Meet The Manager: Lacey From Fennies Whitton, Percy Road

We caught up with Lacey, our passionate Nursery Manager at Fennies Whitton, Percy Road. With a calm and thoughtful approach, Lacey enjoys creating a learning environment that feels warm, purposeful, and supportive. She believes that when children feel safe and inspired, their natural curiosity and confidence flourish. Her focus on meaningful connections allows each child to thrive in a space where their individuality is celebrated, and their achievements are noticed and encouraged.

In this blog, Lacey shares what makes our Whitton nursery unique. From building strong relationships with families to cultivating a positive team atmosphere and delivering enriching experiences for children, she reflects on the moments that matter most and how they shape every child’s Early Years journey.

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

Join Us At Fennies Whitton, Percy Road

If you are searching for a nursery where your child feels happy, supported and curious each day, we would love to welcome you to our nursery in Whitton. Our brilliant team and our bright, engaging spaces create an environment that feels warm and purposeful for children. Families appreciate a setting that prioritises genuine care and thoughtful learning. Early Years professionals value the collaborative culture and focus on strong practice. Whitton is a setting where people feel encouraged, included and confident.

What’s A Fun Fact About You?

I’m a keen scuba diver and have had the chance to explore the underwater world in Spain, Turkey and Cyprus. I love the adventure, but also the calm that diving brings. I think that same sense of curiosity and composure carries over into my work with children, and I hope to inspire them to be confident explorers in their own way.

What Helps You Stay Connected With Your Communities?

For me, staying connected starts with positivity and engagement. I make sure my team understands how to bring positive interactions into daily nursery life, supporting children’s learning while strengthening relationships with families and our local community. I love seeing children feel part of something bigger, whether it’s through shared projects, outings or simple acts of kindness. These connections help everyone feel included and valued.

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

One of my proudest achievements was becoming a qualified Forest School Leader. I’ve loved being able to embed outdoor learning into the curriculum, giving children opportunities to explore nature, take safe risks and develop confidence. Watching their curiosity come alive as they climb trees, investigate ponds or discover insects is incredibly rewarding. Those moments, where learning is hands-on and fun, remind me why I love what I do every day.

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

My ambition is to create opportunities for every child to develop a love for learning that lasts long after they leave nursery. I want children to feel confident, curious and inspired. By supporting my team to implement creative approaches, I hope to contribute to a sector that values meaningful engagement, exploration and curiosity as much as academic learning.

How Do Create Parent Partnerships At Fennies Whitton, Percy Road?

For me, parent partnerships begin from the very first visit. I believe that welcoming families with warmth and professionalism is key to helping children feel secure and valued. Parents can get to know the team during nursery tours and then build a closer connection with their child’s key person during settling-in.

I ensure families feel a true sense of belonging, with lots of opportunities to take part in special events, from Christmas Carols and Easter Egg Hunts to Eid celebrations and Father’s and Mother’s Day activities. We even open the nursery on weekends for themed open days and Forest School trips to Crane Park. Whether we’re splashing in the lake on a summer’s day or exploring the woodlands in winter before sharing hot chocolate and stories, I love seeing these experiences strengthen bonds between children, families and our team.

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

I focus on creating a positive, supportive atmosphere where my team feels valued and motivated. I aim to celebrate achievements and recognise the difference each individual makes every day. When my team is happy and confident, the children experience richer, more engaging learning. Positivity is infectious, and I love seeing it ripple through the nursery.

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

I role model positive interactions and provide practical training to help my team connect meaningfully with children. I use video observations, peer reviews and one-to-one coaching to support reflection and growth. From SEND training to language-led sessions and group time strategies, I make sure learning is ongoing and relevant. Seeing my team develop confidence and skill is incredibly rewarding, and I’m committed to supporting each practitioner throughout their career.

Why Did You Choose To Work In Early Years Education?

I started in Early Years when I was sixteen, helping out with my niece. I quickly discovered the impact positive interactions can have on a child’s development, and I was hooked. Over the last twelve years, I’ve honed my skills and helped colleagues grow, creating learning environments where children can thrive. I love being a role model and helping children grow into confident, curious and resilient individuals.

What Passions Do You Have Within The Early Years Curriculum?

I’m a qualified Forest School teacher and passionate about outdoor play. I believe that time spent in nature supports mental and physical wellbeing, encourages independence and develops problem-solving skills. Forest School gives children the chance to explore, experiment, and connect with the world around them. I integrate these experiences into the nursery curriculum so children can develop confidence, resilience and a genuine love for learning.

What Kind Of Leader Are You?

I lead with positivity, motivation and fairness. I encourage collaboration, celebrate achievements and set high expectations for myself and my team. I believe that happy, supported teams create happy, engaged children. I like to bring joy and fun into the nursery, ensuring that learning and play are memorable and enjoyable for everyone.

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

In the first six months, I want to create a nurturing, safe and welcoming environment for children while embedding strong safeguarding, health, and operational procedures. I want to build strong relationships with families and develop a confident, motivated team empowered to deliver outstanding learning experiences. I also want to embed a positive team culture where high-quality interactions with children can flourish, ensuring that Whitton is a happy and thriving nursery for everyone.

What’s Your Favourite Thing About Coming To Work?

For me, it’s the small, joyful moments: the laughter of children, their curiosity as they explore and seeing them proud of their achievements. I love sharing those moments with my team. Nursery feels like a village, and I love being part of it, helping children and the team grow and thrive together.

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

I’m planning lots of exciting community connections, including partnerships with the local church for seasonal visits and working with a nearby care home for song, story and gardening sessions. We’ll also enjoy trips to parks, shops, and local fire and police stations. These activities give children new learning experiences, encourage community involvement and create meaningful moments for families and team members alike.

What’s Going To Be The Best Thing About Fennies Whitton, Percy Road?

For me, the best thing is the team. When we come together, we create a nurturing and positive environment where children feel safe and valued, families feel welcomed, and staff feel inspired. The combination of dedicated people and thoughtfully designed spaces ensures that Fennies Whitton is a place where everyone can grow, learn and feel part of a true community.