Position: Nursery manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery in Nottingham
- You recently celebrated your 10th year at the nursery. What has kept you in this position for so long?
I've been in nursery work for more than 25 years. I became a manager ten years ago. Now I can share my experience with other people. The nursery is a family-run business and the atmosphere is really nice.
- What do you like most about your job?
Being able to see the children progress and seeing the nursery extend to offer more places and better quality. I've also been able to progress in my career - I've done my EYP and a BA degree in Childhood Studies.
- What is the biggest challenge you have faced while running the nursery?
There are challenges every day. It might be that parents have financial constraints or childcare issues. When I became manager, it was hard not having as much contact with the children.
- What creative methods do you use as nursery manager?
I try to do training on the job, so that staff can reflect on their practical time. I try to empower and inspire the staff, give them the freedom to use their own ideas and initiative.
