Celebrating Jessica Pickston’s Commitment to Inclusive Practice

Total People apprentice Jessica Pickston has been recognised with a Personal Development Award for her commitment to inclusive practice and continuous professional development.  

Jessica, who works in childcare at Apples and Pears, has shown a thoughtful and proactive approach to supporting children’s individual needs. Before a new child joined the setting, she took the initiative to carry out independent learning, helping her develop a deeper understanding of how the child’s background, family context and personal needs could be met to ensure that they had a positive experience in the setting.  
 

 Supporting every child from the start  

Starting somewhere new can be a big step for any child, and Jessica recognised the importance of helping that transition feel safe, positive and welcoming. By reflecting on the child’s individual circumstances, she considered how routines, interactions and the learning environment could be adapted to support emotional security and a strong sense of belonging.  
 

Her approach highlights the importance of seeing every child as an individual. Through her independent learning and reflection, Jessica showed how personal development can directly improve practice, helping to create an environment where children feel understood, included and supported.  
 

Putting learning into practice  

Jessica’s work stood out for recognition because of the way she applied her learning in the setting. She adapted her own approach, shared information with colleagues and helped embed inclusive strategies into daily routines, providing a strong example of reflective practice in action. 

By taking what she had learned and using it to make a practical difference, Jessica demonstrated professional curiosity, teamwork and a clear commitment to equality and inclusion. Her work shows that personal development is not just about building knowledge. It is about using that knowledge with care, confidence and purpose to make a meaningful difference to others.  

  

Jessica said: 

Thank you for this award. It’s lovely to be recognised for the progress and growth I’ve made.

  

A well deserved recognition  

Jessica’s award celebrates the qualities that make a lasting difference in childcare:  

• Taking the initiative to learn independently  

• Reflecting on each child’s individual needs  

• Adapting practice to support inclusion  

• Sharing learning with colleagues  

• Creating a welcoming environment where children can feel secure and valued. 
   

Her achievement is a brilliant reminder of the impact apprentices can have when they are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. By developing their knowledge, reflecting on their practice and applying what they learn in the workplace, apprentices like Jessica help create stronger, more inclusive settings for the children and families they support.  
 

If Jessica’s story has inspired you, think about joining the growing number of employers who support apprentices on their personal development journeys as they progress through their apprenticeship programmes.  
 

By partnering with Total People, you can help apprentices grow both professionally and personally, making a real impact on their futures. If you’re interested in collaborating or learning more, visit our Employer Hub to explore partnership opportunities.  
 

Everyone at Total People sends huge congratulations to Jessica for her fantastic achievements which make her a truly deserving winner of this award.