Choosing the finalists for the Progressive Preschool Awards is always one of the most important parts of the awards process, but this year there was also the matter of a global pandemic to navigate. A swift move to a virtual entry and judging process saw the 2020 awards stay on track, with winners due to be announced next Thursday (12 November) in what promises to be the industry’s biggest online gathering this year.
Despite the difficulties it has faced over the past year, the preschool sector has continued to invent, innovative and thrive throughout; so when faced with a number of ongoing Covid-related restrictions and limitations, this year’s entry and judging process was quickly moved online, ensuring the awards could continue to highlight the very best within the preschool industry.
A brand new website and online entry portal allowed all entries and judging to take place virtually – and as ever, the integrity of the overall judging process was crucial.
All product categories were judged by an extensive panel of retailers, while the retailer award categories were assessed by a panel of industry experts, all making their decisions from the comfort of their own homes, shop floors or offices.
This year’s product judging panel comprised buyers from some of the nation’s top retailers – such as John Lewis, Tesco, Bentalls, Character.com and The Entertainer as well as a number of specialist independent retailers. They spent time putting thousands of products under the virtual spotlight, choosing from a record-breaking number of entries, spanning a wide range of the very best toys, strollers, books and nursery essentials on the market today.
The judges considered each category in turn, taking into account certain key criteria such as design, cost, innovation and quality before choosing their top five products from that particular category, listed in order of preference. Votes were then verified and counted, revealing the finalists in each category, along with the eventual winner, which will be announced at the online ceremony taking place next Thursday, 12 November.
“It seemed very strange doing the judging from home at first, but I enjoyed being able to look through the categories at my leisure – the set up was great and easy to navigate. I was impressed that you did not have to do it all in one sitting and it offered a really great way of being able to compare and contrast all the submissions. Well worth the effort!”
Lisa Rutherford, nursery buyer, John Lewis
“2020 has been such a strange year for everyone and it is amazing how we have all adapted to virtual life. This year’s Progressive Preschool Awards judging did not disappoint, with an impressive variety across each category demonstrating what the industry is all about.”
Lucy Long, buyer, Character.com
“It was an honour to judge this year’s prestigious Progressive Preschool Awards. Although the task was daunting due to the high calibre of entrants in all categories, it was also a pleasure knowing that so many great brands will receive the recognition they truly deserve. Congratulations to all the brands shortlisted and especially the category winners!”
Jeff Mills, owner, Baby & Co
“I absolutely loved judging all the entries that were put forward this year. It took many hours sitting at my computer but the quality, thought and design that had gone into each product was a credit to all those involved. As a retailer it gives me hope that creative people are out there making wonderful things for children, safe, practical, beautiful and always with the child at its centre. It wasn’t an easy task this year but I gave it lots of time and a great deal of thought as I understand the importance of these awards for everyone involved. Congratulations to you all.”
Jayne Rees, owner, Eve’s Toy Shop
“Being a judge was extremely interesting and it was encouraging to see the high number of entries and the high calibre of the products put forward for the awards. Good luck to everyone and thank you for allowing me to play a small part in the judging process.”
Helen Hickman, owner, Bumpstart Baby Shop
“It’s interesting to see some of our suppliers are up for many awards this year and it makes us feel more confident about working with them! There were so many products to choose from and the quality of the entires was incredible – I even found a few inspirations for new products for our shop along the way. It was such a fun experience and I am so grateful to have been part of this.”
Ivy Rudd, owner, The Rocking Horse Toy Shop
“The standard of imagination, quality and professionalism was outstanding – it was so difficult to choose when the bar was set so high.”
Emma Charlesworth, director, Baby Birds
