Jobs

What it's like to work here

 

I joined the University of Nottingham Childcare Services team in September 2014, after having recently acquired my Early Years Teacher Status. Throughout this time I have worked primarily with preschool children, while also having had the opportunity to work with younger children.

My time here has been rewarding and has afforded me opportunities to develop myself professionally in a range of ways. Most prominently, I have been able to qualify as a Forest School Leader, for which I run a session twice a week for preschool children as well as during school holidays for Playscheme children.

The role has also allowed me excellent opportunities for networking with other practitioners throughout Nottingham city via Room Leader Network meetings, the Nottingham City Early Years Conference and other training opportunities.

Working here has provided me a lot of opportunities to develop myself personally also, and my years here have allowed me to expand my confidence in many areas beyond work. As a part of the University of Nottingham this role has opened doors for social activities also, both with staff from the Childcare Services team as well as via Associate Membership of the University of Nottingham Student’s Union.

John Brogan - Early Years Practitioner

 

JW

 

 

GW

I joined the University as an Early Years Practitioner working with children aged 3 to 5 years.  I quickly developed a desire to lead and after an opportunity arose, became a Senior Early Years Practitioner. 

Shortly after when I became a Deputy Childcare Services Manager my passion for leading excellence in early years flourished.  I’d grown as a practitioner and wanted to share my knowledge with others.  As a leader I was able to use skills that would influence, guide and motivate others to reach their potential as well as an outstanding service. 

I had aspirations for an outstanding provision and in 2016 when we received an outstanding rating from Ofsted at the Playcentre, this was achieved. I did not know that when I joined the University of Nottingham Childcare Services 18 years ago that I would have the opportunities and the investment in my development to allow me to become the professional I am today.    

Gemma Wilshaw - Deputy Childcare Services Manager