On the financial side, however, there are signs that tough trading conditions for private day nurseries are having a negative effect. The weak performance of nurseries in the UK's largest chain, Nord Anglia, and lower than expected occupancy levels have contributed to falling profits and the closure of the company's head office (see News, page 4).
The divisional managing director of the nurseries, Tracey Storey, has resigned. Before its takeover by Nord Anglia in June last year, she and her management team had been at the helm of Leapfrog - the rapidly expanding nursery group. But Nord Anglia also bought the ailing Jigsaw chain to add to its Princess Christian nurseries, and there have been problems integrating the diverse brands. Added to this is an over-supply of nursery places, which has been exacerbated by various state-funded childcare initiatives.
No doubt those at the helm of other nursery groups will be watching with interest, and not a little nervousness!
