Lauren Harding

My name is Lauren, I am the Manager at More2Riverside. I have been working in early years for 14 years.

I did work experience then a placement at a nursery when I was 15 then began working as a bank staff member at a nursery when I was 16; within 6 years I had progressed in my career and was promoted to Deputy Manager.

I started at More2 when More2Riverside first opened in March 2019; I again started as a Practitioner and worked my way to a Room Leader to Deputy Manager to now the Nursery Manager. I have an excellent knowledge of child development but never stop learning - I attend early years conferences, face to face and online training whenever I can. I completed my level 3 early years qualification when I was 18 and I am also Designated Safeguarding Lead for the nursery and update my knowledge on safeguarding practices regularly, SENCo (special educational needs coordinator) and first aid qualified.

I have a very close-knit family, I am the oldest child with 3 younger siblings that I helped with when they were younger due to the age difference, plus cousins who I helped care for. This experience gave me the love and passion for looking after children which set me on my path to where I am today. I wouldn't want any other career - watching children learn and grow is extremely fulfilling, just knowing that you have helped a child along in their most precious and formative years is just amazing.

I have my own child now also, Archie. He is 3 years old, watching your children grow is such an amazing experience. In my spare time I spend most of it keeping him entertained on small trips to the park, days out to the zoo, and I like to travel and get him to experience as much from the world as possible. I also like meeting up with my friends and going to fun places making memories and having the best time.