Category: Preschool Coaches

Our Preschool Coaches are dedicated, caring, and passionate about helping young children explore the joys of gymnastics.
They focus on developing basic movement skills, balance, coordination, and confidence through fun, safe, and engaging activities. With patience and creativity, they create a nurturing environment where little ones can play, learn, and grow, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of movement and active learning.

Gemma Thompson

Gemma is a former acrobatic gymnast who competed at national level and brings a genuine passion for the sport into every session she coaches. Her love for gymnastics shines through in her positive, encouraging approach, helping gymnasts feel confident, supported, and motivated.

She is a British Gymnastics Level 1 Sports Acrobatics Coach and is currently working towards her Level 2 qualification. With several years of coaching experience, Gemma has taught recreational gymnasts from complete beginners through to advanced levels, supporting strong technical development at every stage.

In addition to gymnastics, Gemma is also a qualified yoga teacher, bringing a holistic approach to her coaching that supports strength, flexibility, balance, and overall wellbeing.

Lily Garrard

Lily is a valued member of AirAcro’s senior squad and has been involved in gymnastics since preschool. Growing up in the sport has given her a strong foundation, excellent technique, and a genuine passion for acrobatic gymnastics. Lily’s long-term dedication is reflected in her commitment, resilience, and positive attitude in training. She is a great role model within the gym and continues to develop her skills while inspiring younger gymnasts at AirAcro.

Grace Hanger

Grace is an acrobatic gymnast and coach at AirAcro who has recently returned to the sport after stepping away from gymnastics for a period of time. Her journey has given her a renewed passion and appreciation for acrobatic gymnastics, which she brings into both her training and coaching. As an athlete, Grace is motivated and committed to developing her skills, and as a coach she is encouraging, understanding, and supportive. Her experience allows her to connect well with gymnasts of all ages and help inspire confidence, resilience, and enjoyment in the sport.

Debby Livings

Debby is a High Performance Coach at AirAcro with extensive experience in acrobatic gymnastics. She has been involved in the sport at a high level for many years, competing internationally and coaching gymnasts who perform at Great Britain level.

Alongside her coaching career, Debby is also a school principal, bringing strong leadership, organisation, and a deep understanding of youth development into the gym environment. Her coaching style combines high standards, clear guidance, and a strong focus on athlete wellbeing, helping gymnasts grow in confidence, discipline, and performance both in sport and beyond.

Claire Jones

Claire is a committed and enthusiastic coach currently completing her Level 3 qualification in Acrobatic Gymnastics, and she also holds a Level 2 General Gymnastics qualification. She has coached a wide range of gymnasts—from preschool beginners to competitive athletes—developing programmes that help children of all abilities progress in a fun, structured environment.

Her coaching style is nurturing yet technically focused, supporting each gymnast to reach their full potential. As a parent of four, including a competitive acrobatic gymnast, Claire brings valuable insight into the teamwork and dedication involved in helping young athletes thrive.

At AirAcro, Claire is passionate about creating an inclusive, inspiring club where gymnasts of all ages can learn, grow, and enjoy the sport.

Alison Barugh

Ali is a High Performance Coach at AirAcro and holds a Level 5 qualification in Acrobatic Gymnastics. She is also an accomplished circus performer and has over 20 years of experience within both the professional performance industry and elite-level acrobatic gymnastics. Ali has competed internationally and has coached and taught gymnasts performing at Great Britain level.

She brings a unique blend of technical excellence, artistry, and athlete-centred coaching to the gym, with a strong focus on performance quality, progression, and wellbeing. Her expertise and leadership play a key role in developing high-performing, confident athletes at AirAcro.

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August 31, 2025
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