Meet The Team
EarlyLinks is a leading recruitment, training, and consultancy company specialising in the Early Years and Education sector. With a focus on finding the perfect fit for you and your team, we are here to support nurseries and schools no matter their needs. Led by industry expert Debbie Walker, our team is committed to delivering the highest standards of service possible.
Debbie Walker, who founded and leads EarlyLinks, brings over 30 years of experience in education and social care. As the driving force behind the organisation, Debbie’s warmth, family-oriented values, and genuine care for others make her not only an amazing leader but also a truly lovely person to work with. When she’s not enjoying a green smoothie or going for a walk, she devotes her time to supporting the development and growth of nurseries and delivering training across Essex.
Having held a wide range of roles, including OFSTED inspector and education service manager for the local authority, she brings extensive expertise to EarlyLinks. Debbie is deeply committed to ensuring that every client receives the highest quality service.
Debbie Walker
Founder and CEO
Emily is a qualified Primary Teacher, Children's Yoga Teacher, and SEN Consultant, bringing a wealth of knowledge and passion to every role she undertakes. Down-to-earth and approachable, Emily excels at offering tailored support, making her an exceptional consultant ready to help you drive your business forward. In addition to her expertise in education and special needs.
Emily has a natural flair for social media and marketing. She uses her creative skills to elevate our brand's visibility in the public domain, ensuring we reach the right audience. With Emily's diverse talents and dedication, she is an invaluable asset to the team and to those she works with.
Emily Shephard
Social Media & Marketing Lead and Consultant
Annaliese has over 20 years of experience within education and leadership roles, having worked across all primary year groups, including EYFS. Family-centred and passionate about performing arts, she brings warmth, creativity, and a nurturing approach to her work. Throughout her career, she has led a variety of subject areas, mentored student teachers, and played an active role within school leadership teams, helping to shape curriculum and support staff development.
Now focusing on the growth and development of EarlyLinks, Annaliese oversees both operational and administrative aspects of the service. Her strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to supporting children, families, and professionals help create an efficient, caring, and supportive environment for everyone involved.
Annaliese Day
Senior Administration Officer
Tahra has over 20 years of experience in childcare and early years education. Beginning her career as a Level 3 Nursery Nurse, she progressed into managing after-school provision before completing a BA in Childhood and Youth Studies. Since joining EarlyLinks in 2023 as a 1:1 support practitioner, she has developed into a key member of the recruitment team, supporting candidates with CVs, interviews, compliance, and finding roles that suit their skills and circumstances.
Alongside her recruitment role, Tahra continues to work within local nurseries and schools as cover staff, enabling her to stay connected to the sector she is passionate about and maintain valuable insight into the needs of both settings and practitioners.
Outside of work, Tahra enjoys spending quality time with her daughter, exploring new places and enjoying family days out. She also loves taking walks with the family dog and spending time in the garden, where she enjoys creating and maintaining outdoor spaces. These interests reflect her caring, nurturing nature and her appreciation for spending time outdoors with her family.
Tahra Brooks
Administrative and Client Recruitment Co-Ordinator
Kirsty is the Administration and Client Support Coordinator at EarlyLinks Recruitment Ltd, where she plays a key role in ensuring the smooth and efficient running of recruitment processes. With a strong focus on compliance, organisation, and client care, she works closely with both clients and candidates to ensure all documentation and onboarding requirements are completed accurately and on time. Known for her friendly, approachable, and supportive manner, Kirsty is committed to delivering excellent customer service and creating a positive experience for everyone throughout their recruitment journey.
Often referred to as the fastest typer in the office, Kirsty keeps everything running efficiently behind the scenes and is always ready to assist colleagues, clients, and candidates alike. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family travelling to and supporting their dog shows, as well as relaxing with a good book.
Kirsty Taylor
Administrative and Client Support Co-Ordinator
Helen has been with EarlyLinks for the past eight years and is a true asset to the team. With a financial background in banking, she brings a wealth of expertise and precision to her role. Over the years, Helen has also trained as part of the Contact team for EarlyLinks, broadening her skill set and contributing even more to the organisation.
Helen's beautiful nature, along with her caring and compassionate approach, shines through in everything she does. As a devoted mother and dog lover, she balances her professional and family life with grace, making her a valued and much-loved member of the EarlyLinks family.
Helen Wilson
Accounts Team and Contact Worker
Geraldine Sparkes
Specialised TA
Geraldine is a key member of the core team, providing essential support to both schools and childcare settings. With extensive experience working with children with special educational needs (SEN), she excels at creating inclusive environments where every child can flourish. Her expertise is invaluable to educators and care providers.
Geraldine also enjoys getting hands-on with the little ones in our Early Years settings. Whether it’s messy play, crafting, or sensory activities, she brings energy and enthusiasm to every interaction, leaving a positive impact on the children. Her caring nature and commitment make her an invaluable part of the team.
