Kimberley Cookson, a 22-year-old nursery worker, pleaded guilty to gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the death of 14-month-old Noah Sibanda at Fairytales Day Nursery in Dudley, U.K.

Noah was taken to the hospital following the incident on December 9, 2022, but unfortunately could not be saved and passed away shortly after.

In the wake of Noah's death, Ofsted suspended the nursery's registration due to serious concerns regarding children's safety.

Deborah Latewood, the 54-year-old owner of the nursery, pleaded not guilty to failing to comply with health and safety regulations that allegedly put Noah and other children at risk.

Noah's mother, Masi Sibanda, described her son as a 'handsome, beautiful, cute boy' who was 'lovable' and always smiling.

During the court appearance at Wolverhampton Crown Court, Cookson and Latewood confirmed their identities and entered their pleas in front of a courtroom filled with supporters and family members of Noah.

Cookson's sentencing will occur after a trial expected to last three weeks, while both defendants were released on unconditional bail until their next hearing.

Judge Michael Chambers KC indicated that Latewood and the nursery company would face trial, likely scheduled for 2026, with a pre-trial review set for December 5, 2025.

Fairytales Nursery Limited has entered a not guilty plea to charges of corporate manslaughter and failing to comply with health and safety regulations, including inadequate staff training and supervision.

Malcolm McHaffie, Head of the Crown Prosecution Service’s Special Division, stated that charges were authorized after a thorough review of the evidence.

Judge Chambers acknowledged Cookson's guilty plea and noted that she would receive appropriate credit for it during her sentencing.