Jersey Child Care Trust (JCCT) proudly celebrated excellence in early years practice at its annual awards evening in November, marking the tenth presentation of the Wilma Allan Award. Trustees, supporters, professional partners, and members of the childcare workforce gathered at Société Jersiaise for a reception honouring individuals who make a profound difference to children and families across the Island.
The Wilma Allan Award was created to reflect Wilma’s values; recognising the quiet, unassuming individuals who go above and beyond for others. Wilma’s husband, Gregor Allan, spoke movingly about how the award continues to embody her spirit of compassion and dedication.
This year, three awards were presented:
Wilma Allan Award (10th Year) – Kira Mildren
Kira was celebrated for her exceptional commitment to children at nursery, where twenty children gravitate towards her daily, including six with additional needs. She uses signs and symbols to communicate effectively, knows each child individually, and puts tailored support in place to boost confidence. Parents praise her positive, upbeat approach during morning drop-offs, and her team values her deeply improving the children’s experiences.
“Kira is someone who makes a profound difference every single day,” said Fiona Vacher, Executive Director of JCCT, before the Minister for Education presented the award.
Pirates and Princesses Award – Westmount Day Nursery
For the fourth year running, Westmount Day Nursery raised the most funds as part of JCCT’s Pirates and Princesses fundraising campaign, where children dress up, learn new signs, and raise vital funds for JCCT’s Special Needs Inclusion Programme. Their creativity and commitment help ensure that children with additional needs can thrive in inclusive settings.
Supporter of the Year – Henry Hunt
JCCT Ambassador Henry Hunt has been recognised for his outstanding support and advocacy.
“This individual has not only been supporting and raising money for Jersey Child Care Trust for a number of years now, but also advocates for the work we do and why it makes such a difference,” said Dr Alice Bennion, JCCT’s Programmes and Services Director, who read the citation.
Henry helped form JCCT’s Ambassador Programme in 2022, represented the charity at numerous events including the Royal visit last year, and has spoken alongside Fiona Vacher to audiences of hundreds – often articulating JCCT’s impact better than anyone.
New Award Announced for 2026
JCCT was delighted to announce the launch of the Outstanding Contribution in Early Years Award, sponsored by RBC Wealth for 2026, 2027 and 2028. Three representatives from RBC Wealth – Chris Matthews (Managing Director), David Bailey (Chief Operating Office) and Fiona Waite (Senior Client Director) – joined the celebration to unveil this exciting new award, which will honour individuals whose sustained impact has transformed early years care in Jersey.
The idea for the award came from a conversation with Bethany Patterson, winner of 2024 Wilma Allan Awards who suggested recognising those who have dedicated decades to the sector.
“Her mum has worked for decades in early years, providing care, love and learning to hundreds of children,” explained Fiona Vacher. “Bethany’s suggestion inspired us to create an award that celebrates this incredible lifelong contribution.”
As JCCT celebrates ten years of the Wilma Allan Award, the Trust remains committed to recognising those who quietly transform lives through dedication, empathy and excellence in childcare.
Photography by Jade Beaumont Photography
