How does it feel to win Lancashire Employer of the Year?
It feels great and it really was a team effort from all of us – the area manager, nursery managers, and the 60 staff at our three settings. The judges recognised our open and honest culture, based on the idea that everyone can improve and we’re all in it together. I believe if we can make a positive difference to each other then this will have a positive impact on the children.
What makes your three settings different?
It began in 2001 when I was looking for childcare for my daughter Holly. I’d just completed an MBA and was looking at ways to give back to the community. I saw potential at Busy Bears in Preston to create a ‘home from home’ setting for staff, children and parents. We have replicated this family community model with School House Day Nursery in Blackburn in 2003 and Summerfield Day Nursery in Lytham St Annes in 2007. Our Summerfield nursery is almost 40 years old and some of the children are the second generation of the same family.
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