Tell us about your journey with First Place Nurseries so far?

I joined First Place Bushey as a student in 2012 and progressed through the ranks as a nursery nurse, room manager, third in charge and am now a Deputy Nursery Manager at Bushey Nursery.

What do you love most about your job?

As Deputy Manager I really enjoy supporting my team and colleagues. My real passion is supporting children with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) and behavioural needs.

I love providing a home from home environment to help support young children and babies to settle into nursery when they first join us. I enjoy visiting the nursery rooms, listening to their stories and seeing how they have grown and developed.

I never know after a fun day at nursery whether I’ll go home covered in paint, play dough or shaving foam but I do that know I’ve had a good time!

What has been your proudest moment at First Place?

During the pandemic although many colleagues had to be furloughed I was proud to be part of the small staff ‘Covid team’ when we stayed open to support those families of keyworkers.

Although an anxious time for all, it was also great fun, for example we even put together our own staff tiktok dance to entertain the keyworker children!

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in childcare?

Childcare is not for everyone and is hard work but extremely rewarding. I would advise anyone thinking about a career in childcare to try and visit a nursery and spend a day to see what the role is all about. Also, it’s essential to have a sense of humour!

Describe the culture and ethos at First Place

First Place is a small company with three nurseries. We are friendly, nurturing and supportive and enjoy team building nights out.