Meet the Manager: Michelle Gould
Michelle Gould has been part of the Tiny Toez Treehouse
story for many years, and her journey into early years began long before she became a nursery manager.
“From a young age, I have always had a passion for
working with children,” she explains. That passion led her to complete her
childcare qualifications straight after finishing school and begin her career
as a practitioner. Over time, she progressed into a team leader role and then
nursery manager, eventually moving to Tiny Toez, where she has now been for 17
years.
Walking through the nursery each day gives Michelle a strong sense of how children are feeling in the setting. For her, it is the everyday moments that matter most.
“When I walk through the nursery, it brings me joy to see the children arriving with smiles, happiness, and plenty of laughter,” she says. “I love it when they approach the staff and me, showing their comfort and trust.”
Supporting children who need a little extra help is an important part of her role, and Michelle is clear about the importance of early intervention and partnership with families.
“We have established robust intervention and support packages for children who may need a little extra help,” she explains, “and we always make sure to involve parents in this process and set achievable targets together.”
Behind the scenes, Michelle is just as focused on the wellbeing of her team, especially during the darker winter months. She speaks warmly about the culture at Treehouse and the way staff support one another.
“The team at Treehouse is wonderful, and we really uplift one another,” she says. “We even host wellbeing mornings, and I keep my office door open, encouraging staff to come and chat anytime they need support.”
This supportive and people centred approach to leadership was recognised nationally when Michelle won Nursery Manager of the Year at the Nursery Management Today Awards 2025. The moment took her by surprise.
“I was truly surprised and honoured to be named Nursery Manager of the Year,” she says, “a recognition that means everything to me.” She is quick to share the credit, adding that “this achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing support of my deputy and our fantastic team.”
When reflecting on what matters most in leadership, Michelle comes back to relationships.
“As a new nursery manager, I believe building strong relationships with staff is crucial,” she says, “as it fosters dedication and hard work for our children and their families.”
Looking back on the year just gone, Michelle takes pride in the collective effort of her team and the learning that comes with each day.
“I take pride in everything we accomplish together every day,” she says, “as each day presents new challenges and experiences that help us grow.”
With her experience, steady leadership and genuine passion for early years, Michelle continues to guide Tiny Toez Treehouse as a place where children feel secure, families feel supported, and teams feel valued.
Michelle Gould has been part of the Tiny Toez Treehouse family since 2009 and her passion for early years runs through everything she does. From seeing children arrive each morning with smiles and laughter, to supporting her team through open conversations and wellbeing mornings, Michelle leads with care, experience and heart. Recently named Nursery Manager of the Year at the Nursery Management Today Awards 2025, she remains focused on what matters most, building strong relationships so children, families and staff can thrive together.