The guests, many of whom had already enjoyed a day at the Early Years and Primary Teaching Exhibition, were treated to a champagne reception. Then it was time for dinner and a nail-biting wait before the award winners were announced.
Children's TV presenter Michaela Strachen hosted the event, alongside Nursery World editor Liz Roberts. Michaela paid tribute to early years professionals in nurseries, schools and homes who work so hard to support the youngest members of society.
She said, 'I am especially pleased to be involved with the first annual Nursery World Awards. As a new mother, I'm acutely aware of the importance of these formative years, when babies and children have such an enormous capacity to learn and need so much input.
'When I am at work I will be relying partly on professional support and find it invaluable to work in partnership with the people I choose to share in caring for my son. I, for one, am delighted that there are talented, professional people who are dedicated to the happy development of children, their education and well-being.'
