We asked our apprentices a some questions to give you an insight into our apprenticeship Programme.
How long did the apprenticeship take? Approximately 1 - 2 years, but it depends on which level you want to take.
How did you find your apprenticeship? Really useful, helpful, and educational. I had a really good support system with the team I worked alongside. I found it insightful and was eager to learn from the very beginning.
Would you recommend it? If so why? Yes, I feel it is a good way to start a career childcare. Having on the job experience has really opened my eyes to what the nursery is like day to day. The course is tailored to your needs and the college were extremely helpful.
What were the benefits of completing an apprenticeship over attending college? I feel that on the job experience really helped my development and help me gain my confidence to work with children and alongside my peers. The hands on approach with learning is something I prefer and feel that this has helped me become the educator I am today.
What did you learn? I learned all about the children's developmental stages. It really opened my eyes to how independent children can be from such a young age and how we can contribute to their development so that they can flourish into confident, caring young children.
What’s the best thing about working with children? I have built bonds with many children over my time in childcare and watching them grow and seeing the impact I have made to them is inspiring.
Do you have to take any exams? Yes, towards to end of my course.
Can you choose to do a level 2 or level 3 apprenticeship? I completed the level 2 course and would like to continue to level 3 in the future.
What jobs can you do now that you are qualified? I continue to look after the children and be apart of their development. I have more skills and knowledge that I can put into practice and it has opened another door to new opportunities for my career as I have recently been appointed to Team Leader.
What is your favourite part of the day? When I have set up activities for the children to play with and explore, watching them learn gives me the drive to continue to work to the best of my ability each day.
Is it a lot of work to get your qualification? It is a lot of coursework and assignments but as you complete each task you become more invested in shaping the minds of the children you look after. Childcare is my passion and I am so glad I chose this career path.
