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In our journey exploring the luminaries of the early years industry, we’ve come across some truly inspiring individuals. Among them is the remarkable Jordan Tully. A passionate advocate for early childhood education, Jordan’s dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. We are thrilled to share that he’s been recognised as an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist. This esteemed nomination celebrates the best in our field, and it’s a testament to Jordan’s unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of children and their families.
Jordan’s remarkable journey in the childcare and education sector, leading to his esteemed position as an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, provides a rich tapestry of experiences and insights that many can draw inspiration from. The fusion of familial ties, formal education, and an adventurous spirit has made him a standout candidate for the NMT Awards 2023, reflecting his life dedicated to making a difference in young lives.
Jordan’s early days in the family-owned nursery were foundational: “I started my childcare journey working for my family’s privately-owned nursery, a small setting…”
This environment was more than just an introduction to a career; it was an immersion into a legacy. Jordan, aiming to follow in the footsteps of his grandmother, a successful owner of her childcare setting, reminisced, “Growing up I can always remember how hard-working my grandmother was… she was passionate and driven, everything I knew I wanted to be.”
While shaping himself as a deserving NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, Jordan in the family’s nursery did not merely rely on ancestral knowledge. Emphasising the importance of formal education combined with hands-on experience, he remarked, “I did my Level 3 through an apprenticeship scheme which allowed me to get on-the-job experience with children whilst learning and working towards my Level 3 qualification.” His commitment to structured learning while gaining real-world experience demonstrates the duality of his approach to childcare.
The journey to becoming an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist wasn’t a linear path for Jordan. After obtaining his qualification, an inherent wanderlust combined with a desire for broader life experiences led him to the travel sector. Reflecting on this phase, he said, “I started to consider if this was what I wanted for myself at that point… so I looked at my options and joined a travel company as a childcare representative at the travel company.”
This adventure was instrumental in his growth, shaping him into the NMT Awards 2023 Finalist we recognise today. Returning with a trove of knowledge and diverse experiences, Jordan’s journey culminated in his current role as Head of Operations, marking nearly five years of dedicated service and leadership in the realm of childcare and education.
Jordan’s journey in the childcare industry is deeply rooted in the inspiration he drew from close personal connections, specifically his grandmother.
“My Grandmother was […] everything I knew I wanted to be. Growing up, I can always remember how hard working my Grandmother was, she owned her own successful childcare setting, and she was passionate and driven.”
As an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, Jordan often reflects on the indomitable spirit of his grandmother.
“My Grandmother didn’t open her first setting until she had retired from her midwifery job within the NHS at the age of 55.”
This remarkable milestone in her life seems to have been a significant source of inspiration for Jordan, urging him to question his own limitations and potential.
He says, “I still look back now and think, if she could do this at 55, then what’s stopping me from chasing my dreams? What is stopping me from having the same drive and determination? There isn’t anything stopping me is there? Only myself!”
Jordan’s grandmother’s journey served as a testament to the fact that age is no barrier to chasing one’s dreams. Her transition from a midwife to opening her own childcare setting post-retirement serves as a motivational reminder of perseverance, passion, and relentless pursuit of dreams, regardless of age. Drawing from this, and reflecting on his NMT Awards 2023 Finalist status, Jordan encapsulates the essence of his learning: “So I decided to go out there and start chasing my dream and start achieving my goals.”
In essence, Jordan’s journey towards becoming an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist has his grandmother’s legacy playing a pivotal role in shaping his professional journey, serving as a beacon of inspiration, determination, and unwavering ambition.
In an industry dominated by females, Jordan stands out not only for his exceptional skills but also because of his unique perspective as a male. Here’s what he has to say about his experiences and insights.
“To be nominated in itself is such an honour, and then to be shortlisted as an NMT Awards 2023 finalist for the category is just a real wow for me. Further to the pride I feel with being nominated, to be the only male also in the category is something I am super proud of, to bring some positive representation to the 3% of men who work in the childcare sector.”
This nomination, while a nod to Jordan’s outstanding work, also shines a light on the gender imbalance prevalent in the early years sector.
Jordan delves into how stereotypes play a role: “To be completely honest I think this actually is a bigger question than just the category, I think that there is a sector imbalance, which in turn is also going to create an imbalance in almost everything that is done because there simply is a lot less males that work in the sector when compared to female. Due to this imbalance in the wider sector, I think that does generally play a part as to why we might see fewer males nominated for awards, or speaking at events and so on, not because there is a bias or anything fueled by malice, but more down to the fact that there is simply fewer males in the sector.”
