Aicha

Ofsted Registered Person and Lead Manager

SENCo and Child Protection Lead

Languages: French, Fullah, Susu, Mandinka and English

Aicha brings a wealth of expertise to her role, with extensive experience in working with children, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Initially trained in Social Sciences within the French education system, she later pursued studies in Business Management at University before transitioning into teaching. Over the past 15 years, Aicha has acquired numerous Childcare Qualifications and certifications, establishing herself as a Childcare Consultant, Child Protection Trainer, and SEND Mentor. Beyond her professional endeavours, she actively supports nursery owners and managers in creating safe environments and delivering high-quality care to children. With a deep passion for children's well-being, Aicha collaborates with charities, schools, and orphanages to further enrich the lives of children and young people. As a mother of three and a Special Guardian to three others, she understands the importance of nurturing and supporting children in various contexts. Outside of her roles as a parent and professional, Aicha enjoys an array of hobbies, including traveling, open-water diving, cooking, skiing, horse riding, and swimming. Known for her humour, warmth, and approachability, she brings positivity and laughter to every interaction.

Rachael

Branch Manager and 3rd In Charge

Designated Child Protection and Health & Safety Officer

Language: English

Rachael is an integral part of our Leadership Team, bringing exceptional expertise in Child Development and creating enriching learning environments for children. With nine years of experience, she initially served as a Class Teacher in primary schools before transitioning to our Early Years Team. In her previous role, Rachael excelled as a Subject Leader, overseeing the academic development of year 3 students. She is passionate about fostering creativity, both musically and artistically, and enjoys spending quality time outdoors with loved ones during her leisure hours.

Julija

Area Manager and 2nd In Charge

Designated Behaviour Support and SEND Senior Officer

Languages: Russian, Latvian and English

Julia is a fervent, well-informed, and committed member of our Leadership Team. Initially, Julia became part of our community as a parent before officially joining our team in 2016. Prior to this, she accrued valuable experience as a Primary School Teaching Assistant while pursuing her Education Degree at Leeds University. Passionate about outdoor play, Julia firmly believes in the importance of real-life experiences for children's learning. Beyond her professional role, she cherishes moments spent with her two children, family, and friends. Julia's interests extend to traveling, cycling, tennis, crafting, and gardening.

Bia

Our Employee of the Term - Autumn 2023

This term, Bia has been recognised with the highest staff nomination. Her dedication and commitment to our children, especially those who speak French as an additional language, have been evident over the past months. Throughout the day, she engages the children with singing and dancing, always attentive to their needs and offering plenty of cuddles. Many children have formed strong bonds with her and eagerly participate in her activities. Bia demonstrates exceptional care and regard for children with additional needs. Thank you, Bia, for your invaluable contributions!

Jeanne

Our Employee of the Term - Summer 2023

Jeanne has achieved an Outstanding score in Safeguarding during her last two supervisions, making her only the second person ever to receive this rating from our Lead Manager in almost two decades. Yes, our Lead Manager can be quite discerning, lol! Jeanne has been with us for nearly ten years, starting as a volunteer at just 14 years old and continuing to contribute after high school. Last year, she graduated from Leeds University, a milestone we are incredibly proud of. Well done, Jeanne! Keep up the excellent work!

Our Employee of the Term - Spring 2023

Carla, affectionately known as Auntie Carla, has been a valued member of our team since 2015. Serving as our Chef, she has consistently earned a "5 Star" Food Hygiene rating on every inspection for nearly a decade. Carla takes pride in preparing healthy and delicious meals inspired by cuisines from around the world for our children. Beyond her culinary talents, Carla actively engages with the children in the rooms, often singing Portuguese songs and nursery rhymes while offering meals. Her presence is particularly comforting for children who speak Portuguese as their first language, as she helps ease their transition into our nursery. Carla's dedication extends beyond the kitchen as she wholeheartedly supports the team. Parents have shared that their children eagerly anticipate seeing her and fondly recount the cooking and baking activities they enjoy together. One parent expressed, "Carla is a deeply caring and fun member of staff who has continually expanded her knowledge and English skills. Whenever she's around, we know there's bound to be fun!" Thank you, Carla, for your unwavering dedication and contributions to our nursery community!

