nurturing space where children can grow, learn, and shine. It’s a joy to be part of this wonderful team.
Justyna Krechowiecka
Childminder Assistant
Qualified Teacher | Master's Degree in Early Years Pedagogy | Nursery Specialist | Poland and UK Experience
My name is Justyna. I am a dedicated and caring professional with a Master’s degree in Early Years Pedagogy with several years of experience working with children in Poland.
After moving to the UK, I chose to continue following my passion for supporting children’s development by working in a nursery environment.
I am a creative and crafty person who enjoys drawing, making decorations and bringing new ideas to life through hands-on projects. As a busy mum of two very active boys, I am organised, energetic, and used to a fast-paced environment.
In my free time, I enjoy gardening, which allows me to relax and express my love for creativity and nature.
Joining Sensory Nest allows me to combine all the aspects I enjoy most – supporting children’s development and using my creativity in a warm and friendly environment.
Our Young Ambassadors
Sensory Nest is also home to two very special members of our community:
Jan and Ewa, children of our founders, who are part of the daily life of the setting in their own wonderful ways.
Ewa Winek
Childminder Assistant and Young Musician
Childminder Assistant | Bilingual Polish-English | Violinist | Home Educator | Gymnastics and Arts
I spent two years at school, but I did not feel that the traditional school environment was the right fit for me. My parents could see that I needed a more individual, creative, and flexible way of learning, so together we decided to begin our home education journey. Since then, I have been able to learn at my own pace, explore my interests, and develop my skills in a way that makes me feel happy and confident.
I speak two languages, Polish and English. I have been playing the violin since I was 4 years old, and music is a very important part of my life. I love performing small concerts for children during music activities because it makes me happy to share music with others.
I also practise gymnastics several times a week, just like Janek. It helps me stay active, strong, and focused. I am also very interested in fashion and I love discovering new styles, colours, and creative ideas.
My parents are the founders of Sensory Nest, and I really enjoy spending time there. I feel very fulfilled in my role as a childminder assistant because I love helping to prepare a beautiful and inspiring environment for the children.
I help to change and organise the activities on the shelves, prepare themed art activities, and lead Montessori circle time. I enjoy thinking of creative ideas that help children learn, explore, and express themselves.
I especially love helping younger children and watching them become more confident and independent. Working with them teaches me patience, kindness, and responsibility. It also helps me understand the Montessori way of learning, where every child is respected and encouraged to develop at their own pace.
In the future, I would love to become a teacher. I want to inspire children, support their creativity, and help them feel happy and confident while learning.
Sensory Nest is a very special place for me. It allows me to combine everything I love: music, art, creativity, working with children, and learning new things. Every day there brings me new experiences and helps me grow.
Jan Winek
Home Educator and Sensory Nest Explorer
Home Educated | Bilingual Polish-English | Gymnastics Enthusiast | Montessori Learner
I am a home educated child and I have never been to school. I speak two languages, Polish and English.
I also do gymnastics and I have loved it since I was 4 years old.
My parents are the founders of Sensory Nest and I really love spending time there. Every day is exciting because there is always something creative and fun to do. My mum and the aunties (that is what I call the ladies who work there) are always full of amazing ideas for the children. I love watching them create new activities and games for us.
My aunties organise activities like yoga, singing, painting, games, art workshops and lots more. They always tell us that Sensory Nest is our place and they are here for us. I really like that because they always give us time and never rush us. We still have rules, but they are good rules that help us learn, be kind, and make good habits.
I also love helping younger children because it helps me understand the Montessori way even more. Montessori is about children growing in their own way and learning through creativity, freedom, and inspiration.
Every time I go to Sensory Nest I cannot wait to see what exciting things everyone has planned for us. It makes me feel happy, safe, creative, and excited to learn every day.
Jan and Ewa also invite you to follow their Montessori journey online. On their English-language channel they share ideas and activities from our Montessori workshop - perfect inspiration for families and home educators alike. On their Polish-language channel they take children on adventures around the world, exploring new places and learning Polish along the way.
Watch us on YouTube:
Montessori Children TV - Montessori activities and ideas
Pokazujemy Dzieciom Świat - travel, culture and Polish language for children
Our Specialist Coaches
Alongside our core teaching team, Sensory Nest works with specialist coaches who bring exceptional expertise to specific areas of children's development.
These sessions sit alongside our Montessori-led learning in Newmarket to offer children a truly rounded experience.
Łukasz Kozub
Polish Language Teacher, Theatre Instructor and Music Tutor
Polish Language Teacher, Theatre Instructor and Music Tutor
My name is Łukasz, and I am a vocalist, actor, journalist and cultural animator with over 20 years of experience in arts and education across Poland and the United Kingdom. I am a graduate of the Academy of Economics in Kraków and the Kraków School of Jazz and Popular Music, where I trained as a lead vocalist.
