What to grow in a Shady Bed over winterr

Looking for ideas on making the most of a shady bed over winter.

Its part of the old chicken run - about 10' x 10' and shaded on most sides during the summer; overhung by an oak trees. 
Shed to the west, plum tree to the south, fence to the north and fruit bushes to the east. Perfect for a chicken run but hopeless for growing summer veg - believe me, I've tried. .
However, in  winter, all this changes! The trees lose their leaves and there's a little more overhead light - but the sun has moved around, rises in the south east and sets in the south west -  fewer hours of sunlight. 
BUT the oak leaves won't fall until Oct/Nov and will be back by April.
On the positive side, its fertile soil, well manured and pecked over by various chooks over the years.

If you've stuck with this so far, well done!! Basically, I need suggestions for plants that will grow over winter and be ready by April. Not much to ask, is it? 

I have some ideas but thought I'd ask you too. Great minds and all that.