THE contribution by two members of staff of an early years centre in Newtownards, was recognised when they received an invitation to attend a garden party hosted by the Royal Family at Buckingham Palace.
Janice Mawhinney and Daphne Nicholl, from Bees Nees Early Years Centre, attended the event on Wednesday after they were nominated by the Department of Education in recognition of their ‘exceptional dedication and contribution to early years education’.
The party, attended by King Charles and Queen Camilla, celebrated individuals and organisations from across the UK who have made significant contributions to education and skills within their communities.
Janice and Daphne were acknowledged for their dedication to creating a nurturing and inspiring learning environment for young children at Bees Nees. Both have over 33 years of experience in the Early Years sector, with Janice spending 14 years and Daphne eight years at Bees Nees.
Janice, the Bees Nees centre manager, is also the founder of Curriculum and Programme Support (CAPS), an independent early year’s specialist service that supports numerous preschools and daycare settings across the province.
Janice said: “It was an absolutely incredible day, a real once-in-a-lifetime experience. To be invited to Buckingham Palace and recognised for something we are so passionate about was both surreal and deeply humbling.
“It was wonderful to share the day with so many inspiring people who are making a positive impact in their communities,” she said.
Daphne, the Early Years coordinator and manager at Bees Nees, said: “Walking through the gates of Buckingham Palace was a moment we’ll never forget. Representing Bees Nees and being acknowledged for the work we do with children and families in Newtownards was such an honour. It’s an experience I look forward to telling the children all about.”
Emma Clegg, chair of the Board of Directors at Bees Nees Early Years Centre, expressed her pride in the recognition.
“The children, parents and board members at Bees Nees all know how dedicated Janice and Daphne are to providing exceptional early years education and a nurturing environment for our children,” she said.
“They consistently go above and beyond for the children, and we are thrilled that their hard work and commitment has been acknowledged in this way.”
