Katie Mills
Divisional Nursery Leader
1. What inspired you to work in education recruitment?
As an early years practitioner, I developed a deep understanding of the importance of having the right people in place to shape young minds. The daily interactions with children, seeing how much they benefit from passionate and skilled educators, inspired me to help ensure that nurseries have access to the best talent. Transitioning into education recruitment allowed me to make an even broader impact, not just in one area but across many, by matching dedicated professionals with the environments where they and we can make the difference.
2. What is your favourite part about working with Nurseries?
My favourite part about working with nurseries is seeing the impact that the right match can have. When a nursery finds a practitioner who truly connects with the children and the team, it creates an environment where children can thrive. I love being part of that process—Link3’s motto is “making a positive impact on the lives of young people by creating employment and training opportunities for those seeking a thriving career within the education sector” knowing that I’m helping to build these nurturing spaces where young children can develop confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning is a process I’m proud to be a part of.
3. If you could share one piece of advice with someone considering a career in education, what would it be?
If you are considering a career in education, my advice is to lead with passion and patience. Education, especially in the early years, is about much more than teaching; it is about shaping lives, fostering emotional and social growth, and being a consistent source of support for children. It is not always easy, but it is always incredibly rewarding. Make sure you are in it for the right reasons, because when you are, the positive impact you will have on children’s lives will be immeasurable.
Biography
As a recruitment consultant, I thrive in the fast-paced world of matching talent with opportunity, constantly on the move to connect the right people with the right roles. My days are filled with interviews, client meetings, and strategising to find the best fits for every position. But amidst the hustle, I prioritise finding time for myself—whether it is hitting the gym to stay active and energised, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying some downtime to recharge. Balancing a demanding career with fitness, social life, and self-care is not always easy, but a well-rounded life is key to staying focused and successful, both personally and professionally.
As much as I loved being an early years practitioner, I soon discovered that my passion extended beyond this; some would say I am part of the problem! I wanted to make a difference on a larger scale—to help shape the very foundations of education by ensuring that nurseries have access to the best and brightest educators. This revelation inspired me to pivot into the education recruitment sector, where I could combine my love for early years education with my natural talent for helping people.
Now, as an education recruitment specialist, I bring a unique perspective to the table. I know firsthand what it takes to engage, inspire, and educate young minds, and I am passionate about supporting nurseries with educators who share that same commitment. My experience in the role as an Early Years Practitioner has honed my ability to recognise not just qualifications, but the qualities that make a truly great practitioner—patience, creativity, empathy, and a genuine love for early years.
I am driven by the belief that every child deserves a teacher who will light up their world, and I am on a mission to find those educators and connect them with the schools where they can make the biggest impact. Whether I am working with seasoned professionals or fresh talent just starting their journey, my goal is to build strong, lasting partnerships that elevate the standard of education and create brighter futures for all. If you are considering a career in education, my advice is to lead with passion and patience. Especially in the early years, is about much more than teaching; it is about shaping lives, fostering emotional and social growth, and being a consistent source of support for children. It is not always easy, but it is always incredibly rewarding. Make sure you are in it for the right reasons, because when you are, the positive impact you will have on children’s lives will be immeasurable.