The summer term can feel like a whirlwind — sports days, transitions, leavers’ celebrations, funding paperwork, and the final push before the long break. But it’s also one of the most strategically important terms of the year. Why? Because what you do between now and July determines how strong, stable and sustainable your setting will be when September arrives. With many settings now experiencing lower autumn occupancy, rising costs, and increasingly complex staffing pressure

Running a charity managed pre-school or nursery is a team effort, and the Secretary plays a quiet but essential part in keeping everything organised, compliant and running smoothly. While the role often sits behind the scenes, a good Secretary is the glue that holds the committee together ensuring communication is clear, records are accurate and the charity meets its legal responsibilities. In early years settings, where many trustees are volunteers and often parents juggling

A Friendly Guide for Parent Volunteers If you’ve ever looked at the treasurer role on your early years committee and thought, “That sounds a bit intimidating…” you’re definitely not alone. Many treasurers in charity-managed settings are parent volunteers with little to no financial background when they start. The good news? You don’t need to be an accountant to be a great treasurer. What really matters is being organised, willing to learn, and able to ask questions when you’r

A guide for unincorporated organisations in England and Wales Running an early years or childcare setting as a charity is both rewarding and demanding. At the heart of this work sits the chairperson , a pivotal figure who helps steer the organisation, support its people, and ensure that children and families receive the high‑quality provision they deserve. If you’re a chairperson, a trustee stepping into the role, or someone considering taking it on, understanding the respons