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How long have you worked in the nursery sector?
I’ve been working in the childcare sectors for 15 years, first starting my career in the sector when I was 16 years old.
I’ve held many positions over the years – I started off as a level two apprentice in a nursery and have worked my way up to now be an area manager of the Wizard Nursery Group. My day-to-day role sees me supporting managers, training staff, and looking after the children.
Alongside my day job, I’m also completing a BA Honours degree in education, policy and practice.

Sum up your typical working day in three words:

Busy, energetic and rewarding.

Why did you choose Connect Childcare?

It’s great value for money, and the support team is second to none.
I cannot fault the software whatsoever, and if you need any help with the system, the customer service department will help immediately. You’re assigned your own consultant too, so it’s always the same person who deals with you.

Describe our nursery management software platform in one word?
To use the Ofsted terminology… ‘Outstanding’.

And your favourite feature?
All of it – but the communication element with ParentZone is a particular highlight for me.
Whether I want to send a short memo or communicate an urgent notice, the platform allows me to quickly and easily converse with all parents – massively improving the efficiency of the process.

What’s your biggest challenge as an area manager?
Trying to be there for everyone – children, staff and parents – at the same time, and in a million different places all at once. No one day is ever the same.

But what do you love most about your job?
I’m a massive people person, so I enjoy building good rapport and long-standing relationships with parents and spending time with the children.

Complete the sentence: ‘Connect’s technology has enabled us to’… (and explain why)
… enhance the knowledge and support in our nursery. It has really helped us to develop and streamline our operations – improving efficiency not only within the rooms, but the business on a wider scale. We’ve also reduced our carbon footprint by getting rid of the paper-based system and replacing it with a digital-first approach.

When you’re not at work, how do you relax?
Normally by going on holiday with my partner to our favourite place, Florida. However, day to day, I enjoy reading about space and watching films.