Our People: Meet Chelsey, Third in Charge

At Grandir UK, we are proud to have nursery teams of authentic and committed employees, whose friendly faces work as one to create a stimulating, nurturing environment where children mentally and physically thrive every day. 

This month, we would like to shine a light on Chelsey a recently promoted Third in Charge at our Kiddi Caru Day Nursery and Preschool in Colchester.

Chelsey has been with the Grandir UK for nearly five years and began her career as a Level 3 Apprentice. We recognise the importance of our people and provide support for their own professional development.

Chelsey commented: “I am so lucky to have a strong management team who recognise my hard work and dedication, I look forward to my many years at Kiddi Caru Colchester!”

We spoke to Chelsey to learn more about what it’s like to work in early years and about her career journey so far. Read on to learn more.

What inspired you to work in early years?

“I have always aspired to have a career in early years, I had previous knowledge from doing childcare at college, however I wanted to progress in a work-based environment, and found that here at Colchester.”

When did you start your journey at Kiddi Caru Colchester?

“I joined on the 20th of August 2018, I had built up my experience from placement with college and found that I thrived better with hands on experience, the apprenticeship programme seemed to be the perfect fit for me.”

What do you really enjoy about your role?

“I really enjoyed helping children to learn and develop through play, unfortunately my apprenticeship programme did last a little longer than expected due to the COVID-19 outbreak, during which time, my tutor was supportive and approachable and allowed me to adapt my learning journey to what was occurring around us globally and the impact this virus had on young children.”

What is a typical day like in your role?

“No day is the same, however it brings new challenges and I find myself thinking of fun and exciting ways to enhance the children’s interests.”

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

“The most rewarding part of my job is creating secure bonds with the children, staff and families in my care. Without these we are unable to create a foundation where we can support children and their learning and development, but it is also the support in which the staff and management team offer to me.”

Do you have any advice to anyone thinking of starting a career in childcare?

“If you really want to achieve you have to follow through with what you want to achieve, hard work always pays off.”

What are you doing/what do you plan on doing for your wellbeing day?

“I have 2 nieces, who will most likely want to spend a day with their auntie Chels.”

We are thankful to each of our nursery teams for their care, support, and hard work every day.

Feeling inspired? You could be a part of an environment like this, follow the links below to find out more:

• Working with us
• Apprenticeships
• Professional Development
• Careers news