My brief was to turn it into a professional and stimulating unit. Despite poor pay, I was confident I could provide a setting that would stimulate children and staff. I persuaded staff of the necessity of training (they went on to gain Level 2 qualifications), implemented a manageable routine, and introduced regular planning meetings to provide activities the children would find stimulating and exciting. I introduced a key worker system and supported staff in building professional relationships with parents. I invited other professionals to advise us on how best to support children with special needs and their families. Within six months we were full and had an extensive waiting list.
It was normal for me to work in excess of my contracted hours. We had a fantastic Ofsted inspection. But I left after 18 months because of the constant battle to get support from my superiors, a voluntary unpaid committee who asked me to change bad practice but would not support me when I challenged it. I was accused of being overpaid, aggressive and 'not doing as I was told'.
When I appealed to my Pre-school Learning Alliance field worker, she was unhelpful, though one of her colleagues tried to help by talking to staff and committee members. My health began to suffer, so I resigned.
I realise now how naive I was to assume that anyone working with children loves it and wants to do they best they can. I have met many people who are working in pre-schools while their own children are at school who intend to 'get a proper job' when their children are older.
Now I am back at college studying for a Level 4 qualification. I need to work because I love it and I need the money, but I will never work for a voluntary committee again.
I am very disillusioned about the pre-school sector despite its need for good staff.