“I feel that at times, and of course this is not necessarily in every setting, there is still some prejudice about men who work in early years and childcare. I have been so fortunate to have not felt disadvantaged or up against any challenges. I am hoping that as we continue to move forward, we will see less and less prejudice towards men in the sector.”
Jordan is steadfast in his belief in collaboration and openness in a working environment, holding them paramount for effective teamwork and leadership. As an esteemed NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, he firmly emphasises the importance of an open and honest culture. He asserts, “Teamwork is so important to me! A collaborative approach within an open and honest culture is a non-negotiable for me.”
He also speaks to the importance of creating an environment where staff feels safe to express themselves, saying, “I think that it’s so important to create an environment that all of my staffing teams feel 100% comfortable and confident to openly discuss how they are feeling, but also to feel that they can contribute ideas and suggestions without fear of being shut down or like they are not being listened to.”
Furthermore, as a testament to his recognition as an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, Jordan acknowledges the significance of the people surrounding him throughout his journey, conveying a clear sentiment of gratitude and respect towards those who have mentored and supported him. He recalls the many roles he undertook, from an Early Years Educator to the Head of Operations, and how he was always supported: “I think that it’s very important to be supported by your line leader and mentors, but I also believe that I would not be where I am today or be able to progress like I have if I didn’t have such supportive teams around me within each of my roles too.”
Jordan emphasises the role of understanding and alignment in professional growth. As the Head of Operations, he believes in understanding the individual goals of his team members, both short-term and long-term. He states, “In my role as a Head of Operations I believe that a massive part of my role is ensuring that my team that I directly manage, being the regional managers, feel like they are supported. I always try to ensure that I have a good understanding of my team’s short-term and long-term goals.” By having this knowledge, he can then ensure his staff achieves their goals and targets.
Furthermore, as an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, Jordan’s leadership approach is one of inclusivity, engagement, and empowerment. His teams play an essential role in the daily operations and initiatives, as they constantly collaborate, celebrate each other’s ideas, and engage in open discussions. He emphasises, “We are very much a team, a community, a village as such. We empower each other, we celebrate each other’s ideas and suggestions, we trial and error together, we engage in open discussions and that really enables me to be the leader that I am today.”
Jordan’s dedication to fostering a supportive work environment, along with his strategies for nurturing the growth of his staff, reflects his genuine passion for childcare, his deep respect for the people he works with, and his commitment to achieving both individual and organisational objectives.
Jordan’s exceptional contributions to the childcare industry, which recently culminated in his recognition as an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, have been nothing short of remarkable. Not only has he played an instrumental role at Ashbourne Day Nurseries, but his personal journey and achievements stand testament to the dedication and passion he brings to the sector.
One of Jordan’s most commendable achievements, making him a strong contender for the NMT Awards 2023 Finalist title, has been the attainment of an Ofsted OUTSTANDING grading for Ashbourne. Achieving this grading in the realm of childcare indicates a high level of excellence and commitment to quality childcare and education. As Jordan mentions, “As cheesy as it sounds, I am so proud of everything that I have done so far… achieving an Ofsted OUTSTANDING grading… is so fantastic.”
Additionally, his consecutive nominations for the NMT awards, culminating in the NMT Awards 2023 Finalist recognition, highlight the industry’s acknowledgment of his invaluable contributions. Jordan candidly shares, “I was nominated and shortlisted last year in 2022 and I couldn’t believe it, so to be recognised as an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist again is just beyond words.”
These nominations aren’t merely personal accolades but resonate as a beacon of inspiration for others in the sector, especially for the minority of men in childcare.
Jordan’s engagement with the wider childcare community through podcasts and industry events, which adds weight to his NMT Awards 2023 Finalist recognition, demonstrates his proactive approach to disseminating best practices and insights. This has not only enriched him personally but has also delivered unparalleled value to peers throughout the sector. As he reflects, “I think that my contributions on podcasts and when speaking at events, whilst it’s been a fantastic opportunity for me, it’s also valuable for others in the sector to be hearing about each other’s successes, lessons learnt, what’s gone well and what we can implement at our own settings. I hope that this has positively impacted anyone in the sector that has tuned in.”
The abundant positive feedback he’s garnered on platforms like LinkedIn affirms the profound impact he’s cultivated. His active participation on these platforms also underscores the necessity for collaborative learning and mutual experiences for the elevation of the sector. Jordan, echoing the spirit of an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, stresses the urgency for sector-wide dialogues, declaring, “It’s so crucial to share best practice and to unify everyone within the sector to assure the most exceptional possible outcomes for all children.”
