Liz Roberts to leave Nursery World after 26 years

Liz joined Nursery World in 1996 as Features Editor and in 1997 became Editor of what was then a weekly magazine. She has overseen its editorial development into a brand with a major digital presence through its website and social media channels, plus online and face-to-face events and resources, including the Nursery World Awards, conferences, webinars, EYFS Essentials training videos and Exchange business meetings for nurseries and suppliers.

In April 2021, she moved to a part-time role as Editor-in Chief, overseeing editorial operations as well as focusing on new developments and brand extensions.

Liz has steered Nursery World through many major changes to the media landscape and 15 children’s ministers, always keeping its great reputation as the early years sector’s voice and provider of news, information, advice and best practice at the forefront, and ensuring huge loyalty to the brand. She has been a member of sector working groups, a trustee of Daycare Trust and currently CREC (a role she will continue to fill), chaired many conferences and has frequently been asked to commentate on early years matters by TV, radio and national press.

Liz started her journalistic career on Building magazine and became Editor of Media Week, before spending several years as a freelance journalist after the birth of her daughter. This included a weekly column on the Parents page of the Guardian that ran for two years.

Liz said, ‘I have had many incredibly rewarding years on Nursery World, working with and for a sector that is so passionate and dedicated to supporting young children and their families - the most important work there is. It has always been worthwhile through the most challenging of times, and I hope to have made a difference, however small.

‘I am privileged to have met some wonderful people, had some fantastic experiences and to have worked with a brilliant team too. I feel it is now time to step back and focus more on my own interests such as music and gardening, although I want to keep in touch with the sector, of course. The early years will always be close to my heart.’

Ravi Chandiramani, Managing Director of MA Education, which publishes Nursery World, said: ‘Liz has nurtured Nursery World through momentous times for both the early years and the media with a passion for supporting the sector with the very best information, whether in print, online or through our events. But she has certainly earned her right to spend more time with her family, her plants, her band and her ukulele!

‘While we will miss Liz, we are fortunate to have a hugely talented team ensuring Nursery World remains the leading title for the early years and always in tune with the sector’s needs.’

Nursery World team changes

Karen Faux, who became Nursery World’s Editor last year, will be leading on projects including Nursery World Awards and conferences that were under Liz’s remit.

Karen has also made some changes to Nursery World’s editorial team, taking effect at the beginning of 2023. 

Catherine Gaunt, who is currently News and Online Editor is promoted to Deputy Editor and Katy Morton, who is currently Deputy News Editor, is promoted to News Editor. Hannah Crown returned from maternity leave earlier this year in her new role as Features Editor.

Karen says, ‘I’m very sad to see Liz leave Nursery World and it has been brilliant to work with her over the years. She is leaving the title in a strong position, and we have a very experienced and talented team in place to develop Nursery World across all its existing activities – and to look at exciting new opportunities as well.’