Meet The Manager: Kay From Fennies Richmond, Sandycombe Road

We had the pleasure of catching up with Kay, our fantastic Nursery Manager at Fennies Richmond, Sandycombe Road, opening its doors in July 2025! With a wealth of experience in the Early Years sector, Kay is passionate about creating a nurturing and inspiring environment where children feel confident, curious and ready to learn.

In this blog, Kay shares what makes our brand-new Richmond nursery so special and her aspirations for the future. From forming strong bonds with local families to becoming a trusted part of the community, Kay opens up about what motivates her and what she's most excited about as we prepare to welcome our very first families.

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

Join Us At Fennies Richmond, Sandycombe Road

Led by a passionate and approachable Nursery Manager in Kay and supported by a warm, close-knit team, Fennies Richmond will be more than just a nursery, it will be a place where strong relationships, creativity and community are at the heart of everything we do. Whether you’re a parent seeking a nurturing, home-from-home environment for your child or an Early Years professional looking to grow in a supportive and inspiring setting, Richmond is ready to welcome you. Join us for our official launch party on the 9th of August, where you can meet the team, explore the nursery and see first-hand what makes Fennies so special. With exciting activities for children and a chance for parents to connect, it’s the perfect way to kick off our Richmond journey.

What’s A Fun Fact About You?

I’ve worked in Early Years for so long now that I’ve started looking at everyday objects and thinking, ‘Ooh, we could use that in a sensory tray.’ Whether I’m in a supermarket or unboxing a parcel, I’m always mentally filing things under ‘potential loose parts.’ My recycling bin doesn’t stand a chance because I’m forever rescuing things like bottle tops, cardboard tubes and bubble wrap. Even my friends and family have started saving bits for me, knowing there’s a good chance it’ll end up in a tuff tray covered in shaving foam. There’s something really fun and rewarding about turning the ordinary into something magical for children to explore.

What Helps You Stay Connected With Your Communities?

Being visible and approachable is at the heart of everything I do. I always make time for parents, whether that’s a quick catch-up at the door or sitting down over a cup of tea to chat about their child’s development. At Richmond, we truly value open communication, and our open-door policy encourages honest conversations and real partnerships. I also love looking beyond the nursery walls to form links within the wider community. We’re planning to build connections with local charities and care homes so children can learn from the world around them, understand different walks of life and grow into compassionate, confident individuals.

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

Watching children grow into their personalities and seeing them reach milestones is always magical, but what’s really special is when families come back with their second or third child because they’ve had such a great experience. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we’ve created a safe, loving environment they trust. You really do become part of each family’s journey, and the relationships you build last well beyond their time at nursery.

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

I want to help ensure that all children, no matter their background, have access to high-quality learning experiences. Early Years is such a crucial stage, and I’m passionate about offering opportunities that spark curiosity and build confidence, and that can be through sensory play, exploring new environments or creative expression. I believe in removing barriers and creating inclusive, exciting spaces where every child can thrive.

How Do You Create Parent Partnerships At Fennies Richmond?

For me, it’s about consistency, kindness and presence. I always make sure I’m available at drop-off and pick-up times to check in with parents, celebrate the little wins, or just be a friendly face to talk to. We regularly hold stay-and-play sessions, open evenings, and family events to bring everyone together and share what the children have been learning.

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

I want every member of my team to feel supported, empowered and excited to come to work. That starts with creating a culture of trust and positivity, where wellbeing is prioritised and achievements are celebrated. I’m a firm believer in collaborative leadership, so I’ll always roll up my sleeves and get involved, whether that’s helping in the room or just being there to listen. We work best when we lift each other up.

What Kind Of Leader Are You?

I’m very hands-on and lead by example. I don’t believe in sitting behind a desk all day, I want to be where the action is, supporting the team and getting to know the children. I’ll always be the first to jump in if something needs doing and the last to leave if someone needs help. I think being approachable and present is what makes a leader truly effective.

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

I make a conscious effort to understand each team member’s strengths and areas of interest so we can build on them. Whether it's through regular one-to-ones, coaching during walk rounds or encouraging professional development opportunities, I want everyone to feel like they’re progressing. If someone is passionate about sustainability, for example, we’ll find ways to weave that into the curriculum. It’s about developing people as individuals, not just educators.

Why Did You Choose To Work In Early Years Education?

Early Years is the most powerful stage of development. Children absorb so much in these first five years, and knowing I can help shape that journey in a positive way is what drives me. I’ve always been passionate about creating environments where children feel loved and seen. There’s something incredibly special about being part of their first steps, both literally and figuratively.

What Passions Do You Have Within The Early Years Curriculum?

I’m especially passionate about the creative side of the curriculum, whether that’s expressive arts, role play or storytelling. These experiences are not just fun; they open doors to language, problem-solving and emotional development. I also love finding ways to bring learning to life through sensory exploration and real-world experiences, making each moment meaningful and memorable for the children.

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

My focus is on building a strong, connected team and embedding a positive culture right from the start. I want the children to feel safe and excited every morning, the parents to feel confident and supported and the team to feel proud to be part of Fennies Richmond. That strong foundation will help us grow into a nursery that truly reflects the values we believe in.

What’s Your Favourite Thing About Coming To Work?

It’s those little, unexpected moments of joy! The giggles, the cuddles, the “look what I made!” moments that remind you why you do what you do. There’s nothing better than walking into a room and being greeted with smiles and stories from the children. It’s a privilege to be part of their world every day.

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

Absolutely! We’re working on partnerships that will give children exciting experiences beyond the nursery, like visiting the local fire station, having a police officer come in to talk about their role, or even bringing animals into the setting for hands-on learning. These experiences help children build confidence, ask questions and develop a real connection to the world around them.

What Events Have You Got In The Near Future At Fennies Richmond?

Our biggest upcoming event is the official launch party on the 9th of August, and we’re all so excited about it! It will be a fantastic opportunity for local families to meet the team, explore our beautiful nursery and experience what makes Fennies special. We’ll have a range of fun, interactive activities for children, along with opportunities for parents to ask questions and connect with one another. It’s about beginning to build those strong relationships and celebrating the start of something special in Richmond.

What’s The Best Thing About Fennies Richmond?

It’s the sense of warmth and belonging you feel the moment you walk through the door. We’ve created a beautiful space filled with high-quality resources and thoughtful touches, but it’s the people that make it truly special. From the team to the children and families, Richmond will be a place where everyone feels part of something bigger, a real community nursery.