To conclude, Jordan’s illustrious achievements, unwavering dedication, and his passion for disseminating knowledge embody the attributes of an authentic leader in the childcare domain. From securing esteemed honours to consistently participating in knowledge-sharing platforms, his trajectory is a tale of inspiration and substantial influence, imprinting an everlasting legacy on the industry.
Jordan’s journey in the childcare and education sector, highlighted by his recognition as an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, is an embodiment of continuous growth and adapting to challenges. As a firm believer in the never-ending journey of improvement, he notes, “I am a firm believer that we are all on a journey, by that I mean we will never be at a point within our settings or within the sector where we can say that we have done it all, all targets achieved and that there is nothing left for us to do or to improve.” His approach towards operational excellence is rooted in the understanding that complacency can be detrimental to success. Thus, even as an NMT Awards 2023 Finalist, there’s always room for improvement, and the vision should remain agile.
When it comes to adapting to industry trends and innovations, Jordan’s approach is balanced. He believes in the importance of adaptability but also in the necessity of evaluating each trend on its merit: “With regards to new trends that hit the sector, I very much believe that if it works and you think it can be implemented well and will benefit the children that attend your setting, then great! But I don’t believe that we should all be completely changing what we do purely based on what we have seen of social media or things like that.” This cautious optimism towards innovation reflects a forward-looking mindset that is critical in ensuring that changes are beneficial and not just driven by the novelty.
In envisioning the future of nursery operations, Jordan is hopeful that the sector will see more inclusivity and diversity. Technological advancements, he believes, will aid in creating better working environments, supporting staff, strengthening parent partnerships, and improving accessibility. With the rapid evolution of technology and changing industry standards, he anticipates the next decade to be transformative for the childcare sector, stating, “I think we have come a long way over the past 5-10 years, and I do truly believe that the next 5-10 are really going to be a watch this space moment.”
As for those considering a career in operations within the childcare and education sector, Jordan’s message, backed by his accolades such as the NMT Awards 2023 Finalist nomination, is clear and passionate: “Do it, do it now.” He emphasises that while frameworks and legislations can be taught, genuine passion and care are intrinsic qualities that the sector direly needs. Jordan’s perspective is a testament to his commitment to raising the bar in the childcare industry and ensuring that it continues to evolve, adapt, and thrive in the face of challenges and opportunities alike.
Jordan, boasting a distinct background and undeniable leadership skills, projects a vision for the future of the childcare industry. His emphasis lies in the promise of increased inclusivity and the transformative potential of accolades like the NMT Award.
With a fervent spirit, Jordan visualises the impending evolutions within the childcare and education landscape. “I am really excited about the future months and even the next year for the sector, we have some many exciting things coming up in near future,” he mentions, spotlighting events such as the Nursery World Awards 2023 and the pivotal NMT Awards 2023.
These ceremonies not only salute individual feats but applaud the industry’s collective stride. They are platforms to “Celebrate all of the sectors achievements. Event like these are a great chance to hear about what’s going well but also what lessons have been learnt. We can hear about great products and systems have been created in the last 12 months. This is a very exciting time.”
His optimism for the childcare sector’s impending phase is evident. “We have seen lots of changes over the recent years, I am hoping that as a sector we will see even more inclusivity and diversity,” he observes. Diversity and inclusion are central to Jordan’s envisaged future. He champions an industry more receptive to individuals with diverse experiences, thereby enriching childcare quality. “Continued inclusivity, welcoming varied experiences, will undeniably enhance the care delivered to our young ones,” he asserts.
Technological strides and evolving benchmarks also feature prominently in Jordan’s outlook. He’s optimistic about forthcoming enhancements that bolster staff morale, solidify parent collaborations, and streamline parents’ childcare search.
The NMT Award nomination, particularly as the sole male in his category, offers Jordan a prominent platform from which he can advocate for greater male participation in the sector. Winning would amplify this platform.
Jordan aspires to harness the potential of the NMT Award, if he wins, to inspire other men to see the immense possibilities within the childcare and early years sector. “My aim always is to inspire others to see the potential that this sector has to offer. I want everyone to see how amazing a career in childcare and or the early years sector could be,” he expresses.
In conclusion, Jordan’s vision for the future is clear, ambitious, and fuelled by a passion for the children and teams he serves. With his dedication and forward-thinking approach, the childcare and education industry’s future indeed seems bright.
