Birmingham Day Nurseries are delighted to share some wonderful news. Rebecca Slater, manager of The Oaks, has been awarded Nursery Manager of the Year 2018 by the National Day Nurseries Association.

The NDNA is a national charity which aims to enhance the development and education of children in their early years. It trains thousands of early years and childcare practitioners every year, and seeks to develop, encourage and maintain high standards in education and care for the benefit of children, their families and their local communities.

To win Nursery Manager of the Year, the recipient needed to be nominated by their colleagues, along with clear evidence of how their outstanding work and personal contribution has made a difference to children, families and colleagues.

Becky was singled out for her boundless enthusiasm, empathy, passion and professionalism.

She began her time at the Oaks as a Nursery Practitioner, but her proactive approach and dedication soon brought opportunities to take on more responsibility: first as Deputy Manager in 2011, then as Nursery Manager in 2013. Since then she’s spearheaded the Pollination Project, and her love of learning outdoors has become part of the Birmingham Day Nurseries ethos. Her excellent partnership work has raised money for Molly Olly’s Wishes, Children in Need and Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Her personal creativity and enthusiasm for finding new ways to work creates wonderful outcomes for the children, and inspires her staff. She finds solutions to every challenge with positivity, care and thoughtfulness for all those involved.

“I feel extremely grateful that my colleagues took the time to nominate me for the award, and I of course feel extremely proud that I am the NDNA Manager of the Year 2018. The response from colleagues, both at the setting and beyond, and parents’ lovely comments congratulating me on my award just makes everything worthwhile.” – Rebecca Slater

Everyone at Birmingham Day Nurseries is immensely proud of Becky’s achievement. Congratulations, Becky!