From Nursery Assistant to People Director: Charlotte Percival Celebrates Tops Parkstone’s 35th Anniversary

As Tops Parkstone turns 35, we pause to appreciate the journey that has shaped the nursery into the dynamic and beloved place it is today. For many staff members, their journey began decades ago, and through dedication, hard work, and the support of the incredible team around them, they’ve grown alongside the nursery. In this blog, we hear from Charlotte Percival, People Director, who joined Tops Parkstone in 1996, sharing her memories, career milestones, and the lasting impact that her time at the nursery has had on both her professional life and personal growth.

When did you join Tops Parkstone and what was your job role?

1996 as a Nursery Assistant, I left college straight after completing my NNEB.

What was the nursery like when you first started, and how does it compare to today?

Very colourful, blue tables and red chairs!  Not like the natural colours and tones we have today. These colours help create a more serene and focused atmosphere for the children, promoting concentration and a sense of calm. The natural colours in our nurseries now reflect our commitment to fostering a space that not only nurtures young minds but also teaches the importance of sustainability from an early age.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Tops Parkstone?

So many!  Maria dressed up as a fairy every Christmas, Pauline and her hamster, the day Kelly broke her foot on the trampoline in the garden, one of 2 children firmly still in my memories, but overall the times we spent taking the children to the library, swimming in the pool at the back of Cheryl’s house, nursery trips and Christmas – parties, staff getting dressed up, church service up the road, party games and lots of food and treats!

What was the most rewarding part of working at Tops Parkstone?

Caring and education the children, it was my first proper role in a day nursery after college and I learnt a lot from the children and the team around me, lots of lovely memories and a career in Tops that I never thought would happen when I started back in 1996.

What traditions or values have remained the same over the years?

Flexibility for children but also for colleagues, the children are at the centre of what we all do and having fun whilst we do it.

What’s one thing you’re most proud of from your time at Tops Parkstone?

I’ve experienced so many proud moments at Tops Parkstone, both through milestones with the children and in my own career. One of my proudest moments was in 2000 when I was promoted to Bournemouth Nursery Manager—the beginning of my management journey with Tops. I was incredibly proud of everything I had achieved. At the time, Tops Bournemouth was the largest day nursery in the area, bringing with it a huge level of responsibility. Since then, I’ve taken on various roles, continuously learning, developing, and growing both professionally and personally.

This journey has led me to my current role as People Director, where I’m still learning, evolving, and feeling proud of all that I’ve accomplished—while also forming some wonderful friendships along the way!  None of which would have been possible without that time I spent at Tops Parkstone and wonderful guidance, support, and care from Maria.

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With a strong foundation at Tops Parkstone, we’ve seen countless staff like Charlotte flourish, our commitment to maintaining a positive, fun environment has remained consistent throughout the years. Here’s to many more years of achievement, growth, and creating unforgettable memories for both the children and the exceptional team who contribute to our success.