Meet The Manager: Tracy from Fennies Ealing, Junction Road

We caught up with Tracy, our brilliant Nursery Manager at Fennies Ealing, Junction Road. With a wealth of experience in Early Years education, Tracy brings warmth, creativity and a deep understanding of children’s emotional development to everything she does.

In this blog, Tracy shares what makes our Junction Road nursery a truly special place. From the close-knit parent partnerships to the team’s inspiring activities and commitment to supporting every child’s unique journey, Tracy reflects on the moments that matter most, giving children the very best start.

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

Join Us At Fennies Ealing, Junction Road

With Tracy’s thoughtful leadership and a passionate team alongside her, Fennies Ealing, Junction Road offers so much more than just exceptional childcare. Whether you’re a parent searching for a nurturing space where your child is supported emotionally and academically, or an Early Years professional looking to grow in a collaborative environment that values individual strengths, Ealing is a place where everyone is truly welcomed.

What’s a fun fact about you?

Before joining Fennies, I adopted rescue cats and dogs with my partner. Giving animals a second chance at a happy life means a lot to me. It’s about creating opportunities, which is something I also bring into my role in Early Years. Every child deserves to feel seen, safe and supported, and I want to help provide that for them every day.

What helps you stay connected with your communities?

We love giving back to the local community. Recently, we ran a food bank collection, which brought everyone together for a good cause. I think it’s really important that children learn from an early age what it means to help others. That sense of compassion and connection stays with them long after they grow up.

What’s something you have loved about your Early Years career so far?

One of my proudest moments was contributing to a published book about how we introduced 'Worry Monsters' in our setting. They help children manage big emotions by writing down their worries and giving them to the monster. Watching it make a real difference in children’s emotional wellbeing has been incredibly rewarding.

What’s your ambition to help improve the Early Years sector?

My biggest ambition is to ensure children leave our nursery with a strong emotional foundation. I want them to feel confident expressing themselves and to know that it’s okay to have big feelings. Helping them become emotionally resilient and self-aware gives them the best possible start.

How do you create Parent Partnerships at Fennies Ealing?

Strong relationships with our parents are at the heart of what we do. I make a point of greeting them personally each day and building real connections so that they feel part of our nursery community. We host regular events where families are invited into the setting, and our monthly communications make sure everyone is kept informed and involved. When a parent joins Fennies, I want them to feel like they’re not just dropping their child off, they’re joining a wider family that values and includes them every step of the way.

What’s one impact you like to make on the team atmosphere?

As I always say. Yes, I’m your manager, but I’m also a person who cares a lot about you. I take the time to understand what’s going on in my team’s lives beyond the nursery walls. If someone needs to talk, I want them to know I’m here and ready to listen. I believe that when the team feels heard and supported, they show up as their best selves. That trust and care strengthen our team and help us maintain the warm, welcoming atmosphere we’re known for.

What’s one way you help to upskill your team?

Upskilling is about giving people the confidence to lead and the tools to succeed. I recently held a room leader meeting where we discussed how to take ownership of their rooms. I don't personally like micromanaging. I believe in developing independent thinkers who feel capable and trusted. That way, they can respond to situations with confidence and pass that confidence on to the children in their care.

Why did you choose to work in Early Years education?

It’s something I’ve always been drawn to. I used to help out with children’s parties and was constantly told I had a natural way with little ones. From there, it was a clear path into nursery work, and I’ve never looked back. Working with younger children allows you to witness so many firsts. First words, first friendships, first discoveries. It’s such a privilege to be part of those moments, and to know that you’re helping shape the way a child sees the world.

What passions do you have within the Early Years curriculum?

I’m passionate about helping children understand and regulate their emotions. Emotional literacy isn’t just a part of our curriculum, it’s woven into every interaction we have. I encourage my team to validate feelings, use empathetic language and model calm responses. When a child learns that it’s okay to be angry, or sad, or overwhelmed, and that there are safe ways to express those emotions, they’re developing skills that will stay with them long after they leave nursery. It’s a long-term investment in who they become.

What kind of leader are you?

I’m a listener. I genuinely care about what my team has to say, and I make a conscious effort to hear them and understand their perspective, taking their feedback on board. I’m a passionate person and I want the best for everyone here, the children, their families and the team that makes it all happen. I don’t believe in leading from a distance; I’m very present, approachable and people-focused. Leadership, to me, is about building trust and making sure every voice is valued. When people feel respected and supported, they thrive, and that’s when the whole nursery flourishes.

What would you like to achieve in the next six months?

I want us to continue growing as a united, confident team. That means focusing on consistency, communication and professional development so that every team member knows what’s expected and feels supported in achieving it. I’d also like to develop more opportunities for families to engage with us, so that the bond between nursery and home is even stronger. A cohesive team and engaged families create the best possible environment for children to thrive.

What’s your favourite thing about coming to work?

The creativity of the team is something I absolutely love. They’re always trying new things. I'll walk into a room and be greeted by a new sensory tray setup, a themed small world, or an imaginative role play area. It shows their dedication to creating magical moments for the children. It also makes the work exciting and inspiring. You never know what you’re going to walk into, and that kind of innovation keeps the nursery environment fresh and engaging every day.

Do you have any exciting visits or upcoming partnerships within the community planned?

We’re always looking for fun ways to connect with the community and show appreciation to our team. Recently, we invited an ice cream van to the nursery as a surprise treat for the team. It was such a joyful moment and a lovely way to say thank you. We also host regular stay-and-play sessions, including art-themed ones where families can explore alongside their children. These events are great for building community spirit and giving children meaningful opportunities to learn and express themselves.

What events have you got in the near future at Fennies Ealing?

We’ve got an exciting calendar ahead, including themed stay-and-play sessions, cultural celebrations and family engagement activities. These events give families a chance to be part of their child’s learning, see how the curriculum comes to life and build connections with the wider nursery community. We’re also planning team initiatives focused on professional development and wellbeing, to keep morale high and motivation strong as we move into the next term.

What’s the best thing about Fennies Ealing?

Without a doubt, it’s the team. They’re dedicated, passionate and incredibly supportive of one another. You can feel the warmth when you walk in, it’s not something you can fake. Our families see it too, and many of them say it’s the reason they stay with us. When practitioners feel supported and respected, it reflects in the care they give. It’s the people that make the nursery what it is and we’re lucky to have such a strong, united team here at Ealing.