I looked for people with practical skills, a kindly attitude and an ability to understand and translate theory to the nursery situation. Sometimes I turned away graduates in favour of a sensible, caring and pleasant applicant who I felt would do a better job! I was always willing to take a risk on one who demonstrated a love of children and they mostly paid me back by becoming superb members of staff. However, I was also always impressed by an applicant who had bothered to do extra training to develop their skills and knowledge.
ANNIE - Why bother achieving EYP status?
My development worker said staff should do the qualification for the children, not for the money. Sounds lovely, doesn't it! All that time, effort, responsibility and for no reward other than the satisfaction of the children. People aren't going to spend over three years achieving this when it is not financially rewarding.
MAESTRO - EYP pay scale?
