Nursery staff took part in a training day to improve their childcare skills.
Portland Nurseries brought over 80 employees from their four sites together for the annual event.
The family-owned group runs Harlequin, Holly Bank and Oakwood House day nurseries in Edgerton and Portland House in Lindley.
Each training day takes on a different focus centred around the development needs of children.
Over the years staff have concentrated on a variety of areas such as communication, outdoor play and planning.
At the latest event the day began with a personality identification exercise to help with teamwork. This was followed by a range of presentations and interactive workshops.
These focused on areas including safeguarding, behaviour management, progress report training and how to improve the transition process to nursery, between rooms and into school.
The day ended with a visit from Sarah Gordon from the Early Excellence Centre.
Sarah brought some fresh and fun ideas for story and song time.
Portland Nurseries places a strong emphasis on continual training and development. The group has held the Investors in People award for 13 years and ensures that staff are trained above and beyond the legal and Ofsted recommendations.
The nurseries close twice a year to come together as a company to improve and develop their skills.
General manager Anastasia Murphy said: “The training days help us to continually expand on and improve all aspects of our childcare skills.
“The staff team had a highly interactive and informative day and have been putting everything they learnt into practice.
“Portland Nurseries always set the highest standards to create an environment where children can reach their individual potential.
“They are encouraged to grow, develop and safely experience the world around with the guidance of our highly qualified and dedicated team.”
