A blog post from Michelle Hill, committee member and parent

I’m Michelle, mum to Isla (year 5) and Sadie who is now in year 7.  I’ve been priveleged to be involved with EGKC since 2012, becoming a voluntary director in 2013.

Like all parents I want the best possible childcare for my children, where they are not only physically well cared for but nurtured and encouraged.  It helps appease my working  mum guilt!  

Lisa and the team offer a warm and welcoming environment. Whether it’s a crazy game, help getting arty or a cuddle and a chat that’s needed, our children are recognised as individuals and given the support they need.  

The club is run on a not for profit basis and is registered as a charity.  Lisa manages the day to day operations and is supported by a voluntary board of parent directors.

A club run by parents provides a unique opportunity to influence the way in which our children are cared for.  As well as ensuring regulatory requirements are met, the directors are responsible for financial governance and operational decisions such as setting fees and opening hours. We aim to offer a value for money service that meets our needs as parents and also provides the quality of care that we want for our children. 

As a not for profit organisation we are able to invest in quality in a way that regular business ventures are not.  For example, we rota additional staff beyond the required ratios so that they can play and interact with our children rather than just supervise them.  We invest in our team, offering good working conditions, training and career development.  Staff turnover is really low, providing our children with a consistent and stable environment which helps them feel happy and settled.  

The directors meet termly and at our annual AGM.  We’re a friendly bunch and would love other parents to get involved.  If this is of interest to you, please let Lisa know!