Declared 'excellent' by the judges, Laura has overcome her difficulties with learning at school and become an ambitious and competent team player, who excels personally and professionally.
Since starting at Kids Planet Day Nurseries six years ago, she has achieved her NVQ Levels 1, 2 and 3, as well as completing training in first aid and health and safety.
Her manager Amanda Brown says that Laura is a real team player and always deals with any problems that may arise with the utmost professionalism. She often takes the lead in delivering activities and programmes within the setting and motivates staff and parents with, says Amanda, her 'charm and enthusiasm'.
Laura's willingness to help out and go above and beyond her job role has seen her not only help implement the Every Child A Talker programme in the toddler room in which she works, but create take-home resources for parents to use with their children. She also did a food hygiene course so she could support the nursery chef and provide relief cover.
Vulnerable children attending the nursery have been greatly helped by Laura's ability to bond with all the children in her care. One family, who brought their adopted child to the setting, had great concerns about placing him in a nursery, but Laura reassured them and made them feel confident about leaving their child in her care.
Amanda Brown says, 'With her bubbly and enthusiastic approach, Laura is able to get the whole team on side and involved, helping to continually develop our setting.'
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Ricky Henry, nursery assistant, Peckham Rye Day Nursery, London, part of the Asquith group
Ricky goes out of his way to make children in his care and their families feel welcomed and special. New parents looking to enrol their children at the nursery are instantly won over by Ricky's enthusiasm and caring nature. His support for the nursery is overwhelming. Ricky often gives up his spare time to do fundraising or carry out any odd jobs that need doing.
FINALISTS
Claire Blackman, supervisor, Kid Ease, Hawkinge, Kent
Carla Brindley, room leader, Pinfold Gate Day Nursery, Loughborough, Leicestershire
Wendy Whaley, assistant manager, Abracadabra Pre-School, Rochdale, Greater Manchester
Holly Willshire, nursery practitioner, Woodlands Day Nursery, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, owned by Childbase
Criterion: Open to any qualified practitioner working in an early years setting.
