One of Teesside's largest independent nursery groups has been shortlisted for a major national award.
Thornaby-based independent nursery Montessori People has been shortlisted for the Investors in People Employer of the Year Award.
The award celebrates organisations that go above and beyond for their staff.
The nursery provides early years education and childcare across Teesside while supporting staff and helping them develop professionally.
Its Montessori approach creates nurturing settings where children across Teesside can learn, grow and thrive.
The Montessori People cares for more than 120 children, offering places for babies, toddlers, tweenies and pre-schoolers.
The People Employer of the Year award celebrates organisations like the nursery, that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting, developing and investing in their employees.
Graduates from The Montessori People Class of 25 celebrate by throwing their caps in the air (Image: GARY WALSH)
Michelle Tudor, managing director of The Montessori People, said: "We are absolutely delighted and incredibly proud to have been shortlisted for the Investors in People Employer of the Year Award.
"This recognition means so much because it reflects something that is fundamental to who we are as an organisation, our people.
"Our incredible team is at the heart of The Montessori People.
"Their passion, dedication and commitment make such a difference every single day, and this shortlist recognition is a wonderful acknowledgement of that."
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She added: "We also want to thank our children, families and wider community for their continued trust and support.
"They are an important part of our journey, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has played a part in helping us reach this point."
The Investors in People Awards will take place in November, when the winner of the Employer of the Year category will be announced.
Regardless of the outcome, The Montessori People said being shortlisted represented an important milestone for the nursery, and an opportunity to celebrate its staff.