Former Chair of Trustees, Sarah Steel, receives OBE on her birthday
Wednesday 12 November marked a double celebration for Sarah Steel as she attended her investiture ceremony to receive her OBE, an honour made even more special as it coincided with her birthday!
Sarah was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours 2025 for her outstanding contribution to the sector, acknowledging over two decades of leadership and advocacy for high quality early years education. Having founded The Old Station Nursery in 2002, Sarah has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children and families. Her commitment to nurturing environments, strong community connections and professional excellence has shaped the ethos of the group as it has grown to 79 UK settings.
Sarah previously said upon receiving the honour:
“I am incredibly proud and deeply humbled to be awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours. I’m especially grateful to the NDNA for nominating me – this recognition truly reflects the dedication of so many amazing people I’ve had the privilege to work alongside over the years.
“I feel immensely lucky to be part of such a passionate and impactful sector, and to be able to help shape the lives of children and families across the country.”
Purnima Tanuku, Executive Chair of NDNA, also congratulated Sarah on this latest milestone:
“We are absolutely delighted to see Sarah formally receive her OBE today. This honour is a testament to her tireless dedication and her lasting impact on early years education.
“As a former Chair of Trustees and long time NDNA member, Sarah has been a driving force for positive change by supporting nurseries, championing practitioners and ensuring that all children can thrive through access to high quality early education.
“During her time as NDNA Chair, she guided us through some of the sector’s most challenging years, from the pandemic to funding reforms, always with a clear focus on the needs of children and families. Her leadership, both within NDNA and through The Old Station Nursery, continues to inspire so many across our sector.”
Commenting on the ceremony, Adelle Taylor, CEO at The Old Station Nursery added:
“We’re all thrilled to see Sarah’s achievements recognised in such a special way. Her leadership and vision have inspired so many within our nurseries and the wider Early Years community. The fact that her investiture falls on her birthday makes it even more meaningful – a wonderful day of celebration for someone who has given so much to others.”
- Chair of Trustees.
- childcare
- early education
- NDNA
- Sarah Steel
Similar Articles
Nursery employment programme ready to launch for veterans and partners
Government Pulse survey shows most nursery costs higher than income
