Nursery World Awards 2010: Individuals - Newcomer of the Year
Monday, September 27, 2010
WINNER: Julie Johnston, support worker, Sparklers Private Nursery, Gretna, Dumfries and Galloway
It has been a life-changing year for Julie. She's gone from not having the confidence to pursue a career in childcare to gaining employment at her daughter's former nursery and becoming a dedicated member of the staff team.
Her job title may be 'support worker', but Julie demonstrates strong leadership skills and often pushes the team on. She shows great initiative, such as being the driving force behind changing the nursery's sleep area to help babies sleep for longer, raising funds for the outdoor area and finding resources such as wood to build a large tractor and trailer and a small outdoor house.
Julie enthusiastically attends as many in-house courses as possible and has started studying for SVQ Level 3 - a massive step for one who has always doubted her academic abilities. Her achievements have changed the mindset of other staff members and encouraged them to undertake further qualifications. She has organised a staff support evening to discuss coursework and how they can implement ideas in the nursery.
Nominating her for the award, area childcare manager Jackie Bell said, 'In a short period of time Julie has really impressed us and demonstrated that she stands out from the rest. She has inspired parents, children and colleagues by being a caring and positive role model.
'In childcare we need to go that extra mile, and Julie does just that. Nothing is too much trouble for her, and to see her develop and use skills she never realised she had has been truly remarkable.'
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Misbah Acmed, modern apprentice, Little People Montessori, Thornaby, Cleveland
An exceptional rapport with the children in her care combined with motivation have led to Misbah being regarded as the Modern Apprentice who will do anything! Her enthusiasm never wanes and she is passionate about providing outstanding quality childcare.
FINALISTS
Julie Caddick, trainee early years practitioner, Kids Planet, Warrington, Cheshire
Rebecca Canning, trainee early years practitioner, Kids Planet, Lymm, Cheshire
Ben Taylor, nursery practitioner, Willow Cottage Nursery, Witney, Oxfordshire
CRITERION
Open to early years practitioners with less than one year's experience at closing date.
Sponsored by asquith day nurseries
