Continuing Professional Development - First in line

Effective first-line management is a priority at Lincolnshire Montessori, following the successful implementation of its business development plan 2009/10, which saw it invest £22,000 in training during this period.

The organisation delivers childcare and Montessori education for children from birth to 12 years at two sites and now has 50 employees. Its business plan, 'Building a Learning Way of Life', focuses on key areas such as retention of staff, perceptions of added value to the salary of employees, and creating links between professional development and career progression. Ten staff are beginning Level 4 qualifications and one has achieved EYPS.

Development manager Nathan Archer reports that the nursery's professional review process also highlighted the need for first-line management training. 'Our training manager worked closely with Train to Gain and secured funding for 14 members of staff to undertake the Institute of Leadership and Management Level 3 Award in First Line Management. This was delivered over five Saturdays by local training provider CERT, with all 11 candidates securing a pass. The training comprised workshops followed by assignments and tutorials.'