The Northumberland Early Years Professionals Network has been shortlisted for a national award.

The annual Nursery World awards shine a light on best practice from across the UK and are open to everyone involved in early years education and childcare.

The Northumberland network is led by the county council’s early years team in partnership with the department of social work, education and community wellbeing at Northumbria University and has been shortlisted in the team development category, which recognises good practice in recruitment and retention, training and career development .

Formed just two years ago, the Northumberland network has supported partnership working and staff recruitment, especially promoting men in early years and childcare.

The network promotes best practice in early years across the council, with all of its activity aimed at promoting the best outcomes for children.

Theresa Iley from the Northumberland Early Years Team said: “This is brilliant news and fantastic recognition of the commitment and dedication shown by our members towards quality improvement and best practice; positively impacting on children and families in Northumberland.”

Kay Heslop from Northumbria University added: “We have built a hugely supportive network across Northumberland over the past two years. The awards provide a great opportunity to be recognised and celebrated so we are excited to share our celebration in reaching this stage.”

Coun. Wayne Daley, cabinet member for children’s services at Northumberland County Council added: “I know how hard the team works and how much support they give to early years practitioners across Northumberland.”

Winners will be announced on September 28 at an event in London.