Spotlight on ... Diane Wilkinson

Position: Nursery manager, Tyneside Early Education, Washington, Tyne & Wear

What have you won an award for?

I've got an Individual Learner Award and a Regional Learning Works Award. It's part of Adult Learners' Week. I've completed my NVQ level 3 in childcare and am working towards level 4. I got the awards because I've gone from nursery assistant to nursery manager in four years, after I changed career at the age of 50.

What made you change career?

I used to work for an insurance company and after a while I thought, there must be more to life than this. I'd been interested in childcare ever since my own children were small, so I went for a job as a nursery assistant and I got it! It was very strange and daunting to go back to college after more than 30 years, but I managed it and I've never looked back.

How are you enjoying childcare?

I really enjoy working with children and I would definitely recommend it to others. If I can do it, anyone can!

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