Webinar Recap: Bringing Back Your Nursery Team’s Sparkle (And Yours Too) – Part 2
Welcome to part 2 of our recap from the webinar ‘Bringing Back Your Nursery Team’s Sparkle (And Yours Too!)’. In this post, we’ll explore fantastic insights from Jamie Victoria, the Childcare Guru, all about the role of leadership in early years settings. Discover how thoughtful leadership can help both you and your team rediscover your sparkle! If you couldn’t join us live, don’t worry—you can catch up anytime by clicking here.
Reflecting on your leadership style
Jamie encouraged us to take a step back and reflect on what kind of leaders we are. It’s so easy to get swept up in the busyness of nursery life, but pausing to think about our strengths and areas where we might need support can make a huge difference to our teams—and ourselves!
She asked us to consider two simple but powerful questions:
- What are you good at?
- What could you use help with?
Nobody is perfect, and that’s okay! Great leadership isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about recognising where you shine and where others might step in to help. Acknowledging your own areas for growth shows self-awareness and creates an environment where everyone’s strengths can shine.
Leadership with heart
Jamie shared an inspiring perspective, reminding us that being a leader isn’t about control or simply “being the boss.” Instead, leadership is a privilege that should be approached with care, empathy, and respect. The most effective leaders nurture their teams, empowering each person to feel confident and capable.
In one touching story from her early days as a manager, Jamie talked about supporting a nervous room leader. Through encouragement and teamwork, she watched this individual blossom into their role with growing confidence. It was a powerful reminder of how belief and positive reinforcement can help others grow and succeed.
Be present and lead from the centre
Leadership isn’t about hiding away in an office or giving instructions from a distance. Jamie reminded us that being visible and approachable is so important. By leading from the centre—joining in on day-to-day activities and showing you’re part of the team—you can build trust and respect.
Role modelling is a key part of this. When your team sees you living the values you promote, they’re more likely to follow suit.
The power of communication
Good communication is at the heart of effective leadership. Jamie highlighted how clear, open conversations create an environment where everyone feels heard and valued.
It’s easy to bottle up frustrations or ideas, but constructively sharing them helps your team work together to solve problems. A team that communicates well is a team that succeeds!
Focus on solutions
Another gem from the webinar was adopting a “solution-focused” mindset. Instead of getting stuck on problems, Jamie encouraged us to look for ways to fix them.
For example, if something isn’t working—like a daily routine—try brainstorming solutions with your team instead of dwelling on the frustration. This positive, forward-thinking approach not only improves processes but also boosts team morale and encourages adaptability, which is essential in the fast-moving world of early years care.
We hope this quick, bite-sized recap of the webinar has been helpful! That said, we strongly recommend watching the full session to fully absorb Jamie’s key points—it’s packed with detail and truly inspiring.
In the next part of our recap (part 3), we’ll delve into Jamie’s advice on how to “fill your bucket,” helping you lead with energy, positivity, and enthusiasm.
And finally, if you missed Part 1 of the recap, you can catch up here.
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About the Author
Content Marketing Executive at Connect Childcare