Portsmouth nursery workers inspire next generation with exciting careers
A virtual meet and greet was held with two nursery workers on Monday 17 January during Portsmouth Aspirations Week.
The webinar, called Teach Portsmouth presents early years education welcomed parents/carers, young people and professionals, showcasing the range of careers on offer in nurseries, supporting children aged up to four.
Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education said:
“Aspirations Week is a great way to get people thinking about the careers they want. Early years education supports children who are just starting out, teaching them essential life skills that will benefit them for years to come.
“By inviting nursery workers to join the webinar, those watching were able to get a very real look at the rewards and challenges of the job. No career is without challenge but both individuals gave a reassuring account of what people can expect when they join the profession.”
Aspirations Week is a week-long initiative designed to help children, young people and adults learn new skills, achieve qualifications and progress in their career. This supports Portsmouth City Council’s commitment to life-long learning.
Like many professions, becoming a nursery practitioner requires patience, creativity, and care. These soft skills are essential to progress in the sector as you start from an apprentice and work your way up. Those who aspire for more can move into management or even own their own nursery.
Abbie Hendry, who is a nursery manager at Rainbow Corner Nursery shared her experience progressing from an apprentice into a more senior role.
Abbie said:
“Before joining a nursery, I was a hairdresser, but I wasn’t enjoying it. I would work every weekend and didn’t have enough time to see friends and family. A friend had recently joined a nursery and was doing really well. I decided to enrol at a local college on an apprenticeship. I quickly fell in love with the role, especially the interactions I would have between parents and their children.
“Over time, I wanted to move into a more senior position after completing my apprenticeship. I completed a qualification to help children with special educational needs. I’m now the nursery manager – it can be hard work but it is really rewarding.”
James Dyer, a qualified nursery practitioner, who co-owns a nursery, spoke about his background as a teacher in a primary school.
James said:
“For many years, I worked in youth and play services across the city. It was a job I loved but I began to think about a career in teaching. After I completed training, I became a primary school teacher. I really enjoyed the role but an opportunity to join my wife at Southsea Nature Nursery soon came up.
“There was some cross over with my teaching background, but I did have to update my training. I now co-own the nursery and absolutely love it. Outdoor learning for children is important and I’m honoured to be able to provide that service.”
Those who joined the webinar were able to submit questions which were answered during a live Q&A session. Webinar host, Mindy Butler, childcare and early years manager at Portsmouth City Council introduced each speaker and presented information on local training providers in the city.
Mindy said:
“The webinar gave us a chance to showcase what Portsmouth has to offer for unqualified and qualified individuals. From amazing apprenticeships that prepare you for work to a supportive community of nurseries who foster an environment where progression is possible. We hope those who joined us for the webinar found this an exciting start on the road to becoming a nursery practitioner.”
A recording of the webinar is now available to watch on the Teach Portsmouth website. Visit www.teachportsmouth.co.uk/webinar.
Teach Portsmouth work to recruit, retain and grow the best teachers and leaders for Portsmouth. It is part of the Portsmouth Education Partnership which is supported by Portsmouth City Council and education providers across the city.