Throughout his career, Jordan consistently underscored the importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive community. These individuals played pivotal roles in not only shaping his journey but also in ensuring the seamless execution of daily operations.
Jordan has often expressed profound gratitude for the support he has received. He recalls, “I have always been so lucky within my career with regards to the support that I have received throughout my different roles.” His ascent from an Early Years Educator to the esteemed position of Head of Operations wasn’t an individual effort. Every step of his journey was marked by the presence and guidance of dedicated mentors and colleagues. He asserts the role of these people, saying, “I think that it’s very important to be supported by your line leader and mentors.”
However, for Jordan, the teams he led and was a part of held a special place. He fondly remembers, “When I was a practitioner, I was so fortunate to learn from such inspirational individuals that I was learning from and working alongside.” As he moved up the ladder, the dynamics changed but the essence remained the same. He says, “As I progressed into leadership and management roles, I was fortunate enough to manage and lead teams that I was in awe of, teams that I was inspired by, teams that made me proud to lead and manage.“
Jordan’s philosophy of leadership revolves around inclusiveness, empowerment, and collective growth. In his current role as Head of Operations, he emphasises the importance of teamwork and the sense of community. “We are very much a team, a community, a village as such.“
This sense of collective identity ensures a culture where ideas flourish, where everyone feels valued, and where innovation is a collective effort. He states, “We empower each other, we celebrate each other’s ideas and suggestions, we trial and error together.“
One of the most commendable attributes of Jordan’s leadership is the way he fosters open dialogue. He explains, “We engage in open discussions and that really enables me to be the leader that I am today.” In Jordan’s team, every idea is worth discussing, every lesson is worth sharing, and every voice is worth hearing.
This sense of inclusiveness is what makes his leadership so effective. “There is no idea that would be shot down without discussion, no lessons learned that wouldn’t be openly discussed and no one would ever lead a deep dive or conversation feeling unheard.“
Such an atmosphere encourages innovation and ensures that new initiatives are welcomed, discussed, and executed without any apprehension. In essence, the pillars of Jordan’s success have been the unwavering support he received and the empowering community he fostered.
The impact Jordan has had goes beyond the confines of boardrooms and office spaces. It trickles down to the very essence of the community, reaching the hearts of families and children. This connection is not merely a byproduct of his role but a testament to his genuine interest and commitment to the community he serves. Elizabeth White’s touching feedback paints a vivid picture of this deep-rooted connection.
Elizabeth recalls, “As a parent, it is lovely to see somebody that is ranked so highly within the company visiting frequently and having such a huge positive impact on the environment and wellbeing of the staff and families.” Jordan’s interactions aren’t limited to high-level meetings. He knows every child, speaks to them, and understands their daily learnings. Elizabeth shares, “Jordan knows all of our children by name and takes time to speak with the children about what they are learning that day.“
His influence is not just recognised by the adults but also the children. Elizabeth’s son views him as “really kind and funny.” It’s not every day that children form such a positive image of a high-ranking official. It speaks volumes about Jordan’s approachability and genuine interest in the lives of the young ones.
The trust and confidence Jordan instills in parents are palpable. Elizabeth mentions, “Jordan gives me confidence in knowing that my child is happy and safe within a company that truly cares for all children, families and the wider community.“
Concluding her heartfelt testimonial, Elizabeth perfectly encapsulates Jordan’s essence: “To sum up Jordan, he is just an incredible all-round person doing an incredible job!“
Indeed, touching lives and forming such connections isn’t just about the title one holds; it’s about the person one chooses to be. And in Jordan’s case, he chose to be more than just the Head of Operations. He chose to be a part of the community, an inspiration, a confidante, and a figure of trust.
The trajectory of any industry is shaped by its visionaries and trailblazers. For the childcare sector, Jordan stands out as a beacon, highlighting the path forward with aspirations of inclusivity and authenticity.
When asked about the future direction of the childcare industry, Jordan observed, “I think that we have seen lots of changes over the recent years, I am hoping that as a sector we will see even more inclusivity and diversity.” His optimism for the industry’s trajectory is evident, especially with his remark, “I have a good feeling about the next few years for the childcare sector. With the announcement of additional funding for younger children, we have lots to look forward to.“
For Jordan, inclusivity is not just about adhering to modern standards but about enriching the experiences for children. “I would like to see the sector continue to open its door to more and more people, who has all different experiences that they can bring and provide to the children that they care for,” he emphasised.
