Happy Days Nurseries recently brought managers and colleagues together from across the group for its 2026 Managers Conference and Annual Awards, a vibrant and uplifting event celebrating achievements, connection and shared ambition for the year ahead.

With 39 nurseries across South England and Wales, the conference offered a valuable opportunity to reunite teams, reflect on progress and align around future goals. The day was designed with a clear purpose: to celebrate how far the group has come, strengthen collaboration and energise leaders as they continue to support children, families and teams in their communities.

The atmosphere throughout the day was one of positivity, pride and genuine connection. Managers took time to share ideas, learn from one another and reconnect with colleagues, reinforcing the strength of the Happy Days network. A standout moment came from a lively and inspiring workshop delivered by Boogie Mites, whose music-filled session brought movement, laughter and high energy to the room. The workshop perfectly set the tone for the relaunch of Boogie Mites across Happy Days nurseries, reminding everyone of the power of music, rhythm and joy in early years learning.

The celebrations continued into the evening with the Annual Awards, hosted by compère John Dalziel, whose warmth and humour kept the night flowing and full of laughter. The awards recognised excellence across the business, highlighting the vital contributions of managers, practitioners, apprentices, SENCOs and support centre teams alike.

Award categories reflected the wide range of roles and achievements that make Happy Days what it is, from People Leader of the Year and Apprentice of the Year, to Inspiring Indoor and Outdoor Learning, Community Nursery of the Year and Nursery of the Year. The standard across all nominations was exceptionally high, serving as a powerful reminder of the passion, skill and commitment shown by teams every day.

This year’s winners included Happy Days Bradley Stoke, named Nursery of the Year, alongside individual colleagues recognised for inspirational practice, leadership and dedication. Special recognition awards also celebrated the often unseen work of support centre and nursery teams, reinforcing the message that every role plays a crucial part in the success of the organisation.

Happy Days would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all award sponsors for their continued support, as well as to partners Cosy and Hope Education for joining the celebrations. A special thank you also goes to Boogie Mites and John Dalziel for bringing such memorable energy to the event.

Above all, the conference and awards were a celebration of people. From shared laughter and singing to moments of reflection and pride, the event captured what makes Happy Days special: a strong sense of togetherness, shared values and a commitment to giving children the very best start in life.

As Happy Days looks ahead, the 2026 Managers Conference and Annual Awards served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when passionate people come together with a shared purpose and an exciting foundation for the year to come.

To find your nearest nursery, visit:
https://happydaysnurseries.com/find-a-nursery/

For further details:
0800 783 3431
enquiries@happydaysnurseries.com

The Happy Days Nursery Group is delighted to announce Our Biggest Open House, taking place on Saturday 7 February 2026, from 10am–1pm, across nurseries within the group, including its newest acquisitions.

Designed as a relaxed, drop-in event for local families, Our Biggest Open House is all about opening the door and welcoming communities in to experience what nursery life at Happy Days really feels like. With no timetable and no formal structure, children are free to lead the way as families explore playful learning spaces, meet nursery teams and see how learning happens through everyday moments.

The event reflects Happy Days’ belief that children learn best when they feel safe, supported and at home. From creative play and music, to cosy reading corners, outdoor exploration and calm wellbeing spaces, each nursery will bring the theme to life in its own way, showcasing what makes their setting unique.

This year’s Biggest Open House will also support Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW), one of Happy Days’ Charities of the Year. Families attending are invited to make an optional donation on the day, helping to raise vital funds for children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families.

Children’s Hospice South West provides specialist care across three hospices in the South West, offering not only medical and nursing support, but also emotional care, respite and precious time together for families. Their hospices offer a welcoming, home-from-home environment where families can rest, recharge and feel supported during incredibly challenging times.

By linking Our Biggest Open House with CHSW, Happy Days hopes to bring communities together for a meaningful cause, helping children understand kindness, compassion and the importance of supporting others from an early age.

Our Biggest Open House takes place across participating Happy Days Nursery Group settings on Saturday 7 February 2026, 10:00–13:00. There is no need to book — families are welcome to drop in at a time that suits them.

To find your nearest nursery, visit:
https://happydaysnurseries.com/find-a-nursery/

For further details:
0800 783 3431
enquiries@happydaysnurseries.com