In the moonlight is a chance for us to shine a light on the people who make up Banana Moon. This week we spoke with Joann, the manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery in Baddesley Ensor, who won the Over the Moon award at the Midnight Moon Awards 2022.
I pursued higher education and successfully obtained my Level 6 qualification in June 2017. Subsequently, I joined Baddeley Ensor, where I embarked on a remarkable journey within the organisation. Within my first 12 months at Baddesley Ensor, I started as a nursery practitioner, then progressed to become a room leader, designated safeguarding lead (DSL), and even acted as a deputy manager while the manager was on maternity leave. Upon her return, I officially resumed the role of deputy manager and was eventually promoted to manager in June 2022.
My time at Baddeley Ensor has been incredibly rewarding, primarily because of the children we care for. They exude vitality, and each possesses their own unique qualities. It may sound like a cliché, but we genuinely feel like a family at our nursery. The entire team is exceptionally supportive, and I believe that if I were to work anywhere else, it simply wouldn’t compare to the sense of belonging and camaraderie we share at Baddeley Ensor.
Receiving the Over the Moon Award at the Midnight Moon Awards 2022 after just five months as an official manager was a humbling experience. At first, seeing my name on the board, I thought “do I deserve this?”. However, it gradually dawned on me just how significant a positive impact I had made on our nursery. When they announced me as the winner, I was genuinely in disbelief. I’ve always strived to fulfill my responsibilities to the best of my ability, and it’s heart-warming to know that people took the time to nominate me. When I won the Over the Moon Award, I immediately called my fiancé and shed tears of pride. I had grown into a better version of myself, consistently going above and beyond, often without even realizing it. My commitment to supporting parents and children is unwavering, whether it’s providing comfort during difficult times with flowers and cards or celebrating joyful moments. Being a compassionate human being is at the core of my actions, thinking about what would make others feel better or enhance their celebrations. Even a simple hug or noticing when someone isn’t feeling right can make a world of difference.
Despite occasional moments of self-doubt where I question if I’m doing enough, I remind myself that I earned the award and that our nursery has earned a “good” rating under my management. These accolades serve as a constant reminder of my capabilities and dedication. Our “good” Ofsted grading was yet another positive affirmation that I’m on the right track, supporting our staff, fostering our network, and engaging with our community and families. I am determined to continue building on this foundation, ensuring that our community remains actively involved. Currently, our sights are set on achieving the title of Nursery of the Year, and I have unwavering faith that with our exceptional team, we can make it happen.
