Playbarn Team
Our team might be small in size, but we’re certainly not in energy, ideas or enthusiasm for a bit of muddy, messy, imaginative play.
Millie and Anna are the names and faces behind everything that happens at the Playbarn. They lead our Stay & Play sessions, dream up activities, organise events and help create the kind of space where everyone feel comfortable enough to explore, confident enough to try something new and listened to when they have an idea of their own.
Between them, they bring a wonderfully mixed bag of early years expertise, creativity, outdoor education, storytelling and a genuine passion for preserving the wonder of childhood. They’re passionate about giving children the freedom to follow their curiosity, make their own choices, get things wrong, try again and discover the world around them.
You’ll find them encouraging a new adventure, getting stuck into a craft, finding joy in the bleakest of Glasgow's weather, hunting for bugs or joining in with whatever imaginative game the children have invented that day.
Both Millie and Anna are qualified in Paediatric First Aid, as well as having a varitey of credentials between them.
Most importantly, they’re here to make sure every child who walks through the Playbarn doors feels welcome, heard, included and free to be themselves.
MILLIE MCHEYNE
General Manager
Millie is an early years educator, writer, storyteller, dog-mum and firm believer that it really does take a villiage.
Millie’s work is rooted in literacy, expressive arts, emotional development and inclusion. She has an MLitt in Playwriting & Dramaturgy, an MA in Theatre and an SVQ in Early Years, bringing a wonderfully creative approach to how children learn, play and express themselves.
Her previous stint as a wedding and events coordinator also makes her the perfect event and party planning partner.
When she isn't at the Playbarn, it's woodland walks, sewing, baking, writing, or dancing around the house like nobody’s watching (although you can pretty much guarantee her dog Nessie is definitely watching... and barking).
At the barn, you can find her cuddling up to the ponies or munching on snacks.
Her promise to every child who walks through our doors? To listen – really listen – to their ideas, their stories, their big feelings, their perspectives.
Millie wants to create a space where every single child and their adults feel welcome to have new experiences and meet new people. Through intentional design and informed practices, Millie has designed the Playbarn for cosiness and connection.
anna bonner
Operations Manager
Introducing Anna, our resident outdoor adventurer and educator, keen cyclist and professional bug hunter.
Anna has a BA (Hons) in Journalism, Film & Media and a PGDE in Primary Education, and also works part-time as an outdoor nursery teacher. She’s passionate about giving children the freedom to learn through the world around them – preferably with muddy boots, fresh air and the occasional interesting creature involved.
Her approach is all about process over product. It’s not about making the perfect craft or getting the ‘right’ answer; it’s about having a go, getting curious, figuring things out and enjoying the journey along the way.
When she’s not at the Playbarn, Anna is happiest adventuring outdoors – especially camping, exploring the beach or getting out on her bike. She’s also a big believer that life is too short for boring clothes, so expect plenty of colour and personality when you see her.
Her educational passions are nature, creativity, independence and friendship.
Her ideal day? Probably somewhere outdoors, discovering something she’s never seen before.
For Anna a childhood at the Playbarn is all about curiosity, expression and having the freedom to explore without limits. All of her incredible work put into the barn & it's design reflects this.
Our Playbarn Promises
Learning Through Play
We believe play is how children learn about themselves and the world around them. Our spaces encourage curiosity, problem-solving, creativity, independence and confidence.
Community
We're not just a place to bring your children to play. We're a space where families can meet, connect, share experiences and become part of a local community.
Child-Led
We follow children’s curiosity rather than directing every moment of their play. We give them the freedom to choose and explore at their own pace.
Connection with Nature
We want children to experience the outdoors as somewhere to explore, play and have fun, whatever the Scottish weather. Being beside Pollok Country Park gives us the perfect opportunity to bring nature into everyday play.
Freedom to Explore
Children need space to take little risks, get messy, make mistakes and try again. We create an environment where they can explore without everything being perfectly planned or controlled.
Welcoming to Everyone
The Playbarn is a place where both children and grown-ups feel comfortable, welcomed and part of the community.
Real Childhood
Less screen time, more muddy knees. More adventures, more creativity, more time outdoors and more opportunities for children to simply be children.
Wonder & Imagination
Childhood should be full of magic. We create spaces and experiences that encourage children to make up their own worlds, stories and adventures.
Frequently asked questions
We have visited the Playbarn twice now with Williamwood toddler group. It's been perfect for our preschool children. Loads of toys, inside the barn and crafts and a great space outside with a sandpit, trampoline, tree swing, mud kitchen and lots more! The best bit about the playbarn is the staff! Anna & Millie are amazing with the kids, encouraging a lot of imaginative play. We just love it here!
Zoe