‘Watching children develop is magical’

ANGELA KIRKHAM surrounded by some of the children who attend the nursery. Back row, from the left: Katie O’Brien, Bobbie Carey, Mia Ratcliffe, Hannah Penny, Kye Farrugia. Front: Erin Healer, Annabel Swindells and Jack Canny

A WOMAN who has shaped the early years of generations of Oldhamers over three decades has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

When Angela Kirkham could not find a nursery for her son, Glyn, she decided
to set up one herself, and within months the Victoria Brook day nursery was born.

Thirty-one years later, the Chadderton nursery is still going strong and Angela is now looking after the children of her earliest charges.

Magical

“I’m absolutely over the moon to be nominated for a
Pride in Oldham award,” said Angela.

“It was very kind, but it’s a group effort — it’s not just me.”

“I have a team of very capable staff and could not do this without them.”

“I absolutely love my job and dedicate all my time to it.”

“Watching the children develop and achieve things is just magical.”

The thriving day nursery, which was recently rated outstanding in all areas by education watchdog Ofsted, is also a fund-raising hub.

The Chadderton Walk for Life is an annual walk around the Chadderton heights and was set up by the nursery.

It raised £10,000 last year alone, and the nursery’s regular fund-raising for Children In Need has led to a number of television appearances.

Angela, of Cathedral Road, Chadderton, said: “Our work carries a lot of responsibility, because people are trusting you with the most precious thing in their life and that can be daunting. But the the key to our success is simply making sure that children learn and have fun at the same time.”

Angela was nominated by parents Lisa Farrugia and Lynn Ogden, who said: “Angela’s dedication to her nursery, staff and children is second to none.”

To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, tell us:

The name of the person or group nominated

A contact number for them, if known

Their job title and place of work, if relevant

Your reason for the nomination

Your name

Your contact number

Send your info by email to editorial@oldham-chronicle.co.uk, marked “Pride in Oldham Awards, 2008


Pride in Oldham is supported by:

Innovative Technology

J W Lees Brewery

Molnlycke Health Care

Northern Counties Housing Association

Oldham Council

University Centre Oldham

Warburtons