Derby nursery educator shortlisted amongst the Best in the UK

The Maggie’s Day Nursery & Forest School team at Breadsall in Derby is celebrating success this month with its Senior Nursery Educator and Baby Room Leader, Louise Case, being named as a finalist in the Nursery World Awards.

Across 26 award categories, the Nursery World Awards are the most prestigious accolades in the nursery and early years sector nationally. They provide the opportunity to celebrate and recognise amazing work by those in involved in childcare and education and shine a spotlight on those individuals who make ‘a difference’.

Louise Case, is the Senior Nursery Educator responsible for leading the Baby Unit at Maggie’s Day Nursery and Forest School, caring for up to 18 babies aged three to eighteen months. She leads a team of seven practitioners, ensuring that the environment, routines and care practices meet the highest standards of early years excellence.

The team at Maggies’ felt Louise deserved to be recognised as Nursery Educator of the Year because of her extraordinary natural warmth, dedication, and impact – not in just what she does, but the way she does it. Her love for her role shines through every interaction with babies, parents, and colleagues, constantly exceeding expectations and undertaking voluntary additional learning into child development theories to introduce practical strategies into daily practice.

Laura Wildin, Centre Manager at Maggie’s Day Nursery & Forest School, said: “Louise approaches her role with genuine passion and an energy that is truly infectious. Her impact is felt across every aspect of nursery life her at Maggies. She is enthusiastic, nurturing, and deeply empathetic. Her ability to instantly put babies, parents and colleagues at ease sets the tone for the entire Baby Unit. Families often comment on the warm, secure feeling they experience the moment they enter the room which is a tribute to Louise’s influence.

“With a supportive yet empowering management style Louise leads by example. She truly embodies the ethos of Maggie’s, being nurturing, nature-connected, expert and joyful.

Louise is not only an exceptional practitioner, but she is also a catalyst for positive change, an outstanding role model for the sector and a shining example of what a Nursery Educator should be. We’re so proud that she has been shortlisted for the Nursery Educator of the Year.”

A statement from a grateful parent supported the nomination, saying; “I am not sure I can put into words just how much help and support Louise has been for us over the last 6 months. Despite all the challenges around us, bringing our daughter to nursery has been the best support we could ever hope for. Louise goes above and beyond for us to be flexible and support us a family. I really don’t think we would be where we are today without her support.”

A distinguished panel of industry experts will select winners from those shortlisted. The winners of each category will be announced at a ceremony on Saturday 27th September 2025 at The Brewery, London.

For more information about the Nursery World Awards, visit: https://nurseryworldawards.com/nurseryworldawards2025/en/page/home.