Meet The Deputy Manager: Rosie From Fennies Woking, Carlton Road

We caught up with Rosie, our amazing Deputy Manager at Fennies Woking, Carlton Road. With a hands-on and thoughtful approach, Rosie enjoys creating a nursery environment that feels welcoming and supportive. Her focus on meaningful connections allows every child to develop at their own pace, exploring their interests and achievements in a space where they are celebrated.

In this blog, Rosie reflects on what makes our Woking nursery a place where children can thrive. She shares how she works closely with families, supports her team and delivers enriching experiences for children. From day-to-day activities to the bigger moments of learning and discovery, Rosie explains why attention and enthusiasm are so important in the Early Years.

• Inspiring the Local Community
• Parent Partnerships
• Early Years Curriculum 
• Team Upskilling and Atmosphere
• Childcare Passions
• Upcoming Events

Join Us At Fennies Woking, Carlton Road

If you’re looking for a nursery where your child can thrive and feel valued every day, we’d be delighted to welcome you to our Woking nursery. Our dedicated team and meticulously-designed spaces create a nurturing environment that sparks curiosity and supports development. Families value a place where genuine care and purposeful learning go hand in hand. Early Years practitioners appreciate the supportive, collaborative culture and commitment to excellent practice. 

What’s A Fun Fact About You?

A fun fact about me is that my grandmother opened her own school in 1987, and she’s been a lifelong inspiration for my career in childcare. Watching the dedication and care she gave to her students sparked my interest in Early Years education from a young age. I often think about her influence when I plan activities for the children or support my team, and I love sharing that same passion with everyone at nursery.

What Helps You Stay Connected With Your Communities?

I think it’s really important for children to feel part of the wider world beyond the nursery walls. I make sure we build strong partnerships with parents and local networks. Organising visits and trips outside the nursery is something we plan to do here at Woking as it allows the children to experience new environments, meet new people and understand how they fit into the community. It’s also a way for parents to see how we extend learning beyond the nursery, which I find incredibly rewarding.

What’s Something You Have Loved About Your Early Years Career So Far?

One of the things I love most about my career is seeing children flourish and grow over time. I enjoy noticing their confidence develop and seeing how they respond to new experiences and challenges. I also love working with such a dedicated team and supportive families, they make every day enjoyable and meaningful. Watching children explore and express themselves reminds me why I chose this career and why it continues to be so fulfilling.

What’s Your Ambition To Help Improve The Early Years Sector?

I’m passionate about supporting my team to deliver exceptional care. When the team feels confident and motivated, children benefit from consistent, high-quality experiences. I want to contribute to raising standards in Early Years education by sharing my experience, mentoring colleagues and encouraging innovative practice. Helping my team grow professionally is as important to me as supporting the children, I know both go hand in hand.

How Do You Create Parent Partnerships At Fennies Woking, Carlton Road?

Building strong relationships with parents is something I focus on from their first visit. I take time to listen carefully during welcome meetings and settling-in sessions so I can understand each child’s individual needs. I keep in regular contact through the Famly app, maintain an open-door policy and organise events like coffee mornings to welcome parents into the nursery. I want parents to feel included in their child’s learning journey and reassured that we are supporting them every step of the way.

What’s One Impact You Like To Make On The Team Atmosphere?

I want my team to feel confident and supported in their roles. I encourage them to share ideas and try new approaches, it’s nice to take pride in your work. Seeing my colleagues engaged with the children and celebrating their progress is a sign that everyone is collaborating effectively and that is deeply rewarding. I believe that when the team feels positive and motivated, that energy naturally reflects in the nursery environment and benefits the children and families too.

What’s One Way You Help To Upskill Your Team?

I like to be hands-on with my team, offering guidance and support throughout the day. I do daily walk rounds and provide in-the-moment feedback, helping colleagues navigate different scenarios and challenges. I also run team meetings and training sessions to focus on areas where development would be helpful. My goal is for the team to feel confident asking questions and trying new approaches in a safe and supportive environment.

Why Did You Choose To Work In Early Years Education?

Early Years education has always been a passion of mine. My grandmother’s school was a big influence on me as a child, and I started working with children through babysitting before completing my Level 3 qualifications. I began my career as a Learning Support Assistant and progressed to Deputy Manager. I enjoy seeing children learn from everyday experiences and knowing that I can guide and support them in ways that make a real difference to their confidence, curiosity, and happiness.

What Passions Do You Have Within The Early Years Curriculum?

I’m particularly passionate about children’s personal, social and emotional development, especially through storytelling and reading as I love sharing stories with the children. I enjoy activities that help children regulate their emotions, form strong bonds and develop independence. Sensory play, hands-on exploration and collaborative tasks are all experiences I love facilitating because they encourage creativity, problem-solving and self-expression. 

I also value the reassurance parents feel when they see their children thriving and engaged at nursery. I am very passionate about supporting SEND children and their families, making sure to spend ample amounts of time with them to ensure our learning is tailored to suit their needs. We have a very diverse community here at Fennies Woking and that’s something we take great pride in showcasing.

What Kind Of Leader Are You?

I lead by example, and I like to be hands-on with my team. I show them how to approach tasks while encouraging them to bring their best to every activity. I listen carefully, adjust my guidance when needed and provide practical, meaningful support. I pay attention to detail to maintain high standards across the nursery, while also inspiring the team to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for the children. Importantly, I like to spread positivity and a sense of calmness to ensure my team feels relaxed to perform to those high standards.

What Would You Like To Achieve In The Next Six Months?

Over the next six months, I want to continue building strong parent partnerships and support my team to feel confident in their roles. These both stem from maintaining a safe and happy environment where children love coming to nursery. I’m also looking forward to creating more connections with the local community through visits and activities, and ensuring that every child experiences learning that excites them and helps them grow.

We would also love to make the most of our lovely garden we have available, so incorporating lots of outdoor learning is definitely high on the list of priorities going forward!

What’s Your Favourite Thing About Coming To Work?

The children are definitely my favourite part of the day. Their smiles, excitement and curiosity instantly brighten my day and remind me why I love working in Early Years education. Those moments of joy and connection make every day fulfilling and inspiring.

Do You Have Any Exciting Visits Or Upcoming Partnerships Within The Community Planned?

We have some exciting plans coming up, including a summer BBQ for families and the team to celebrate together. I’m also planning visits to local parks, libraries and community spaces, where children can enjoy storytelling and interactive activities. These experiences allow children to explore new environments where they can connect with others and extend their learning beyond the nursery walls.

What’s The Best Thing About Fennies Woking, Carlton Road?

I love our garden and outdoor spaces, which let in plenty of natural light and give children the freedom to explore and play. I also value our long-standing, friendly team members who help create a welcoming and inspiring environment. Together, these elements make Fennies Woking, Carlton Road a place where children can thrive, learn, and enjoy every part of their Early Years journey.