I would like to take this opportunity of introducing myself as I feel it is important that parents understand a little bit about my background and my experience in childcare. You need to know that the person in charge has the relevant experience and qualifications to put 'words into practice and support the staff team to deliver a service we believe is unique'.

I have a wealth of experience in childcare and nursery management and have worked in many varied roles over the last 22 years. After spending 5 years as a nanny in Kensington, London caring for 2 boys from birth to 5 years, I moved back to Hull and enjoyed 4 years working with the reception class at Swanland County Primary School as Senior Nursery Nurse. Here I gained experience working with pre-school children and have an excellent knowledge of the educational curriculum for 4-5 year Olds. After leaving Swanland, I moved back to London to work as Deputy Manager of the University College Hospital Workplace Day Nursery for consultants and nursing staff. Alongside my role as Deputy Manager I was also responsible for running a variety of summer and Easter play schemes for 5-12 year Olds for U.C.L.H., The Middlesex Hospital and The Whittington Hospital and later on at Great Ormond Street Hospital for children. My other successes include assisting with setting up a 50 place Day Nursery for the Horton Hospital in Banbury, Oxfordshire.

I hold the St Johns Ambulence First Aid Certificate and have been trained in first aid by Great Ormond Street Paramedics in the 1990's. I am CAF Trained and  have NEBS in Business Management.

Alongside opening my nursery in May 2000, I worked as a consultant for the East Riding Early Years Development Team to provide two pilot Holiday Playschemes in Holme on Spalding Moor and Newport. I also co-ordinated both schemes for 4 weeks in August 2000; with 9 staff.

Since my nursery opened in 2000, its success has gone from strength to strength. We have been reported on BBC online for our excellent service and offered advice and guidance to parents looking for a nursery place. We have also completed an excellent OFSTED inspections (a copy is available for parents at the nursery or from the Ofsted website) were we gained an Outstanding rating in all 17 area's which is a tremendous team achievement and our proudest moment to date!.

The nursery  has completed the Investors in People Award were my commitment to staff training and development is at the forefront of all we do. My staff team stand alongside me every step of the way and they are valued for their contribution and commitment to their work. All staff members are trained to at least level 3 childcare qualification with most staff trained at foundation or degree level.

I have now completed my BA hons in Early Years and graduated this summer with a 2:1 degree which I am thrilled with. I am now progressing to  studying for Early Years Professional Status  which I hope to complete by the end of the year!

From all of my experience in Childcare I  always hoped that one day I would run my own nursery and after plenty of hard work I am! I am happy knowing that I can provide the highest standards of childcare without any doubt! We made a promise when we opened the nursery to be " A Shining Example of Excellent Care" and I have no doubt that we are 11 years later!

My philosophy towards this business is " Small is Beautiful" and that's just how we intend to stay. This way I can ensure that we are delivering a truly unique service to the families who attend The Old School House Nursery and be there every step of the way throughout their child's time with us.

 I shall look forward to meeting you and your child in the near future and to welcome you into the nursery.

Sally Minns