Nicola, who is studying the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies at University College Chichester, predicts that day nurseries of the future will operate around more natural 'family' groupings so children can interact with different age groups and that more men will enter the childcare profession.
She said, 'Starting the degree has made me think more about childcare and the work we do, rather than just going through the motions. It has made me think about what we are doing wrong at the moment and how I'd like to change it, such as the more natural, stimulating childcare environments I described in my essay.'
Carole Beaty, college programme co-ordinator for childhood studies, said, 'Nicola is a very good student. We always talk about the importance of play and experimental learning and Nicola has really taken all this on board in her essay.'
Nicola will use her 1,000 prize to help fund her studies. Caroline Costello, studying the CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education at New College Durham, won 500 in second place and Kirsty Brooks, studying NVQ 3 in Early Years Care and Education with Smart Training, won the 250 third prize.
