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MEET THE TEAM
At APE, our team is the heart of our provision. Handpicked for their expertise and passion, our blend of qualified teachers, therapists, coaches, and mentors brings a wealth of experience to our community.
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Together, our team at APE is committed to supporting children and young people with complex needs and their families, ensuring a nurturing and inclusive environment for all.
JIMMY CROSS
Director & Founder
The launch of APE on the Wirral fulfils a longstanding dream, driven by the recognition that many children and young people struggle within our current environment. We are proud to introduce an inclusive and therapeutic service, designed specifically for those who currently find mainstream approaches inaccessible.
Jimmy is a seasoned educator and mentor with more than 15 years of dedicated experience supporting children, young people, and families, including those with complex needs. Throughout his career, he has honed his skills as a behavioural specialist.
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He is committed to the principles of Physiology First and holds a First Class Honors Degree in Learning, Development & Support, along with a Diploma in Child Psychology. Additionally, Jimmy is certified in coaching for football and various other sports.
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"Our mission at APE is to equip children and young people not only with essential academic and life skills, but also to nurture their passions and strengths. Rooted in understanding emotions and physiology, our provision fosters personal growth and fulfilment, enabling individuals to thrive in an ever-changing world. Through our program, individuals gain self-awareness, confidence, and the tools to pursue their unique purpose in life.”
MICHELLE WYLIE
Play Therapist
I have over 20 years of experience of working with children and young people in a variety of settings. Throughout my career I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of children and young people with various social, emotional and educational needs.
I am passionate about working and embracing a child centred approach to suit the specific needs of everyone, regardless of age or ability. Establishing a foundation of trust and mutual respect is essential. I firmly believe in nurturing the emotional and mental well-being of every child and young person, empowering them with the skills to navigate life’s ups and downs and realise their potential.
Our therapeutic approach at APE taps into important theories to help each person grow in self-awareness, forge strong bonds, and thrive. We employ a blend of trauma-informed techniques to create a supportive environment where children can blossom. Our team embraces the PACE method, crafted by Dan Hughes, to ensure that every interaction fosters a sense of safety.
Neuroscience is integrated as standard into the curriculum, enabling each child to understand their bodily reactions and associated behaviours. Using a Trauma informed approach, we weave attachment styles and emotional systems into each day (including the work of Panksepp), and delve into a deeper understanding of how our minds and bodies interact.
We firmly believe in embracing a child-centred approach to suit the specific needs of everyone, regardless of age or ability. Establishing a foundation of trust and mutual respect is essential and we are committed to nurturing the emotional and mental well-being of every child and young person, empowering them with the skills to navigate life’s ups and downs and realise their potential.
KELLIE MCKEOWN
Academic Curriculum lead
Hi, I'm Kellie, with 17 years in education across primary, secondary, and special schools. From IT coordinator to SEN lead, I've worn many hats. I'm an avid reader and known as "Dora the Explorer" in my family due to my love for travel.
My passion lies in ensuring every child has the tools to succeed. It's about creating an inclusive environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and supported. Collaboration with children, families, and communities is essential to address diverse needs and promote inclusion.
Above all, I believe in fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding forms the foundation for positive relationships and a sense of belonging.
My ethos for inclusive education revolves around creating an environment where every individual, regardless of their background, abilities, or differences, feels valued, respected, and supported in their learning journey.
I believe this is achieved by recognising and celebrating the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of all children.
The importance of encouraging collaboration among children, educators, families, and community members to create a supportive network that promotes inclusion and addresses the diverse needs of learners can not be underestimated.
At APE we foster a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding where positive relationships are cultivated among all members of the learning community, promoting a sense of belonging and acceptance.
We promote an awareness and understanding of different cultural backgrounds, languages, and traditions to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment.
Recognise and celebrate the achievements, progress, and contributions of all learners, regardless of their differences or challenges, fostering a sense of pride and motivation in their learning journey.