Celebrating Pride Month at N: Creating a culture where everyone belongs

At N, we believe every child, family and team member deserves to feel valued, respected and included.

This Pride Month, we're taking a moment to reflect on what belonging really means, not just during June, but every day of the year. Because when people feel accepted, supported and able to be themselves, they thrive. And that's exactly the kind of culture we're committed to creating across the N Family.

While Pride is a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, it is also an opportunity to recognise the importance of acceptance, equality and respect in helping people feel safe, valued and empowered to be themselves.

These values are at the heart of everything we do, shaping the experiences we create for children, families and team members alike.

Why inclusion matters in early years

The early years are a crucial time in a child's development. During this period, children begin to understand themselves, others and the world around them.

By creating environments built on kindness, empathy and respect, we help children develop confidence in who they are while learning to appreciate and celebrate the unique qualities of others.

When children feel seen, heard and valued, they thrive. The same is true for adults.

That's why we're committed to creating nurseries and workplaces where everyone feels welcome, supported and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

Creating a workplace where everyone belongs

At N, inclusion isn't something that exists only in policies or values statements. It's reflected in the way we work together and support one another. For Matthew, our Room Manager from N Godalming, inclusivity is about being able to bring your authentic self to work without feeling the need to change who you are.

"To me, inclusivity means feeling comfortable bringing my whole self to work without having to filter who I am or worry about whether I fit a particular mould. It's about knowing that different perspectives, backgrounds, experiences and ways of thinking are genuinely welcomed and valued. Inclusivity isn't just about being invited into the room; it's about feeling heard, respected and encouraged to contribute once you're there."

Eleni, our New Openings Manager, shares a similar perspective.

"To me, inclusivity just means being able to be yourself and express who you are in your own unique way. N doesn't treat you like a number or try to fit you into a box. It's a place that actually looks at you as an individual and values you for exactly who you are."

Together, their experiences reflect the culture we strive to create across the N Family: one where individuality is celebrated, differences are respected and every voice matters.

A culture we're proud of

Our commitment to creating a culture of belonging is reflected in the experiences of our team.

In 2025, N was certified as a Great Place to Work UK for the second year running. This recognition means so much because it comes directly from the people who make N what it is every day.

An incredible 90% of our team took part in the Great Place to Work survey, helping us achieve a Happiness Score of 7.9. One sentiment stood out particularly strongly: 86% of our team said they are proud to tell others they work at N.

Every recognition like this is a reminder that we're building something special, a place where people feel they belong, where passion and purpose are recognised, and where every contribution is valued.

What belonging looks like at N

For many people, belonging isn't about a company logo or a job title. It's about the people around you.

Matthew reflects on the support he experienced when joining N:

"From the beginning, I felt welcomed and accepted, not because I had all the answers, but because people were willing to support me, share their knowledge and make me feel part of the team. There's a real sense that everyone's contribution matters, regardless of role or tenure, and that creates an environment where you can be yourself and do your best work."

Eleni describes belonging in a way that beautifully captures the spirit of N.

"I don't really feel like I belong to a company. For me, it's about belonging to a group of people who share the same passion: providing the best care and education, having fun and creating memories together. Being part of this group makes me feel truly valued and respected, and that's what makes me feel like I belong."

Their experiences highlight something we hear time and time again across N: belonging grows when people feel connected by a shared purpose and supported by those around them.

It's the small things that matter

Often, it's not the big milestones that leave the greatest impression. It's the everyday moments that remind us we're valued.

For Eleni, it's the small gestures that make N special.

"For me, it's not about big, special moments. What stays with me are all the small things like when someone takes the time for a quick walk, a coffee or just a chat to listen and be listened to. That's what N is to me, just a special place where you can be yourself."

Matthew shares a similar experience.

"There have been moments when colleagues and leaders have taken the time to check in, offer support or simply listen. Those interactions have reinforced that I'm valued not just for the work I do, but as a person. Those moments have had a lasting impact and have strengthened my sense of belonging within the organisation."

It's often these seemingly small acts of kindness, support and understanding that create a culture where people feel respected, empowered and able to thrive.

Celebrating Pride Month

This Pride Month, we're celebrating the diversity of our N community and recognising the importance of creating environments where everyone feels seen, heard and valued.

We're proud of the culture we've built together and remain committed to ensuring N is a place where children, families and team members can thrive.

Because when people feel they belong, extraordinary things happen. And that's something worth celebrating.