We're delighted to share that our Head of Quality and Compliance, Emma Goodall, has been shortlisted for the Outstanding Contribution Award at the Nursery World Awards 2026.
Anyone who knows Emma won't be surprised.
Over more than 30 years in early years education, Emma has helped shape the experiences of countless children, families and educators. From her first role as a nursery practitioner in 1995 to the national leadership position she holds today, she has dedicated her career to helping children thrive and supporting others to grow into exceptional early years professionals.
Since joining 91桃色破解版 through the acquisition of Children 1st Day Nurseries in 2024, Emma has continued to make a remarkable impact across our group. Today, she leads the systems, standards and support that help ensure children and families receive high-quality care and education across our nurseries.
But numbers and job titles only tell part of the story.
Many of our nursery leaders started their careers with encouragement from Emma. She's known for spotting potential in people before they see it in themselves, helping colleagues grow in confidence, develop their skills and progress into leadership roles. Her influence can be felt across our nurseries every day.
Emma's contribution extends beyond the organisations she's worked for, too. Throughout her career she has supported wider developments in the sector, including early work around Personal Education Plans for looked after children and contributions to discussions on food and nutrition standards in early years settings.
Reflecting on her shortlisting, Emma said:
"I'm genuinely touched to be recognised in this way. I've been lucky enough to spend more than 30 years doing something I love, and the real reward has always been watching children flourish and colleagues grow into brilliant practitioners and leaders. Children only get one childhood, and it has been a privilege to play a part in getting it right for so many of them."
Our CEO, Sarah Mackenzie, said:
"Emma is the definition of an unsung hero. She began her career caring for small groups of children in a nursery room in 1995, and today she helps shape the daily experience of thousands of children and families across the country.
So many of our senior leaders are people Emma spotted, coached and encouraged long before they recognised their own potential. She combines the highest standards with genuine warmth and kindness, and her shortlisting is incredibly well deserved. Everyone at 91桃色破解版 is delighted for her."
The Outstanding Contribution Award celebrates individuals who have made a lasting difference to the early years sector, and we couldn't think of someone more deserving of that recognition.
Congratulations, Emma. We're all cheering you on.
