Dedicated staff working with young children in Dorset have been praised for their commitment at an awards ceremony. 

The Early Years and Childcare Awards, organised by Dorset County Council, recognised nurseries, pre-schools and childminders that have been rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted over the last year. 

Awards were also given to individuals who have shown their commitment to improving education and care of children by gaining graduate Early Years Teacher Status and early years degrees.

The event was held at Hethfelton House, an education centre and events venue near Bovington. The centre is run to support the Jim Cronin Memorial Fund set up in memory of Monkey World’s founder. 

The charity’s chief executive Shelley Fletcher spoke at the event about some of the similarities between caring for primates and children including issues such as bullying and neglect, but also encouraging communication and friendships.

Deborah Croney, cabinet member for economy, education, learning and skills said: “I am thrilled that so many dedicated staff have been recognised with these awards. 

“With these devoted practitioners working with children in Dorset, we can really influence children’s emotional, social and intellectual development.”

St Mark’s ‘Little Birds’ Preschool in Swanage was amongst a group of centres awarded for having an outstanding group setting. 

Abby Collins and Megan Wilkins were awarded early years foundation degrees, whilst Karen Richardson won early years teacher status. 

Many were awarded for being outstanding childminders, with others gaining early years degrees. 

Patrick Myers, assistant director for children’s services, presented the awards.

He said: “We know from research that children who attend high-quality childcare achieve better outcomes at school and into adulthood, so this is why it’s so important that settings and individuals are recognised when they exceed the standards and qualifications required”.

Anyone interested in a career in childcare can visit childcarejobsdorset.co.uk, and anyone looking for childcare can search dorsetforyou.com/childcare or call 01305 221066.