We believe that the education and quality of our staff team has a direct impact on the quality of care and education we provide.
The quality of our staff team begins with a rigorous recruitment process, which ensures we recruit high calibre personnel qualified with a minimum NVQ level 3 or equivalent in a childcare related subject. Senior managers are qualified up to degree level and may hold the coveted Early Years Professional status.
Shortlisted candidates are invited to interview and are asked a wide variety of questions on all aspects of childcare and education as well as their background experience in childcare.
Successful candidates are normally invited back for a second practical interview where they have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in working with children and staff within our nursery environment. References are obtained and any other qualifying background information is considered.
On appointment new staff are offered a thorough induction to ensure familiarity with the nursery’s policies and procedures. All staff are required to undertake suitability background checks including searches on any criminal records or other records indicating they may not be suitable to work with children. New staff are also required to provide evidence of identity and eligibility to work in the UK and are also asked to provide evidence in support of educational qualifications.
New employees are initially shadowed by another staff member and are usually subject to a 3 month probationary period.
Staff learning and development is continuous through ongoing on-the-job training as well as through training courses delivered by specialist training providers and which take place both inside and outside of the nursery. Staff are monitored and appraised on a regular basis and have the opportunity also to provide feedback and suggestions for continuous professional development.