Rebecca Knee
Founder & Director
Becca is the founder and driving force behind Creative Makers CIC. With over 15 years’ experience leading in the arts across Photography, Art, Design and Textiles, she has built a strong track record of delivering high-quality creative education with consistently successful outcomes for children and young people.
Throughout her career, Becca has worked extensively within school settings and community projects, designing and leading creative programmes that support confidence, skill development and personal growth. She is particularly passionate about ensuring that children who may struggle within traditional educational models are given meaningful opportunities to thrive through creative practice.
Becca’s leadership is rooted in inclusion, high expectations and a belief that creativity is transformative. Many of the young people she has worked with have gone on to achieve excellent outcomes — both academically and personally — supported by her structured yet nurturing approach.
As Director, Becca oversees the creative vision, programme development and delivery of Creative Makers’ workshops and clubs. She is deeply committed to widening access to the arts through funded places, inclusive practice and strong community partnerships.
Her aim is to create safe, inspiring spaces where every young person feels valued, capable and creatively empowered.
Jane Richards
Director
Jane is a HCPC-registered Art Psychotherapist, qualifying in 2023 after many years of experience working as a family support worker, youth mentor and community youth worker. Her career has been dedicated to supporting vulnerable, marginalised and socially excluded children, young people and families.
Jane currently runs a small private practice and works across a range of settings, including a CIC in Bristol, a regional mental health charity and a specialist SEN school. Her broad experience across therapeutic, educational and community environments enables her to bring a thoughtful, trauma-informed perspective to her work.
She has a particular interest and specialism in grief and bereavement work, as well as in supporting neurodivergent individuals. Jane is passionate about creating safe, reflective spaces where young people can process experiences, build resilience and develop a stronger sense of self.
Her work is underpinned by a strong belief in making social and educational systems more accessible and inclusive for all. Jane continues to explore alternative and creative approaches to support, ensuring that children and families can access meaningful, compassionate care.
Leah Harwood
Director
Leah brings over 20 years of experience working with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), across both school and community settings. Her practice is rooted in inclusion, creativity and a deep understanding of the diverse needs of the children and families she supports.
For the past 10 years, Leah has worked as a Creative Facilitator with Openstorytellers, delivering imaginative and empowering creative projects. During her time there, she also held the role of Designated Child Protection Lead, reflecting her strong commitment to safeguarding and best practice in working with vulnerable groups.
Leah is currently working as a Heritage Project Worker and is studying part-time for a degree in Creative Writing. Her passion for storytelling, history and creative expression informs her work, helping young people find their voice and build confidence through the arts.
Her experience and insight play an important role in ensuring Creative Makers CIC remains inclusive, safe and genuinely responsive to the needs of its community.
Tom Knee
IT & Business Management
Tom is a Director of Creative Makers CIC, overseeing IT systems, digital infrastructure and business management.
With a strong background in IT and operational management, Tom ensures that the organisation runs efficiently, securely and sustainably. He manages data protection, digital systems, compliance processes and financial oversight, helping to create a solid foundation that allows Creative Makers’ creative work to flourish.
Tom brings strategic thinking and practical business expertise to the CIC, supporting long-term growth, funding applications and operational planning. His role ensures that Creative Makers remains professionally managed, transparent and accountable while continuing to serve the community effectively.
Together, Becca and Tom combine creativity and structure — ensuring Creative Makers is both heart-led and well-run.