A DEDICATED nursery worker who puts her all into going above and beyond for youngsters has been nominated for a Tele community champion award.

Kay Anderson, who is a lead practitioner at Aileymill Nursery, works with little Leyton Story – a Greenock youngster who has battled meningitis and is now living with cerebral palsy.

Kay has had a huge impact on Leyton’s life – and his mum Kirsty wants the big-hearted nursery employee to be commended for her work with the brave youngster.

“Leyton has been through so many problems and Kay has helped him through it all.

“She pushed for Leyton to have physiotherapy and worked with occupational therapy to get him a wheelchair as he gets tired on longer journeys.

“She helped with things that I wouldn’t have thought about and helped us get things I didn’t even realise he needed.

“It’s really helped in his development.

“I would just like to say a big thank you to Kay and to the nursery for everything.”

Kay manages the day-to-day running of the nursery and works with staff to provide an individualised programme for every child.

Ever since she met Leyton, four, she has worked closely with his key worker and staff to find the best ways to support him.

Kay was shocked to hear she had been nominated for an award – and is determined to point out that it is a team effort at Aileymill.

Kay said: “It’s such a surprise. I’m really overwhelmed. Knowing that we’ve had a real impact on Leyton and his family means a lot. It’s great to be recognised for doing your job well.

“It’s a whole team approach in the nursery. We’re all aware of Leyton’s condition and the support that he needs.

“Leyton doesn’t let his disability stop him in any way and likes to try everything. He’s included in all of our activities.

“We have a nurture approach to all children across the whole school.

“Our ethos is learning to learn and learning to care and we treat every child as an individual.”

* You still have time to nominate in our Community Champion Awards. The deadline for entries is Wednesday 25 March.

You can nominate across the following categories:

Community Champion of the Year

Youth Community Champion

Senior Community Champion

Teacher of the Year

Live Music Award

Heart of Gold

Charity Champion of the Year

Business Champion of the Year

Little Champion of the Year

Download the nomination form by visiting www.newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/greenockcommchamp/