Woodsview Out-of-School Activity Centre
About Woodsview
Woodsview Activity Centre is a family-run organisation founded by aunt and niece, Sharon Harding and Laura Snow. We are passionate about creating enriching, supportive, and enjoyable experiences for children outside of school hours. Our aim is to provide a safe, nurturing environment where every child can learn, play and thrive.
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Before founding Woodsview Activity Centre, Sharon established Woodsview International Preschool in Istanbul - a respected and much-loved early years school that has been running successfully for over 25 years. Today, the preschool continues to flourish under the care of Sharon’s daughter, allowing Sharon to return to her roots in England. After years of discussions about creating a children's activity centre, the timing finally felt right. With the preschool in safe hands and Laura ready to pursue a career working with children that fits around her young son, Woodsview Activity Centre was born - a new chapter built on decades of experience, family collaboration and shared passion.
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We understand the challenges faced by working parents and aim to provide affordable, flexible, childcare solutions through our after-school programme. Our structured sessions promote both academic and creative development, supporting each child as an individual within a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
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At Woodsview, we believe learning extends beyond the classroom. Our activities are carefully designed, not just to meet academic needs, but also to nurture each child's personal growth and enjoyment. We work with small groups of children aged 5 to 12, allowing us to give individual attention and create a family-like atmosphere where every child feels valued, supported and secure.
We encourage strong social connections through play and help children develop their problem-solving and communication skills in positive, respectful ways. Our fun and varied activities include literacy games, yoga, arts and crafts, cookery, and more.
By offering time for both structured activities and relaxation, we help children strengthen their skills, build independence, and gain confidence - all while having fun and making lasting friendships.
Our Story and Branding
The name Woodsview holds a special place in our family’s heart. It comes from the road where Laura’s Dad and Sharon grew up - a place filled with happiness, warmth, and cherished memories. That sense of belonging and joy is what we strive to recreate at Woodsview every day.
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Our poppy imagery represents Sharon’s Mum and Laura’s Nan, whose kindness, creativity, and strength continue to inspire everything we do. The poppies serve as a gentle reminder of her lasting influence and the importance of family, love, and remembrance.
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The snail, Baki, which you’ll spot throughout our branding, was originally drawn by Sharon’s grandson, Karahan, and has since become a beloved part of our identity. To us, Baki symbolises taking life at your own pace, finding joy in small moments, and embracing steady, meaningful growth - values that mirror the way we nurture the children in our care.
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Together, these elements - our name, the poppy, and the snail - represent the heart of Woodsview; a place rooted in family, guided by love, and dedicated to helping children grow confidently and happily in their own time.
Family values at the heart of play
Helping every child grow at their own pace
Meet the Team
Sharon
Sharon has over 35 years of teaching experience and a strong background in educational management. Before she and Laura founded Woodsview Out-of-School Activities Ltd, she played a key role in developing and implementing English curricula within private education settings. Her approach combines a variety of teaching methods to help young children develop the foundational skills needed to “learn how to learn.”
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Over the course of her career, Sharon successfully established and operated two preschools - one in Istanbul and the other in Vienna. Her international experience has provided her with valuable insight into how children learn and grow across different cultures.
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In recent years, Sharon has focused on private online tutoring for children around the world. This work has allowed her to stay current with the latest educational tools and techniques while continuing to support children’s learning in a personal and adaptable way.
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Her expertise in child psychology, curriculum development, and classroom management plays a key role in fostering a warm, supportive environment at Woodsview Activity Centre.
Sharon holds a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Young Learners from the University of York, along with a wide range of additional qualifications and skills that reflect her dedication to education.
Laura
Laura brings a unique and valuable skill set that perfectly complements Sharon’s educational expertise. With 17 years of experience in administration, she ensures the smooth running of Woodsview Activity Centre, combining strong organisational and operational skills with care and attention to detail.
Her background spans purchasing, project management, graphic design, customer service, reporting, accounting, and executive support - giving her a well-rounded foundation to manage the day-to-day operations efficiently and effectively.
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Following the birth of her son, Laura worked as a medical telephonist in a GP surgery, where she developed the ability to remain calm under pressure and handle sensitive situations with empathy. These qualities translate naturally into working with children and their families, ensuring every child feels safe, supported, and valued.
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Most recently, Laura has been a full-time mum, during which she completed a Level 2 Certificate in Caring for Children and Young People. Her dedication to learning and personal growth reflects her long-standing passion for supporting children.
For Laura, her role at Woodsview is not just a career - it’s a personal mission to create a warm, nurturing environment where every child can thrive.
