Childcare Apprenticeship

Role

Early Years Apprentice - Cherry Trees Day Nursery, Cranfield, MK43 0ZU.

Contract: 37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Working pattern: Varied shifts Monday-Friday between 07:30 and 18:30. Start dates available from 18 August to 18 September 2026.

Salary: £8.00 per hour at start, rising to £10.41 per hour after six months. If aged 21 or over, after 12 months there is a further increase to £12.74 per hour.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement high-quality, engaging activities linked to the early years curriculum.
• Observe, assess, and record children's progress.
• Ensure every child feels safe, valued, and happy; promote wellbeing and meet individual needs.
• Follow policies, procedures, and direction from management, trainer, and assessor.
• Make effective use of off-job learning time and manage study workload.
• Build strong, positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team.

Qualifications & Experience

• Interest in child development and desire to build a career in early years.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
• Ability to manage time effectively and complete coursework within deadlines.
• Empathy, nurturing, and prioritisation of child safety.

Apprenticeship Details

• Practical experience at the nursery with a dedicated trainer/assessor.
• Regular group training sessions (every 6-8 weeks) at the Academy in Newport Pagnell.
• Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years Practitioner/Educator qualification.
• English and/or maths functional skills qualification if not already held.
• Paediatric first-aid qualification valid for three years.

Eligibility Criteria

• Right to work in the UK and a National Insurance number.
• Valid photographic ID (passport or driving licence).
• Computer (laptop or PC) for online assessment and coursework.
• Residency in the UK for at least the previous three years.
• Comfortable travelling to the Academy; travel costs covered.
• Residence within a commutable distance of the nursery.
• No VISA sponsorship available.
• Enhanced DBS check will be required.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We're committed to FREDIE (fairness, respect, equality, diversity, inclusion, and engagement). Applicants of all ages, backgrounds, and with reasonable adjustments are encouraged to apply.