Peggy Lane remembers when Marrickville was known for its poverty, and her days working at the local childcare centre were spent bathing children, washing their dirty clothes, and combing their hair for lice.

She remembers when the hot lunch she served was all her tiny charges would eat that day, when their toys were made from cardboard and glue, and when no qualifications were required beyond empathy, patience and a willingness to be silly.

"It was for people in real need," Mrs Lane said. "The care was different, because the people were very poor. We were like social workers."

After 45 years at Sydney Day Nursery (now SDN) Marrickville, thousands of children and far too many nappies, Mrs Lane, 81, will retire this month. It would be a remarkable tenure in any industry but is particularly so in childcare, which is known for its high staff turnover.