Catherine Mann originally though she was headed for a career as a social worker until work experience at a nursery changed her mind altogether.

She knew instantly that childcare was the job for her and joined Clever Clogs immediately after leaving college.
Seven years later, and the 25-year-old is now Senior Practitioner in Little Explorers, the room at our Bowburn nursery for children aged 2 to 3.

Here she makes sure the room is running smoothly, including managing the staff who also work in Little Explorers, carrying out observations on the children and planning activities, to name just a few of her roles.

Catherine says: “There’s nothing better than knowing you have played a part in a child’s development and seeing them grow and achieve.

“It’s not always easy but the rewards are great.”

Outside of work, Catherine is our resident daredevil, having skydived from an aeroplane and bungee jumped.

She adds: “I did them for charity but took no persuasion as it was such a thrill.”