Smiles Sensory & Family Farm

I have spent the last 20 years running a lively Preschool in Crowborough for children aged 2-4 years old.  I was trained as Safeguarding Lead and previously held the role of SENCO.

I have recently retired.  I love animals and the outside environment and I a thrilled to be part of Smiles.  I am willing to put my head, heart and hands to any job around the farm.

We have a rescue cat and dog at home.

I am a mother of 3 grown up children, close in age and one with additional needs. I used to help with reading in our local primary school & have done some tutoring over the years. 

 I have always kept animals and grew up in the countryside around lambs, ponies and claves, not to mention all the pets we've had in our household over the years. 

 I am loving rediscovering and relearning all about animal care and really enjoy the young people and families who visit the farm.

I am honoured to be the owner of Smiles Sensory and Family Farm.

My journey with Smiles began in the summer of 2021, when I joined as a volunteer. During my time here, I saw first-hand the profound difference that a safe, peaceful environment, meaningful interaction with animals and connection with nature can make to people's lives. When the opportunity arose to continue the work of Smiles, I was determined to preserve and develop its values and create a long-term sanctuary for both people and animals.

I'm a Registered Nurse working laterally in child health, which has given me some understanding of neurodiverse children. I have also worked extensively in Safeguarding children. 

I have 2 grown up children and am a dog lover.

I have been volunteering at Smiles since 2022 and have enjoyed getting to know the animals and how to care for them. I find the farm very relaxing and mindful and enjoy showing visitors around.

Moving to Crowborough in 2026, I quickly fell in love with the wide open spaces and easy access to the countryside. To get outside more often, I started volunteering at Smiles as

 a client facilitator. 

Previously, I have had a career as a nurse and then switched to being a special needs teaching assistant to fit in with family life.

I have three grown up daughters who all live away from home and so wanted to give some of my time to support Smiles. I love to walk and practice yoga, music festivals and baking. It’s hugely rewarding volunteering here, a haven for rescued animals and a unique one to one experience for the visitors.

Hi, I’m Anne-Marie, a mum to a teenage boy, a loveable Labrador and a fabulous cat!

I love animals and children, and work as a 1:1 for a SEN child in a local Primary school. I’ve been blessed to travel through the school journey with a wonderful group of kids, watching them grow and learn, and just be that back up support for when things may get a little too much for them.

To have an opportunity to do a tiny bit to help on this fabulous farm just puts that warmth into my day..