Early Years Educator Apprenticeship

The apprentice will work as part of the childcare team, supporting the day-to-day care, learning and development of children aged 0-5 years within the setting. They will work under the supervision and guidance of the childminder and experienced staff while developing their knowledge, skills and confidence in early years practice.

What you'll do

Duties will include:

• Supporting children during play and learning activities
• Helping to provide a safe
• Stimulating and inclusive environment
• Assisting with routines such as mealtimes
• Nappy changing
• Toileting and sleep times
• Supporting children's personal care needs

The apprentice will observe children's development and interests and contribute to planning and providing age-appropriate activities based on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). They will also support outdoor play, free-flow activities, settling-in routines and positive relationships with children and families.

They will learn and follow the setting's policies and procedures, including safeguarding, health and safety, food hygiene, infection control, safer sleep and equality and inclusion. They will attend staff meetings and training and complete their apprenticeship learning and assessments alongside their practical work.

As their knowledge and experience develop, the apprentice will be given increasing responsibility appropriate to their level of competence, while always working within the required ratios, safeguarding procedures and supervision arrangements.

Training

Training will include child development, supporting children's learning through play, safeguarding, paediatric first aid, health and safety, food hygiene, equality and inclusion, supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), communication and partnership working with parents and families, observation and assessment, and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

The apprentice will work alongside experienced childcare practitioners and receive regular supervision, support and feedback to develop their practical skills and professional knowledge.

After the apprenticeship

On successful completion of the apprenticeship, the apprentice will have the opportunity to progress into a qualified Early Years Educator/Childminding Assistant role within Cute Cubs, subject to a suitable vacancy and successful completion of their apprenticeship.

They will be able to take on increased responsibility for supporting children's learning, development and care and contribute more independently to the day-to-day running of the setting.

Skills

• Communication skills
• Organisation skills
• Creative
• Patience
• Nurturing, Caring and Kind
• Ability to work with children
• Teamwork
• Genuine interest
• Reliable
• Respectful
• Positive attitude
• Professional and approachable
• Follows instructions
• Committed

Qualifications

• Essential: GCSE, English (grade 4/C)
• Essential: GCSE, Maths (grade 4/C)

About the employer

Cute Cubs is a warm, nurturing and family-focused childcare setting where every child is valued as an individual. We are passionate about providing children with a safe, stimulating and enjoyable environment where they can learn through play, build confidence and develop at their own pace.

For the right apprentice, Cute Cubs offers the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience working with babies and young children while being supported by experienced childcare practitioners. You will not be expected to know everything from day one. We will help you develop your confidence, knowledge and practical skills throughout your apprenticeship.

You will become part of a supportive team where your ideas and contributions are valued. You will have the opportunity to experience different areas of early years practice, work with children of different ages and develop a strong understanding of the EYFS.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Early years educator (level 3), Education and early years
• Apprenticeship level: Advanced (level 3)
• Training provider: ELEV8 TRAINING LIMITED
• Expected duration: 1 Year 6 Months
• Hours: 20 hours a week. Working week: Monday to Friday. 8hr shift pattern. No weekends. Shifts TBC.
• Start date: 30 October 2026
• Positions available: 3
• Wage: £8,320 a year