Nikki Sexton, founder of KidsStop, has been recognised at the Influential Woman in Business Awards 2026, celebrating her remarkable journey, resilience, and long-standing contribution to early years education and childcare.
Nikki’s journey with KidsStop began in 2007. Starting with just one after-school club, two children, and one member of staff, she has grown the business into a respected childcare provider. At its peak, KidsStop expanded to nine settings, and today Nikki operates three, including a preschool, wraparound care for children aged 2 to 12, and a day nursery for children aged 0 to 4. She is now preparing to open a new setting in March 2026, following recent Ofsted approval.
When she first started, Nikki had no formal business experience and was entirely self-taught. Determined to succeed, she committed to continuous professional development, gaining qualifications in Early Years Childcare and Education, Playwork, and becoming an accredited SENCO to better support children with additional needs. She later achieved a Level 5 in Leadership and Management with chartered status and is currently studying for a Level 7 MA in Senior Early Years Leadership.
Her passion for childcare began at just 19 years old while working abroad in Tenerife, running a children’s club independently. That experience shaped her future. “When I came back, I knew this was what I wanted to do,” she reflects. With encouragement from a head teacher and support from The Prince’s Trust, Nikki took the leap into business and never looked back.
Throughout her career, Nikki has consistently achieved Good and Outstanding Ofsted ratings and has received multiple awards, including Businesswoman of the Year. However, she credits her motivation to the children themselves. After 28 years in the sector, watching them grow into confident and independent individuals remains her driving force.
One of her greatest challenges came during Covid, when the future of her business was uncertain. Instead of stepping back, Nikki made the bold decision to renovate and reopen a nursery at risk of closure. “I could have given up, but I fought instead,” she says. Today, that nursery is fully booked two years in advance, with over 120 families waiting for places.
Her advice to other women is honest and grounded in experience. “It’s not going to be easy, but stay focused. If you are passionate enough, the love for what you do will help you achieve. Be prepared to put the work in because it becomes your life, but the reward and the difference you make is worth it.”
Nikki’s work is centred around creating nurturing environments where children feel safe, supported, and able to learn through play. She takes particular pride in supporting children with special educational needs and preparing them for school with the right foundations.
Among her proudest achievements is transforming a struggling nursery into a warm, home-from-home setting and building a strong reputation supported by the local community. Her latest project is equally ambitious, converting countryside barns into a high-quality childcare setting surrounded by nature. With dozens of families already waiting before opening, the project is set to be another success.
Winning this award has come at an important time.
“Winning any award gives you a boost and helps morale. It reminds you that you can do this and gives you back your fight, especially when things become challenging. This came at the right time.”
Nikki also reflects on the importance of those who supported her early on, particularly the head teacher who encouraged her to start. “If it wasn’t for her, I don’t think I would be where I am today.”
From humble beginnings to multiple thriving settings, Nikki Sexton’s journey with KidsStop is a powerful example of resilience, passion, and commitment to making a lasting difference in children’s lives.
Website: https://kidsstop.co.uk
Telephone: 07769 515958
Email: nikki@kidsstop.co.uk
