Cathedral View Childcare has been recognised as one of the UK’s leading employers, taking home Silver for Employer of the Year at the SME National Business Awards 2026.
The Ely-based childcare provider, which operates three nurseries across Ely and Littleport, celebrated its latest achievement at the prestigious awards ceremony held in London on Friday 6th November, adding to an already remarkable year of business success.
The national recognition follows Cathedral View’s triumph at the SME Cambridgeshire Business Awards earlier this year, where the company was crowned Overall Winner, alongside securing Gold for Employer of the Year and Silver for Business Woman of the Year.
Founded in 2018, Cathedral View has grown from a small childminding business into a thriving nursery group, with a strong reputation for investing in its people and creating a workplace where staff feel genuinely valued, supported and appreciated.
At the heart of its success is a commitment to looking after employees as individuals, recognising that a happy, supported workforce is fundamental to providing exceptional care and education for children.
The company’s approach goes far beyond traditional employee benefits. Alongside a monthly bonus scheme, staff appreciation gifts, work anniversary celebrations and fully funded team events, Cathedral View places particular importance on supporting employees through life’s challenges.
From arranging counselling and offering flexible working to providing practical support with transport and personal circumstances, the management team prides itself on being there for employees when they need it most.
Professional development is equally important, with significant investment in training, apprenticeships, mentoring and internal progression, enabling staff to develop rewarding, long-term careers within the early years sector.
This commitment to celebrating its people was also reflected in the awards evening itself, with Cathedral View once again inviting members of its team to attend the London ceremony and share in the celebrations. The company regularly funds opportunities for employees to attend prestigious events, recognising that these achievements belong to the whole team and providing staff with experiences they might not otherwise have the opportunity to enjoy.
This people-first approach has helped Cathedral View build a loyal, motivated workforce, with strong staff retention and a supportive workplace culture that benefits both employees and the families who rely on them.
Hayley Pierson, Director of Cathedral View Childcare, said:
“To receive national recognition for something we care so passionately about is incredibly special. We’ve always believed that being a good employer is about so much more than providing a job or a salary. It’s about genuinely caring for the people who work for you, celebrating their achievements and being there for them when life gets difficult.
“Our team gives so much of themselves every day to the children and families in our care, and I think it’s only right that we give that same level of care and commitment back to them.
“It was wonderful to once again take members of our team along to celebrate with us in London. These awards aren’t just about the business or its directors; they’re a reflection of the incredible people who make Cathedral View what it is, and being able to share those moments with them makes the recognition even more meaningful.
“Having already been recognised at the Cambridgeshire awards earlier this year, to now bring home Silver on the national stage is a huge achievement for our entire team. We’re incredibly proud to be representing both Cambridgeshire and the early years sector amongst some of the country’s most successful businesses.”
The latest award marks another milestone in Cathedral View’s continued growth and success, demonstrating that investing in employee wellbeing, recognition and development can make a meaningful difference to both business performance and the quality of services delivered.
For Cathedral View Childcare, the message is simple: looking after the people who care for our children isn’t just good business practice – it’s at the heart of everything they do.
Website: www.cathedralviewchildcare.co.uk
You must be logged in to post a comment.