EDG Nursery

Biography

Özlem is currently on maternity leave and is expected to return in May 2026. During her absence, the nursery continues to be led by the experienced management team, working closely with the directors to ensure continuity, consistency, and the high standards families expect from EDG Nursery.

Merhaba (hello in Turkish), my name is Özlem Ocak. I joined EDG Nursery in September 2016 as an Early Years Educator and have since progressed through a range of roles within the early years sector.

After graduating from the University of Greenwich, I discovered my passion for early years practice while working in a nursery setting and have remained committed to the sector ever since. My experience includes working as a classroom educator, Room Leader, Floor Manager, and Nursery Assistant/Deputy Manager.

I am also the Special Educational Needs and Disability Coordinator (SENDCo) for the setting, supporting children, educators, and families through close partnership working and liaison with external professionals.

A study visit to Reggio Emilia, Italy, in 2019 greatly influenced my practice and strengthened my belief in child-led learning and the importance of supervised risk-taking. I focus on developing skills rather than directing how children should play, valuing the learning that naturally emerges through exploration and curiosity.

I believe children thrive when they are given the space to try, build confidence, and learn through the process, not just the outcome. At EDG, we work together as a community to Educate, Develop, and Grow.