Interview - Margaret Mason

What further expansion plans does Children 1st have?

We are not pursuing a proactive expansion strategy. We do not go out looking for opportunities but have grown organically through opportunities that arise to us at the right time.

We purchased the two nurseries in Leek, and four nurseries from the Old Station Nursery group in 2014, because their previous owners approached us as their ideal partner. We only decided to proceed once we were sure we had the capacity within the business to take on new nurseries while maintaining our high standards.

We now plan on having a period of consolidation so that we can ensure the management team and staff are able to deliver high-quality care and education without any compromises. When we feel that this has been achieved, we may look at what other opportunities are available.

Is the strategy to remain local to the Midlands and South Yorkshire?

Yes. A key strategy in our business is developing small teams in geographical areas so they can combine resources and support each other easily. While we have geographical hubs, it is important that these are not a long way from the main office in Long Eaton, to help ensure effective communication between head office and the nurseries. This also helps training by ensuring staff and apprentices are not far from the training academy.

Will the settings retain their names?

Buckingham's has a very strong name and reputation in Leek and we will therefore retain the name within the Children 1st branding. The two settings will be known as Children 1st @ Buckingham's Leek and Children 1st @ Leek First School. Both nurseries are on our website in line with our other nurseries, and parents are being informed about our methods of communication and social media.

The Leek nurseries are very-well-designed and equipped, and extensive change is not required. Therefore branding will be subtle, but we will add in our expertise where necessary. For example, we are in the process of adding a new baby room and play area at Children 1st @ Buckingham's Leek.

How do you intend to retain the reputation for hands-on quality?

The nurseries are currently run exceptionally well and have had very strong leadership from the previous owners.

Also, we plan on retaining existing staff to utilise their knowledge, expertise and relationships with local families. The Children 1st team is there to help and support the ongoing development of already very successful nurseries.