Congratulations to Faye Hudson, who has been named this year's Heinemann and Nursery World Childcare Student of the Year.
The awards, now in their tenth year, celebrate the achievements of outstanding childcare students. The rigorous selection process was conducted by Nursery World editor Liz Roberts, childcare author Penny Tassoni, CACHE senior examiner Ann Brookes and co-ordinator of Alban Way Children's Centre, St Albans, Wendy Taylor.
Faye, who is doing a CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education at Cheadle and Marple Sixth Form College, Cheshire, impressed the judging panel with her knowledge of child development and the application of her theoretical knowledge. Four finalists each gave a presentation detailing how they would work with children and parents to handle a real-life childcare situation.
'It's still a shock - I didn't think I'd win,' said 18-year-old Faye, who has had the ambition to be a nursery teacher from an early age.
'I love that I can have such a big impact on children's learning,' she said. 'I enjoy working with and interacting with young children as they are like little sponges with a thirst for knowledge, absorbing everything you tell them.'
Faye has particularly enjoyed putting the theory gained during her course into practice on placements. It was her 'outstanding' ability to do this that prompted tutor Janice West to nominate her for the award. 'Faye also demonstrates empathy with the children she works with and a strong understanding of parental concerns.'
Faye plans to continue studying by undertaking an Early Childhood Studies degree in September. She received a cheque for £300 and a year's free subscription to Nursery World magazine. Her college received £300 of Heinemann vouchers. The runners-up were each awarded a £100 cheque and £100 worth of Heinemann vouchers for their colleges.
Presenting the awards, Marion Dowling, vice-president of Early Education, told the finalists, 'You undoubtedly have all the skills and qualities to become our best childcare practitioners. Watching the growth and development of the children in your care day after day, you will get the rewards that you do not get in any other job. Parents will need your support and to have peace of mind knowing that their child is safe in your hands. Every day is different and challenging, as family needs are forever changing, but children make you laugh and help you to forget your own problems.'
RUNNERS-UP
Nikita Dennis, studying for her CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education at Calderdale College. Tutor Samantha Emsley said, 'Nikita is always enthusiastic and excited about working with children.'
Emma Twigg, studying for a CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Children's Care, Learning and development at Derby College. Tutor Sally Jervis said, 'She is on target to receive A grades in all her assignments and is a very good role model to her peers.'
Jessie Ley, studying for her NVQ Level 3 in Children's Care, Learning and Development at Exeter College. Tutor Susan Bright said, 'Jessie works in Sure Start families settings. She is always supportive and willing to listen and sees never-ending potential in the children she works with.'
