THE OWNER of a children’s day nursery and after-school club has been nominated for the Women In Enterprise category in The Press Business Awards 2012.

Ruth Newton, owner of Young Discoverers, based at Escrick Business Park, has been nominated for her investment in staff, which in turn helps to create a “home from home” for more than 100 children a week.

Kathy Wainwright, manager of the nursery, said Ruth gives staff paid study leave to gain qualifications, supports college students and has employed two apprentices who have since successfully qualified and become valued members of the 17-strong team.

Ruth’s previous experience as a bank manager and a mum wanting childcare for her own children has taught her the value of investing in good people, said Kathy.

“Ruth has provided inspiration for other business women, and acted as a role model for her team in establishing a business where the ethos comes straight from the heart, making a real difference to the lives of little people each and every day,” she said.

The nursery cooks all meals freshly on the premises, serving tea later than most nurseries at 5pm to ensure full tummies on pick up, and golden time for parents. It also holds home visits before each child starts to ensure smooth settling in, and establish valuable links with their key person.

The business has traded profitably since its second year, reporting its best month of trading ever on a regular basis. Through fundraising events, the business has created a new outdoor surface, installed a canopy, and this year provided all weather grass to the nursery garden.