The owner of a forest school setting and a deputy nursery manager are among those recognised for their work in early years in the King’s 2024 New Year Honours list.

Donna McWilliams, deputy group co-ordinator at outstanding-rated Stepping Stones nursery in Colchester, Essex, was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to early years and special needs education. McWilliams has been working in early years since the age of 16, and co-founded Stepping Stones in 1991. Stepping Stones aims to give opportunities for children with additional needs and mainstream children to play and learn together.

“I found out when I received a letter saying I was getting an MBE,” said McWilliams. “I was shocked and honoured that someone had nominated me. I am looking forward to going to Buckingham Palace to receive my award and also continuing to work alongside my fabulous work colleagues at Stepping Stones continuing to support our children and families.”

Jacqueline Scrivens, owner of The Woodshed Forest School Nursery in Croydon, South London, was also appointed MBE for services to early years child-led learning.

Enid Bacon, known as Topsy, was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to early education. Bacon founded the Beck Row Pre-School in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, in 1974 and has been involved with the setting ever since. Florence Walker, founder and leader at The Country Playgroup in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, was also awarded a BEM for services to early years education.