Our people
Meet the Learning SPACE team
We are a passionate team of educators, parents and specialists united by a shared mission - to empower children and families through the best sensory and educational resources.
Lorraine McAleer
Founder / Managing Director
I was a teacher and have over 24 years experience in the education and sensory world. At the age of 38 I was diagnosed with Autism which has made a huge impact on my life. This drive comes from supporting my sister who is the light of my life and has Sotos Syndrome. Passionate about empowering and enabling children so that no matter what their needs are, they feel valued, resilient and happy.
Mary Leonard
Managing Director
Qualified as a Social Worker, joined Lorraine and opened Learning SPACE in 2007. Passionate about walking the dog, family and supporting as many children as possible through Learning SPACE. Fun fact: I have coached swimming for the Special Olympics!
Naomh Judson
Procurement & Operations Manager
I have been working with Learning SPACE since 2016 and I love my job! I have over 10 years experience of working with children of all abilities. I am passionate about my role as I get to support people like my wonderful sister Emma, who has Sotos Syndrome. Fun fact: I have lived in Spain for 5 years and work remotely.
Karl Judson
Bid & Project Manager
Passionate about ensuring the children and families we supply to through Learning SPACE have access to the resources they need to live an inclusive life in society. Fun fact: I like anything on wheels and my dad taught me how to ride a motorbike from 3 years old!
Patrycja Czaja
Accounts Supervisor
I have been working at Learning SPACE since 2014. My greatest passion is interior design and decoration. I love to travel and dream of visiting the whole world. Fun fact: I have been on a rotation diet for many years - wherever I turn, I eat something and I am still surprised that it does not work!
Emma McAleer
Advisor
I love love love dogs and I volunteer as a dog walker twice a week. I have even walked 20 dogs at one time! I live in independent living and love hanging out with my friends, family and boyfriend. Fun fact: I am an actress for Skysdalimit and I love taking part in their shows.
Sinead Farrell
Customer Services & Project Manager
I love being outdoors, especially in autumn, my favourite season of the year. Nothing beats a crisp walk in the woods with the family and of course a coffee in hand. Fun fact: I have worked on Hollyoaks and Jeremy Kyle!
Andy Hazley
Training Specialist Manager
Over the past 18 years, I have developed my knowledge of autism and sensory needs with the aim of helping as many people as I can. I am the training manager for Learning SPACE and also work as a trained advocate independently. In my spare time I enjoy gardening and spending time with my family.
Phillip Anderson
Sales Executive
I have a big interest in history and like to stay active by playing football and running. My main hobbies are mountain hiking and adventures with my 2 girls. Fun fact: I am a qualified mixologist - a great person to have around for the Christmas party!
Georgina Rigby
Marketing & Customer Service
Passionate about raising chickens, beekeeping, and spending time outside exploring my rural surroundings. Fun fact: Before moving to Spain in 2011, I was a qualified Florist and did flowers for Dame Judi Dench. Now I am a proud chicken mum and beekeeper in rural Galicia!
Liam Judson
Project Manager
Passionate about understanding how things work, how to fix them, and learning everything I can about how something functions. As a qualified Electrical Engineer, I am always tinkering with something. Fun fact: Like Karl, I have been riding anything on 2 wheels since I was a toddler - the only difference is I am better at it!
Niamh Hassan
Customer Service & Schools Liason
I am a big sports fan and follow my local teams closely. I love problem-solving and trivia based activities and am part of a quiz team. I also have two daughters who keep life busy and entertaining. Fun fact: I am a qualified teacher with over 10 years experience and still teach part-time - both roles let me do what I enjoy most: helping people.
Carole Johnson-Thompson
Customer Service
I just love the outdoors whatever the weather. I enjoy walking in the mountains and taking my mountain bike on the trails. At any opportunity I love to go swimming or paddle boarding with my family. I especially enjoy winter swims - the colder the better! Fun fact: I think rainbows are cool because they are colourful, happy and they always make people smile.
Karen Marshall
Customer Service
As a mum to four children and having grown up supporting children with additional needs, I have a real passion for the support we can offer to families at Learning SPACE. My degree in psychology often serves me well both at work and at home. Fun fact: I am a keen baker and prone to taking notions - you will not often find me sitting down outside of the office!