Shaunie Preston talks to the next generation of childcare practitioners

Nursery Assistant Manager Shaunie Preston

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Nursery Assistant Manager Shaunie Preston could have been forgiven for feeling a little nostalgic when she did a question-and-answer session at a recruitment fair at Bury College.

For the Level 2 and Level 3 Childcare students in front of her could almost have been Shaunie herself a few years ago.

Shaunie completed a Level 3 course at the College six years ago. From there she joined Rochdale-based childcare provider Fisherfield Childcare. Shaunie is now Assistant Manager at The Gables day nursery in Bamford and, with the full support of Fisherfield Childcare, is studying towards a Foundation Degree in Early years and Education, at Edge Hill University.

Shaunie was attending the recruitment fair as a representative of Fisherfield Childcare when she was recognised by a former tutor, who asked her to share her experiences with current students.

The aim of the fair was to enable those present-day students, studying for Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas in Childcare, to meet potential employers before they complete their courses in June.

Fisherfield Childcare operates nurseries and out-of-school clubs in 11 settings across Rochdale, Middleton and Bury, including the day nursery at Bury College itself. The college nursery is open to children from the local community as well as those of students at the college.

Sherryl Barratt, the Bury College Nursery Manager said: “Last year, we recruited four Bury College students from this event. This year was a good turnout of high calibre of students. We are pleased many recognise us and wish to apply for a position.”

“We recruit all year round, and we will be extending our Redvales site and therefore are able to take on more staff. We search for people ready to become excellent childcare practitioners and will provide them with highly-commended training, a mentor, excellent facilities and, above all, a great working environment for them to grow in.”

Jennifer Holly, who lectures in childcare at the college and organised the event, said: “We have been very pleased with the support from local employers for this event, both this year and last. Feedback from the students is that they find it really helpful as they complete their training, and last year a significant number of students gained employment through the event. We are hoping for similar success this year, and this will continue to be an annual event for our students.”

One former Bury College student now working at Fisherfield Childcare is Hayley Collinge.

Hayley, 20, works at Fisherfield Childcare’s The Gables Day Nursery, in Bamford, Rochdale, caring for children aged between three months and two-and-a-half years. She said her experiences with Fisherfield Childcare and on a previous placement arranged through Bury College have helped to bring her out of herself and build her confidence.

She said: “Childcare is a rewarding career, as I get to watch the children grow, and the work is interesting. I look forward to coming to work, every day is different, and I know I can have a positive impact on every child.”