Early Years Apprenticeship

You will support the team in providing a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where children can learn, play and thrive. Working alongside experienced practitioners, you will gain hands-on experience in planning activities, supporting children's development, promoting positive behaviour and meeting children's individual needs.

What you'll do

Key Responsibilities – Early Years Apprentice

• Support the daily care, learning and development of children aged 0–5 years
• Assist in planning and delivering fun, engaging and age-appropriate activities
• Help create a safe, happy, welcoming and stimulating environment for all children
• Support children's personal, social, emotional and physical development
• Assist with daily routines, including mealtimes, nappy changing, toileting, sleep times and personal hygiene, as appropriate
• Build positive and nurturing relationships with children, parents, carers and colleagues
• Encourage positive behaviour, independence, confidence and social skills
• Observe children's play and development and contribute to their learning records
• Support children with individual needs and ensure every child feels included and valued
• Follow safeguarding, health and safety, hygiene and nursery policies and procedures

Training

• Work alongside experienced Early Years Practitioners who will provide day-to-day guidance, support and coaching
• Learn how to support children's learning, development, care and well-being through practical experience
• Attend training sessions with an apprenticeship training provider
• Complete a recognised Early Years qualification as part of the apprenticeship
• Develop your knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), safeguarding, child development, health and safety and inclusive practice
• Complete coursework, observations and practical assessments as part of your qualification
• Have regular meetings with your workplace mentor and training provider to review your progress and identify areas for development

After the apprenticeship

• Early Years Apprentice
• Early Years Practitioner
• Qualified Nursery Practitioner
• Senior Early Years Practitioner / Room Leader
• Early Years Deputy Manager
• Nursery Manager
• Early Years Educator or specialist roles, depending on further qualifications and experience

Skills

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Problem solving skills
• Number skills
• Team working
• Creative
• Initiative
• Non judgemental
• Patience
• Physical fitness

Things to consider

• DBS check
• First aid

About the employer

At Rainbow Friends Childcare, we are more than just a nursery - we are a vibrant, loving community dedicated to the growth and development of children aged 5 and under. Our nursery is a place where laughter, curiosity, and creativity thrive. Nestled in the heart of Barking and Dagenham, our warm and welcoming environment is designed to inspire children to learn, play, and explore together.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Early years practitioner (level 2), Education and early years
• Apprenticeship level: Intermediate (level 2)
• Training provider: THELIGHTBULB LTD
• Expected duration: 1 Year 6 Months
• Hours: 20 hours a week. Working week: Monday- Thursday.
• Start date: 13 December 2026
• Positions available: 2
• Wage: £8,320 a year