His belief rests in authenticity, a value he perceives as the driving force in attracting passionate individuals. He believes that, “As long as we keep being authentic to who we are and what we want for the children within our care, we can attract any potential candidate that wants to work in a career that really makes a difference.“
Jordan’s insights on the future of nursery operations showcase an astute awareness of the balance between technological advancements and the timeless essence of childcare. He says, “I am really hoping that all of the steps we have been making as a sector but also as a generation, will lead to even better working environments.” His vision encapsulates ease for both staff and parents, building bridges between them through advancements. “I think we have come a long way over the past 5-10 years and I do truly believe that the next 5-10 are really going to be a watch this space moment,” he reflects, emphasising that exciting changes are on the horizon.
Lastly, for anyone contemplating a venture into childcare operations, Jordan’s advice is candid and motivating: “Do it, do it now.” He acknowledges the high standards but also emphasises the unquantifiable essence of passion. He advises, “One thing I would say is that it’s important anyone coming into the sector understands that the standards are high, and they are only going to get higher.” His concluding words resonate with an earnestness that’s compelling, “You can be taught a framework, you can be taught legislation or guidance, but something that cannot be taught is a genuine passion and care. So if you have that, then just do it. We want you.“
Jordan’s vision for an inclusive industry not only maps out the future but also accentuates the importance of passion, authenticity, and the unwavering commitment to making a difference in young lives.
The path of Jordan’s career is not just a succession of titles and roles but a tapestry of dedication, passion, and relentless commitment to enhancing the realm of childcare. From his earliest days as an Early Years Educator, soaking in knowledge from inspirational figures, to his current leadership position as Head of Operations, Jordan’s journey serves as a testament to what one can achieve when driven by genuine care and ambition.
His notable achievements not only lie in the tangible impacts he’s made within his roles but also in the countless lives he’s touched – be it children who remember him fondly, families who trust him implicitly, or teams that are invigorated by his leadership. Jordan is more than just a professional in the industry; he embodies the very spirit of what it means to serve and uplift a community.
For those who stand at the precipice, considering a foray into the childcare sector, let Jordan’s story serve as a beacon. His passion resounds clear, urging you to take that step, echoing the sentiment: “Do it. Do it now.” It’s not just a call to join an industry but an invitation to be a part of a legacy, to make an indelible mark, to truly make a difference.
As we reflect upon Jordan’s admirable journey, it’s only fitting to wish him the very best for the NMT Awards. His contributions are invaluable, and his spirit unwavering. Here’s to many more accolades and achievements in his illustrious career!
Nutritional Therapist and Early Years NutritionConsultant
At the intersection of health, nutrition, and early years education stands Louise Mercieca, a dynamic force in the realm of nutritional well-being for young children. A prolific writer with numerous articles and the notable book ‘How Food Shapes Your Child’ under her belt, she has delved deep into the intricacies of how food impacts a child’s development.
Her passion was kindled by two key elements: the journey she undertook with her young son and the extensive research she carried out for her debut book. Not just an author, Louise further extends her reach through the airwaves with her radio show ‘Food For Thought’ on Teacher Hug Radio.
Louise’s commitment doesn’t stop at raising awareness. As an Early Years Nutrition Consultant, she actively collaborates on menu development and nutritional education, ensuring that children receive a balanced and informed start to their dietary journey. Her driving belief is unequivocal: by understanding the bond between food and biology early on, we can preemptively address and potentially prevent many health and dietary issues adults grapple with later in life.
Her dedication to this cause positions her as a beacon for professionals in the Early Years sector, guiding them to understand the pivotal role food plays in holistic child health.
Chef Trainer at LEYF
In the vibrant world of child nutrition and culinary training, Sean Cowden shines as a beacon of expertise and dedication. As of 2022, he took the reins as Chef Trainer for LEYF’s esteemed Early Years Chef Academy courses. Initiated by LEYF in 2019, the Early Years Chef Academy emerged from a pressing need: to guarantee that young learners receive the essential, nutritious food vital for their growth and cognitive development. Through this initiative, chefs are meticulously trained not only in the culinary arts but also in the nuances of child nutrition, sculpting them into experts that inspire children, staff, and parents alike to cultivate lifelong healthy eating habits.
Before his esteemed tenure at LEYF Nurseries, Sean donned the hat of a Head Chef at an independent school, bringing his culinary flair to the academic arena. Additionally, his role as a Training Specialist for Gail’s Bakery further showcases his diverse expertise and unwavering commitment to the world of culinary arts and education.