Nursery World - Clashes lead to walkout by nursery staff

More than half the staff at a Hampshire nursery handed in their notice last Monday, following clashes with the nursery director. Eleven staff from Poppins Early Learning in Abshot, Fareham, were involved in a mass walkout, following a strike on Thursday 23 November. Arriving at work on Tuesday, they found replacements had been drafted in. Richard Lewis, the nursery director, told departing staff they would not be required to work out their two months' notice period.

Eleven staff from Poppins Early Learning in Abshot, Fareham, were involved in a mass walkout, following a strike on Thursday 23 November. Arriving at work on Tuesday, they found replacements had been drafted in. Richard Lewis, the nursery director, told departing staff they would not be required to work out their two months' notice period.

Mr Lewis's partner, Jamie Ashwanden, allegedly had handed over his side of the business, and other staff members are working out notice already given.

At least 14 of the original 19 members of staff are due to have left by the New Year.

One member of staff commented on the website of the Daily Echo newspaper, 'We had a fantastic team at Poppins and I for one will miss the staff, the parents and most importantly the babies, some of whom I had looked after for two years. I shall miss everyone terribly.'

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included