60 seconds with… Libby Maurice

Libby Maurice, Early Years Practitioner, talks to us about the Salvation Army, Movers and Shakers, and a friendly, supportive environment.

Tell us about yourself.
I am an Early Years Practitioner and joined 1st Place in April 2006, starting out in the Crèche. Previously, I worked as a Nanny for five years. I also worked for the Salvation Army for eight years, running a Parent and Toddler Group in Camberwell.

How does your previous experience benefit 1st Place?
All my previous jobs have been customer and client based, which gave me lots of experience dealing with different people. Working for the Salvation Army made me aware of signposting families to different services and agencies for support. This has certainly helped me in the Crèche at 1st Place where I work as part of the Family Support Team.

What do you like most about your job?
I love the variety of my job. I do different sessions during term time and also get involved with the Play Scheme and holiday activities.  

What makes working at 1st Place so rewarding and enjoyable?
I love seeing the progression in the children and families. Coming to crèche is often the first time that the children have been separated from their parent so seeing the change from upset children to happy, engaged children is wonderful. 1st Place is also the most friendly and supportive place I have ever worked.         

What has been your biggest achievement at 1st Place?
Developing different popular sessions including Baby Time, Movers and Shakers, and Singing Sessions. Helping 1st Place Children and Parents’ Centre to achieve the Communication Friendly Award. Now, we are going for the higher award.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I enjoy swimming, reading, going to the theatre and art galleries.

Tell me something surprising about yourself.
I can swim a mile!