As well as managing Orchard Barns Kindergarten for almost 13 years,Susan has taken on a role overseeing all three nurseries in this chain,securing 'outstanding' Ofsted grades and NDNA quality kitemarks for allof them.
Staff development is second to none and credited as the backbone of thenursery. Susan and two of her staff were the first in Essex to achieveEarly Years Professional Status, and she has trained more than 30 NVQtrainees since she arrived.
After joining Orchard Barns, Susan developed a core key person approachto childcare so that staff form strong bonds with both children andparents. Other new ideas included introducing Forest School practicesand healthy eating, achieving an NHS Award.
Susan has created a 'calm atmosphere within the lively nursery' a staffmember says. 'I still enjoy coming to work every day with Susan as myrole model.' 'She is kind, considerate, helpful, and a great friend.'She gives each child and their parents 'some of her time every day'.
Fostering trust with staff has been achieved with ease through inclusionat every level and, when things do go a little wrong, dealing withissues through a policy of 'non-confrontation or reprimand'. Staff feelempowered.
Testimonials from parents reveal Susan's positive attitude and her giftfor working with them. One parent expresses her gratitude that Susansucceeded where others had failed even to try, providing her disableddaughter Amy with a place at the nursery - 'a very special time for allof us. As a family, we saw something we never thought we would, Amy inthe middle of a mainstream nursery'.
Another describes the affection Susan inspires in the children,observing on her first tour of the nursery how she said hello to everychild and member of staff that she came into contact with.
Another member of staff says, 'I would like to say thank you so much foryour guidance, your willpower that has rubbed off on me, and for showingme that I can be the best, just like you.'
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Liz Clements, The Old Station Nursery
The last year has not been the easiest for The Old Station Nursery inFaringdon, Oxfordshire, as the premises fell victim to the floods oflast summer. Not only did Liz remain 'calm and unflappable' as thefloods hit - taking some children home with her as parents were stranded- but it was down to her determination that the nursery was back on itsfeet and into new accommodation six months later. Manager of thisnursery since it opened in 2002, Liz has always worked above and beyondwhat is necessary, setting up an after-school club at parents' requestand working to include children with special needs.
FINALIST: Heidi Brewer, BonBons Day Nurseries
CRITERIA
Open to any nursery manager in a full daycare or sessional setting whohas shown exceptional leadership of their team.
- Sponsored by First Steps.
