Sam, a senior play leader, was nominated for the award by staff and parents at her workplace, St Anne's CE Primary School in Liverpool. They wanted her to receive recognition for her hard work and dedication running an early morning and after-school club. She also runs a toddler group and provides clubs during the school holidays. On top of her workload, Sam recently completed a diploma in playwork and will start a playwork degree later this year.
Children at Burdett Coutts School in the London Borough of Westminster helped judge the award, which is organised by 4Children with Nursery World and Prima magazine and sponsored by the Sure Start Unit.
Anne Longfield, chief executive of 4Children said, 'It's a fantastic achievement for Sam to win this award as competition is so fierce and it's great to see such a dedicated and professional carer receiving the recognition they deserve for all their hard work.' Sam said, 'I'm so happy and proud to have won. I was amazed to have been shortlisted and to win is a great feeling. The award wouldn't have been possible without the support of colleagues and of course the children.' Sam (second left) is pictured with Molly Bedingfield, singer Chesney Hawkes and Stephen Studd, chief executive of SkillsActive.
