Jersey’s childcare community has come together to celebrate the people who go above and beyond for the island’s youngest children and their families.
The Jersey Child Care Trust’s annual awards evening saw members of the childcare workforce gather with the children’s charity at Société Jersiaise to honour individuals who make a difference to children and families across the island.
“Someone who makes a profound difference every single day”
Three individuals received prizes, including the tenth annual presentation of the Wilma Allan Award, which was created to recognise unassuming individuals who go above and beyond for others. Wilma’s husband Gregor Allan attended the milestone ceremony.
Kira Mildren received the Wilma Allan Award, for her commitment to improving children’s experience at nursery, including supporting those with additional needs.
Education Minister, Deputy Rob Ward presented her with the award.
Four years of success
Westmount Day Nursery then received the Pirates and Princesses Award.
‘Pirates and Princesses’ is the JCCT’s fundraising campaign, where children dress up, learn new signs, and raise funds for the charity’s Special Needs Inclusion Programme.
For the fourth year running, the nursery raised the most funds and received the award for their efforts.
Supporter of the Year
JCCT ambassador Henry Hunt was lastly presented with the Supporter of the Year award for his ongoing advocacy for the trust’s work.
He helped launch the charity’s ‘Ambassador Programme’ in 2022.
Dr Alice Bennion, JCCT’s programmes and services director said of Henry: “This individual has not only been supporting and raising money for Jersey Child Care Trust for a number of years now, but also advocates for the work we do and why it makes such a difference.”
…and a new award on the cards for 2026
Ahead of next year’s ceremony, JCCT announced the launch of the new Outstanding Contribution in Early Years Award, which aims to honour Islanders whose sustained impact has transformed early years care.
The JCCT said the idea for this award came from a conversation with Bethany Patterson, winner of the 2024 Wilma Allan Award, who suggested recognising those who have dedicated decades to the sector.
“Her mum has worked for decades in early years, providing care, love, and learning to hundreds of children,” explained JCCT CEO Fiona Vacher.
“Bethany’s suggestion inspired us to create an award that celebrates this incredible lifelong contribution.”
The new award is being sponsored by RBC Wealth for 2026, 2027, and 2028.
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Jersey Child Care Trust is a charity dedicated to providing all children and families in Jersey with high quality and affordable childcare. Find out more about their work here.