News

Industrial tribunal: Compensation for staff in unfair dismissal case

A nursery nurse has received more than 10,000 in compensation after a tribunal in Glasgow ruled that she had been unfairly dismissed for removing a toy from a boy who was using it to hit another child.

Mary Steven, 47, of Kirktonholme Nursery in Shettleston, Glasgow, satthe boy on the floor after taking the toy away from him.

The tribunal heard that the manager of the nursery, Elizabeth Cairns,said she was unhappy with the way Ms Steven had dealt with thesituation. Her office was next door and she said she had seen theincident.

Ms Steven, who had worked at the nursery for four years, deniedmistreating the child. She was asked to go 'into the office' and wasthen dismissed.

Her letter of dismissal, dated 14 August, 2007, stated, 'The incidentthat occurred in the nursery - namely the mistreatment of a child inyour care - is viewed as gross misconduct by the company.'

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here