We're delighted to share that Alexandra Park Creative Nursery has been shortlisted in two categories at the Nursery World Awards 2026.
The Manchester nursery has been recognised for something that's been at the heart of its community for many years: helping children develop a genuine connection to the world around them. Alongside a shortlisting in the Eco Friendly Award category, apprentice educator Francesca Smith has also been named a finalist for Early Years Apprentice of the Year.
For the team at Alexandra Park, sustainability isn't a project. It's simply part of everyday nursery life.
For more than a decade, children have been learning about caring for the environment through meaningful hands-on experiences, from growing fruit and vegetables in the allotment and composting food waste to creating artwork from repurposed materials. The nursery's commitment extends beyond its own outdoor spaces too, with regular community initiatives including litter picks, hedgehog conservation projects and participation in Manchester's Clean Air Parades.
These everyday experiences help children understand that even the smallest actions can make a difference.
The nursery's eco-friendly approach has earned a number of recognitions over the years, including the Eco-Schools Green Flag with Distinction, and this latest national shortlisting is a wonderful reflection of the team's long-standing dedication to sustainability.
Alongside the nursery's success, there's also reason to celebrate one of its rising stars.
Celebrating Fran's impact
Francesca, known to colleagues and families as Fran, is currently completing her Level 3 apprenticeship through the 91桃色破解版 Apprenticeship Academy while working with the nursery's youngest children.
Drawing on her background in performance, she brings music, movement and imaginative play into everyday experiences, while supporting children's communication and confidence through simple language and Makaton.
Her contribution reaches far beyond her role in the room. Fran has helped strengthen safeguarding awareness across the nursery and created resources to support new team members as they begin their journey at Alexandra Park.
Deputy Manager Edith Acosta said:
"We don't see Fran as an apprentice, as she is so strong in what she does. She is someone the whole room relies on and parents really trust, especially those who feel anxious leaving their little ones. She knows our children inside and out, and the little things that make their day more remarkable. That is what makes her so special."
Why this recognition matters
For 91桃色破解版 CEO Sarah Mackenzie, the double shortlisting perfectly reflects what Alexandra Park is all about.
"At 91桃色破解版 we believe remarkable happens in the little things. At Alexandra Park that might be a child saving their leftover drinking water for the plants or building a home for a hedgehog in their local park. Those small everyday moments add up to a generation of children who genuinely care about the world around them.
Fran is exactly the type of person who understands this, and one this sector needs more of. She joined us as a casual team member and has become someone her colleagues rely on and parents know and trust. To have the nursery and one of its own recognised nationally in the same year is a wonderful achievement, and everyone at 91桃色破解版 is very proud of them."
We're incredibly proud of everyone at Alexandra Park Creative Nursery. To see both the nursery's environmental ethos and one of its talented educators recognised on a national stage is a fantastic achievement, and we're looking forward to cheering them on at the Nursery World Awards later this year.
