Nursery staff, childminders, and early years teachers with over 20 years of service have been recognised for their incredible, long-serving contributions to the lives of children and families in Bristol.
A special celebration held at City Hall earlier this month honoured childcare and nursery workers who play a vital role in laying the foundation for every child’s education.
Research shows that what happens in the first five years of a child’s life is vital for their later education, health and wellbeing, and nursery staff, childminders and early years teachers are key during this period.
Bristol’s early years educators have shown commitment to children in the city, such as during the Covid-19 pandemic, where nurseries and early years centres remained open for vulnerable children and children of key workers.
Speaking about the event, Councillor Christine Townsend, chair of the Children and Young People Committee, said “Your dedication as nursery and childcare workers is a gift that leaves an indelible mark on the lives of the children and families you serve.
“Thank you for being a pillar of support, a source of inspiration and a beacon of love in the lives of the children whom you have cared for.”
The early years sector in Bristol is thriving and growing, as more parents take advantage of the newly expanded funded childcare offer from the government. Working families can find out more about their funded childcare entitlements via the Bristol City Council webpage Free childcare for under 5s.
Working in early years and childcare is a rewarding career and offers a supportive professional community with lots of opportunity for career development and progression. The Do Something Big campaign provides lots of information for anyone interested or they can find out more via their local job centre.