In celebration of Father’s Day, we are delighted to highlight the incredible journeys and contributions of our male educators across our nursery schools. Here are inspiring insights from three members of staff, whose dedication and passion play a vital role in shaping young minds and providing diverse role models for our children.
Forest School Leader, Walmley Nursery & Preschool
Jack Pye has dedicated his career to education, transitioning from primary school teaching to early years education. As a Forest School Leader at Walmley Nursery and Preschool, Jack brings a unique perspective to the classroom, emphasising the importance of outdoor learning and risky play. He shares, “Every day, I feel like I make a significant impact on the children’s development and help foster a love for the outdoors. One of the most rewarding experiences is seeing the children’s faces light up with self-accomplishment when they complete a task they initially thought was impossible.”
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Jack believes in the power of male educators to provide consistency and reliability for children, especially those who may lack a male role model at home. His message to families is heartfelt: “Your children are in a nurturing and stimulating environment. We are dedicated to their growth and development, and we feel privileged to be part of their early educational journey.”
Nursery Manager, West End Day Nursery School
Simon Evans’s journey in early childhood education began with a college placement that turned into a passionate career. Over the years, Simon has progressed from a nursery practitioner to a room manager, and now, to a respected nursery manager. Reflecting on his career, Simon says, “I love building relationships with the children and their families. Watching the children develop and grow, celebrating their successes, and knowing we have supported their learning journey is incredibly rewarding.”
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Simon’s advice for aspiring male educators is simple: “Go for it! It is such a fun and rewarding job. The relationships you build with the children, parents, and staff are unmatched. Working with children has been the best decision I ever made, and I would never look back.”
Simon is the nursery manager at West End Day Nursery School.
Level 3 Practitioner, Handkerchief Nursery School
Lee Harvey Atkins’s journey into early childhood education was inspired by his experience at a charity called Messy Tots. Despite facing academic challenges as a neurodivergent male, Lee has found immense fulfilment in his role. He says, “Working in a nursery as a male challenges stereotypes and highlights the importance of diverse role models in early childhood education. It’s a journey of joy, learning, and growth, not just for the children, but for me as well.”
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One of Lee’s memorable moments is watching a group of children under two years old enthusiastically throw and catch balls, surpassing their own expectations. Lee believes that male educators provide a balanced environment where children can benefit from both male and female perspectives, fostering comprehensive development.
Lee is a nursery practitioner at Handkerchief Nursery School.
Join Us in Celebrating Male Educators
We are proud to celebrate the dedication and passion of Simon, Jack, and Lee. Their contributions demonstrate the invaluable role male educators play in early childhood education. This Father’s Day, we honour them and all the wonderful men in our nurseries who help shape young minds.
Are you interested in experiencing our nurturing and engaging environment? Book a tour today! Call us at 0330 333 1080 or email us at enquiry@familyfirstnurseries.com.
Happy Father’s Day from all of us!