Emails between two parents and Auden Place Community Nursery's manager were still being swapped at 3am on the deadline day for Nursery World Awards 2010 entries. Such is the dedication and enthusiasm for their north London nursery. And their determination paid off - they won the 'Working with parents' award.
'Our work is all about engaging with families,' says manager Mikki Parkes. 'Auden Place recognises parents as the first and most important educators of their children. All the staff see themselves as partners with parents in providing care and education for their child.'
In a voluntary managed setting, the goodwill and involvement of parents is vital for the nursery's continued operation. The nursery is overseen by a management committee of parents and community representatives who meet monthly, with a creche and refreshments provided. All parents are welcome to attend these meetings and are encouraged to have input. 'It is not just those on the management committee who have good ideas,' explains Ms Parkes. 'It is also important to be transparent and not hide anything. Parents should be able to see what we are spending money on so they understand where their fees are going.'
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