Meet Our Exceptional Nursery Team
At Toddlers’ University, our staff are more than childcare providers — they’re dedicated early years educators, mentors, and role models who make every day safe, fun, and inspiring for your child.
We believe a nurturing nursery starts with a nurturing team, which is why we carefully select, train, and support every staff member.
Our Recruitment Promise
We recruit only the most passionate and qualified professionals:
Minimum NVQ Level 3, or equivalent, in Early Years Education (a few are in training)
Some senior staff hold Early Years Professional Status or university-level qualifications
Proven experience in child development, safeguarding, and inclusive care
Genuine enthusiasm for creating positive early learning experiences
Every applicant undergoes a multi-stage process:
In-depth interview covering experience, values, and safeguarding knowledge
Practical assessment in our nursery, interacting with children and supporting our team
Full background checks, qualification verification, and right-to-work confirmation
Support from Day One
New staff members join a structured induction programme:
Paired with an experienced mentor for guided learning
Shadowing in all nursery rooms to understand routines and expectations
Three-month probation to ensure confidence and alignment with our caring ethos
Committed to Continuous Growth
We believe the best educators never stop learning. Our staff benefit from:
Ongoing training and CPD in early years education, health & safety, and safeguarding
In-house collaboration to share best practices and creative teaching ideas
External courses with recognised training providers
Regular performance reviews to celebrate strengths and set development goals
Meet Some of Our Amazing Team
Tanya – Nursery Manager, Ilkeston
With over 15 years in early years education, Tanya leads our Ilkeston nursery with warmth and vision. She holds a NVQ Level 5 qualification in Early Years Education and is passionate about outdoor play and nature-based learning.
Adele – Nursery Manager, Beeston
Adele has 15+ years’ childcare experience. With a NVQ Level 4 in Early Years Childcare, she has a knack for making learning fun through music and movement. She ensures our daily routines run smoothly and supports staff development.
Kirsty – Deputy Manager and Pre-School Leader, Ilkeston
Kirsty specialises in caring for children aged 3–5 years, preparing our “pre-schoolies” for a confident transition to school, blending structured learning with imaginative play. She has over 10 years’ experience in early years education and has a Level 3 NVQ qualification. She creates a calm and loving space for little ones to explore at their own pace.
Sereta – Deputy Manager and Toddler Room Lead Practitioner, Beeston
Sereta runs our Toddler Room for 2-year-old children. With over 15 years’ experience and a Level 3 qualification in Early Childhood studies, she creates a calm and loving space for little ones to explore at their own pace.
What Parents Say About Our Staff
“I personally want to thank all teachers of Toddlers’ University for taking such good care of R. He loved the nursery and I am glad he got to spend his time under good care of all the lovely teachers. I wish I had put him in this nursery earlier!” – Pooja, Parent, July 2025
“Your patience, creativity and genuine care have made a lasting impact on our child’s early years.” – D, Parent, July 2025
Why Our Team Makes a Difference
Your child’s happiness, safety, and development are our top priorities. With a team that’s qualified, experienced, and genuinely caring, you can trust that every day at Toddlers’ University is filled with encouragement, learning, and fun.