(Photograph) - Heather Gilchrist’s Happitots chain of day nurseries is now claiming to be the largest independent nursery care provider with the acquisition of three more locations in the central belt.
The group’s purchase of three Beehive nurseries in Cumbernauld, Bridge of Allan and Falkirk brings its total acquisitions to 13 in eight years. It provides childcare for more than 1,000 children and has a turnover in excess of pound;3 million.
As the nursery nurse dispute shows no signs of an early resolution, Mrs Gilchrist commented pointedly that motivating and supporting staff was a key ingredient. “All our staff are trained, or are training to become nursery nurses, with time off during the day to study,” she said. “They are able to move between the different nurseries, ensuring they are sharing their skills and maintaining best practice .”. Photograph by ASHLEY COOMBES ATOM
