In our lead feature on sustainability (p4-6) there is plenty ofpractical advice on how to make operational efficiency the cornerstoneof survival.
While the financial benefits of 'going green' are seen as more of along-term proposition for nurseries participating in the Eco-Schoolsprogramme (p10-12), the benefits to practice for children and staff areimmediate. At Balmedie Primary School in Aberdeenshire, a neweco-friendly nursery provides a custom-built environment that enhancesthe curriculum and helps children to understand about recycling.
Most are agreed that we need more men in nurseries. On p18 weinvestigate a chain which has established no fewer than four males inkey positions.
If your office could do with a makeover, take inspiration from our lookbehind the doors of two, very different managers' offices (p20) and findout what makes them user-friendly.
Communicating with existing and potential clients is a vital part ofevery nursery's marketing drive and a newsletter can be an effective wayto spread the word. On p25 we provide a guide to getting started.
Inevitably tough times mean that unpaid fees are an increasing problemand our final feature (p29) offers legal advice on how best to pursuethem.