Carla

Katelan

Our Employee of the Term - Autumn 2022

Katelan began her journey with us as a college student completing her placement before earning her Level 3 childcare qualification and joining our team permanently. This term, Katelan has been recognised with over 80% of staff nominations, marking her as the recipient of the highest number of nominations within a given period. Parents consistently commend Katelan for her thoughtful communication, as she takes the time to provide detailed updates about their child's day, bringing immense joy to families as they hear about their child's experiences at nursery. Katelan's commitment to our nursery is evident in her dedicated support for the preschool children, engaging them in enriching and enjoyable daily activities. She approaches feedback with openness and determination, diligently implementing suggestions from staff observations to ensure she delivers outstanding teaching to the children.

Congratulations, Katelan, on your well-deserved recognition! Keep up the exceptional work!

     Our Employee of the Term - Summer 2022

Riz has been an integral part of our team since 2017. This term, she has demonstrated exceptional dedication to her professional growth by diligently pursuing her Personal Development Plan. Riz has successfully completed all agreed training to support her Professional Development and has taken the admirable step of pursuing a higher childcare qualification, set to commence in September. We are incredibly proud of her commitment to advancing her skills and knowledge in the field of childcare. Moreover, Riz has played a vital role in mentoring the college students to successfully complete their childcare qualification, showcasing her capacity to support and nurture others in their professional journey. In addition to her commitment to personal development, Riz has exhibited strong leadership qualities, particularly in the absence of the Manager. She has taken on lead responsibilities with a focus on ensuring that established procedures are meticulously followed to uphold the smooth operation of the setting and the safety of all children under our care. Parents have consistently praised Riz for her politeness and warm demeanour, with many expressing that their children eagerly anticipate nursery days when they know Riz will be there to welcome them.

Congratulations, Riz, on your outstanding achievements and contributions to our nursery community!

Rizwana

Alisha

     Our Employee of the Term - Spring 2022

Alisha has been an invaluable member of our team for several years, having begun her journey with us as an apprentice. Last year, she achieved her Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People Workforce, a testament to her dedication and hard work. Since joining us, Alisha has consistently demonstrated outstanding knowledge and expertise. This term, she has particularly excelled in her interactions with parents and in supporting children in their learning and development. Her confidence and professionalism in these areas have been commendable. Alisha's commitment to continuous improvement is evident in her proactive approach to expanding her skills and knowledge. This term, she took the initiative to complete her Food Hygiene training and renewed her Paediatric First Aid certificate without needing reminders. Additionally, she has successfully completed all the courses outlined in our Staff Training Plan. Alisha's proactive attitude, dedication, and commitment to personal and professional growth are truly commendable.

You are a star, and we are grateful to have you as part of our team! Keep up the fantastic work!

Taminah

     Our Employee of the Term - Autumn 2021

Taminah has been an integral part of our team since 2013, and her dedication and commitment to our children's well-being have been exemplary. This term, she has continued to demonstrate an abundance of care and patience in her interactions with all our children, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for their growth and development. In addition to her outstanding care, Taminah has shown remarkable dedication to her professional development. She has consistently taken feedback constructively, demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow. Taminah has successfully completed her training requirements and has taken on important responsibilities independently, contributing to the smooth running of our daily routines and tasks. Taminah's unwavering commitment and proactive approach to her role are truly exemplary. Her dedication to both the children and her professional development are evident, and we are incredibly proud to have her as part of our team.

Well done, Taminah!

Fina

Our Employee of the Term - Summer 2021

Since joining us in 2019, Fina has exhibited an unwavering commitment to our children, particularly those with Special Educational Needs (SEN). This term, she has gone above and beyond in her support, demonstrating a deep dedication and passion for ensuring every child's needs are met. Fina's thoughtful planning of engaging activities, particularly in Spanish, has provided our children with enriching learning experiences. Additionally, her vigilant supervision has ensured the safety and well-being of all the children under her care. Fina, your dedication to supporting our children with SEN is truly commendable, and we are grateful for your invaluable contributions to our team. Thank you for your hard work and commitment.

That in June 2023, we celebrated our 10th year anniversary?

Throughout the years, we have had the privilege of providing care to hundreds of children and welcoming families from various communities in Leeds, Wakefield, Bradford, Harrogate, and Sheffield. Our dedication has always been to offer children exceptional care and education, while championing diversity and inclusion throughout our curriculum.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the families who have entrusted us with the care of their children and supported us on this journey. Your trust and support mean the world to us, and we are honored to be a part of your children's lives. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your family's story.

Our staff qualifications span from qualified Teachers to Level 2 in childcare. We are committed to continuous improvement, with all unqualified staff and those with a Level 2 qualification actively pursuing further childcare qualifications. Additionally, the majority of our Level 3 qualified staff are dedicated to advancing their qualifications even further.

All our staff working directly with the children are Paediatric First Aid trained