In Poland, I worked as a member of the artistic theatre ensemble Teatr Loch Camelot, producing dozens of musical performances, collaborating with the Kraków Opera and the Silva Rerum Foundation. I worked as a conference host and event organiser.
Since moving to the United Kingdom, I have continued to develop my educational and artistic work. I teach Polish at the Polish School in Cambridge and the Polish School Sobotnia in Cambridge. I lead theatre workshops at Teatr Kleks in Newmarket, introducing children and young people to the art of the stage. I also teach singing to children and adults and create concerts and recitals, including work inspired by Jacek Kaczmarski and Przemysława Gintrowska.
At Sensory Nest, I bring all of these threads together - language, music, creativity and performance, to create sessions that are joyful, culturally rich and genuinely inspiring for children.
Our Therapists and Wellbeing Partners
Alongside our core teaching team, Sensory Nest works with specialist coaches who bring exceptional expertise to specific areas of children's development.
These sessions sit alongside our Montessori-led learning in Newmarket to offer children a truly rounded experience.
Dr. Belinda Murphy
Equine-Assisted Therapist
Doctorate in Complementary Medicine | BSc Biochemistry, Toxicology and Forensic Science (University of Surrey) | Equine-Assisted Therapy Specialist | Sessions at Belinda's Farm, Bury St Edmunds
My name is Dr. Belinda Murphy and I have dedicated my life to finding the most effective healing modalities for people and animals alike. My journey began with a BSc in Biochemistry, Toxicology and Forensic Science from the University of Surrey, which led me to a pivotal moment that set me firmly on the path of complementary medicine - in which I later obtained a doctorate.
Much of my work has been helping people of all ages discover mindfulness and emotional, physical, mental and spiritual healing through interaction with horses. I work with children, young people and adults, and in recent years I have focused particularly on young people who struggled during the isolation of the 2020 and 2021 lockdowns. Interaction with horses gives them a completely different perspective on life, a renewed sense of self and the ability to be present.
Sessions take place at my farm in Bury St Edmunds, where my herd ranges from a small pony to a 17.2-hand ex-racehorse. Programmes are tailored to each individual's needs.
Urszula
Psychotherapeutic Counsellor | Child and Adolescent Specialist | Sessions in English and Polish | No GP Referral Needed
I offer individual psychotherapeutic counselling for children, adolescents and young people, as well as dedicated parental consultations. I hold sessions at Sensory Nest in Newmarket, bringing professional therapeutic support into a warm, home-based environment that feels nothing like a clinical waiting room.
Each session is carefully tailored to the child’s developmental stage and individual needs. Rather than following a fixed programme, I respond to what each child is genuinely carrying - helping them explore their emotions, build self-understanding and develop healthy coping strategies they can draw on throughout their lives.
I support children and young people experiencing anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, behavioural challenges, low self-esteem, trauma and loss, neurodevelopmental differences, family conflict, and life transitions, among other areas. No GP referral is needed to get started. Sessions are available in English and Polish.
Contact Urszula directly: contact@ug-therapy.com | 07704 801021
Dorota
HCPC-Registered Music Therapist | Certified | Fully Insured | Sessions in English and Polish | Based in Cambridge
I am a certified music therapist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), based in Cambridge and available to hold sessions at Sensory Nest in Newmarket. I am fully insured and offer sessions in both English and Polish.
I began learning violin at the age of six and my lifelong connection to music eventually led me to train as a therapist, combining my two deepest passions. I specialise in working with children, young people and adults experiencing developmental, cultural and health-related difficulties. My sessions use music not as performance, but as expressive, non-verbal communication - a way for people to connect with their emotions and discover inner strengths, particularly those who find that words alone are not always enough.
No musical ability or experience is required. My sessions can be especially beneficial for children with developmental delays, neurodevelopmental differences including autism and ADHD, communication and speech difficulties, anxiety, trauma, and social or emotional challenges.
Contact Dorota directly: dot.cambridgemusictherapy@gmail.com
Come and Meet Us
The best way to understand what Sensory Nest offers is to come and see it for yourself. We welcome families for a no-pressure visit at any time. You will see the spaces your child would use, meet the teachers who would care for them, and get a feel for how we work.
We are based at 260 Hethersett Close, Newmarket, CB8 7AT. We would love to welcome you.
What Parents Say About Sensory Nest
Beata
"The staff were always kind, caring, and professional. My son was happy to go there every day, and we noticed how much he learned and developed during his time at the nursery.
The communication with parents was also excellent. Thank you for everything – we really appreciate the support and care you gave our child."
Renata
"Very nice place, clean and safe, great outdoor mud kitchen. Childminder Anna is very caring and professional. My son loves going there. Highly recommend."
Katrina
“Anna is a wonderful teacher and both of my kids loved coming to Sensory Nest. As a bilingual English-Polish family, it was great to have a place where our kids could learn and feel comfortable in both languages. I highly recommend!”