Nursery World Awards 2008: Individuals - Early Years Professional of the Year
WINNER: Helen Easby, Newcastle College Day Nursery
Since she began her career at Newcastle College, Helen has demonstrated all the qualities that Early Years Professional Status seeks to uphold - not only delivering and striving towards better practice, but forging the way forward for others as well.
Helen's task when she joined the college in 2002 was to create a 25-place campus nursery from scratch. The nursery was to be solely dedicated to supporting students, and it is now a lifeline for parents wishing to return to training and education.
Many are vulnerable young mothers wishing to finish GCSEs, and a significant number are refugees or asylum-seekers learning English.
Colleagues describe Helen as inspirational, and what sprung out from her nomination was a constant striving to improve. She is known as a beacon of good practice in the region, and her team was filmed and photographed for the Early Years Foundation Stage pack. Helen was then called on to deliver training to early years providers in the region.
The impact her belief has had on her team is clear from the comments on her nomination. One colleague said, 'She insists we must never think that we've reached the top; we can always improve and become stronger.' Another said, 'We share her vision of continuous prestige in the field.'
Her passion for outdoor play has led to the creation of a fantastic environment at Newcastle College Day Nursery. Thanks to Helen's campaigning, the garden is equipped with two man-made hills, an innovative design ideal for rolling and sledging. A fire pit is the next project.
Helen is never too busy to provide sensitive one-to-one care for both children and parents. The added pressure of exams and coursework is a challenge she never fails to address and find individual solutions to, helping students and their families succeed.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Rachel Tregear, Little Monkeys Nursery, Horsham, West Sussex
Support and dedication were the words that colleagues and parents used to sum up Rachel, while the managing director at Little Monkeys describes her as 'one in a million'. Rachel joined the nursery straight from university, and within six months she was promoted to room leader and began studying for her EYP Status. She has become an excellent leader to a team of eight, dealing with up to 36 children on the busiest days. Her steady and cheerful influence has boosted morale, with staff becoming more supportive of each other and more motivated to better their practice. The loyalty she inspires demonstrates her skilled leadership - one member of staff even bought her thank you flowers because she was so touched by Rachel's support when she was unwell.
CRITERIA
Open to practitioners who have gained Early Years Professional Status and have shown leadership in their settings and the sector.
- Sponsored by CWDC.
