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Spotlight on…Natalie Clifford

Careers & Training
Deputy manager, Portland House Nursery in Huddersfield

Were you looking forward to celebrating your 15th anniversary with the nursery?

I wasn’t expecting anything at all, so it was a complete surprise when I walked into a room full of people and they did a presentation for me. I got a gorgeous bunch of flowers, an engraved vase and a cheque.

What are the benefits of having so many members of staff at Portland who have stayed for so long?

We have a few people who have also done 15 years, and some who have been here for over 20. It means there is always someone to look up to for the younger ones, and while of course I know how the company works, there is still always someone I can go to for help and advice when I need it too.

And you have had fewer than 15 days off sick in 15 years?

I must just be super-healthy! I do have days off but I haven’t for about three years now, and before that I had four or five years without any. I like going to work. It is such a welcoming place and the staff are so friendly. It’s a really enjoyable place to be.

Will you be there for another 15 years?

I don’t know about that! But I will definitely be going back after maternity leave and I have no intention of leaving. I love it.