- SCHOOL LEAVERS
HOME GROWN
HEROESKeira Gilbert
Manager at Mini Explorers Childcare
BA Childhood and Youth Home Grown Heroes
Keira Gilbert
Manager at Mini Explorers Childcare
BA Childhood and Youth When Keira Gilbert decided to pursue her passion for supporting vulnerable families, she knew staying local for her studies was crucial. Her journey through University Centre Grimsby not only developed her professional skills but ultimately led her to open her own nursery, making a real difference in her community.
Keira explained, “I chose University Centre Grimsby because I wanted to remain local while studying, which I think is really important in this sector – to be learning about and training in the town you intend to work.
“When I joined university in 2017, I wanted to become a family-first practitioner. I am very passionate about safeguarding and wanted to help support some of our most vulnerable families.”
Keira began her journey with a foundation degree in Children, Young People and Families from 2017-2019, before returning in 2022 to complete her bachelor’s degree in Childhood and Youth. This educational pathway provided her with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in her chosen field.
However, Keira’s career took an exciting turn when she identified an opportunity to make an even greater impact in her community. This year, she opened her own nursery, Mini Explorers Childcare, on the East Marsh – a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to providing high-quality childcare locally.
“I have just opened my own nursery with a wonderful team of staff who are all equally passionate about providing high-quality care and support for families. The courses helped grow my confidence in myself as a professional, learning to trust my instincts and have a deeper understanding of the underpinning legislations that support my practice.”The importance of having a mentor
Keira credits much of her success to the mentorship and support she received during her studies at University Centre Grimsby.
“I’m hugely grateful to Linda Lobedham for taking on the role of my work mentor and challenging me to continuously improve how I manage, lead and inspire my staff. This guidance has been invaluable as I’ve transitioned from practitioner to business owner and leader.”
The networking opportunities provided by studying locally have also proved invaluable for Keira’s career development.
“A massive benefit I found was being able to network with like-minded students who are now working alongside me in various fields and professional capacities. This local network has been incredibly supportive as I’ve built my business.”
What advice would you give others?
“I hugely recommend University Centre Grimsby to anyone thinking of attending. My advice would be that you don’t need to have your career path figured out just yet, but going to college and university gives you so many transferable skills that will benefit you in any working sector.”
“Studying locally allowed me to build connections within the community I serve, and I truly believe this has been key to my success. The foundation I built at University Centre Grimsby gave me the confidence and knowledge to not just work in my field, but to create my own opportunity and make a real difference in supporting families in our area.”
