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Two early years employers working in partnership with the Growth Company have been shortlisted for the Childcare and Social Care Excellence Award at this year's Pride of Tameside Business Awards. 

Sunflower Children's Centre and Sky High Achievers have been recognised for their dedication to delivering high-quality childcare services and making a positive difference to the lives of children, families and communities across Tameside. 

The Childcare and Social Care Excellence Award celebrates organisations that demonstrate outstanding care, support and wellbeing outcomes while maintaining high professional standards. The award also recognises a commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, innovation, continuous improvement and staff development. 

As employers of apprentices, both nurseries have shown a commitment to developing the next generation of early years professionals, creating opportunities for staff to gain valuable skills, qualifications and experience while supporting the delivery of exceptional childcare. 

For the Growth Company, the nominations highlight the important role employers play in strengthening the early years workforce and investing in professional development. 

Dawn Gibbons, Operations Director at Sunflower Children's Centre

“We are incredibly proud to be shortlisted for the Childcare and Social Care Excellence Award. This nomination is a wonderful recognition of the hard work, dedication and passion of our whole team, who are committed to giving every child at Sunflower the very best start in life. It also reflects the strong relationships we have built with our families, partners and wider community. To be recognised alongside other Childcare organisations in Tameside is a real honour for The Sunflower Children’s Centre.”                                                                                                                          

Lucy Makin, Associate Director at Sky High Achievers

"We are incredibly proud and honoured to have been shortlisted for the Childcare and Social Care Excellence Award at the Pride of Tameside Business Awards!  To be recognised for something we care so deeply about means the absolute world to our whole Sky High Achievers family. Every single day, our teams pour their hearts into creating amazing experiences for our children, supporting our families and making sure every child feels safe, valued, loved and able to thrive. To have that passion and commitment recognised within our local Tameside community is something we are incredibly proud of." 

The early years sector continues to play a vital role in supporting children during their formative years, while helping families access high-quality childcare and learning opportunities. Through apprenticeships, employers can develop skilled and confident practitioners who are equipped to meet the evolving needs of the sector. 

Jon-Paul Rimington, Managing Director of the Growth Company Education and Skills

"We are delighted to see both Sunflower Children's Centre and Sky High Achievers recognised through these award nominations. Their commitment to high-quality childcare, staff development and continuous improvement reflects the values that are at the heart of the early years sector. We are proud to work alongside employers who invest in their people and create opportunities through apprenticeships." 

Everyone at the Growth Company would like to congratulate both organisations on their nominations and wish them the very best of luck at the Pride of Tameside Business Awards.