Early Years Apprentice, Cheddar, Somerset

Role Overview

Salary: Apprenticeship wage in line with current UK regulations
Hours: 40 hours per week (typical)
Contract: Fixed-term Apprenticeship

We are recruiting a motivated and caring Early Years Apprentice to join our nursery team. This apprenticeship offers an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience and a recognised childcare qualification while working with children aged 0–5. You will work as part of the room team under the supervision of the Room Manager and senior staff, supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing in a safe and nurturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Childcare and Learning

• Assist in providing high‑quality care, play and learning experiences that support children's development and wellbeing.

• Support the planning and delivery of age‑appropriate activities in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

• Help prepare learning environments, resources and activities to support daily routines and planned experiences.

• Observe children and contribute to assessments, records and next steps under guidance from senior staff.

Safeguarding, Health and Safety

• Follow all safeguarding, child protection, health and safety and welfare procedures at all times.

• Support children's personal care routines, including hygiene, meals and rest, in line with nursery policies.

• Report any concerns about children's wellbeing or safety to a senior member of staff promptly.

Partnership with Parents and Carers

• Welcome children and families warmly and professionally each day.

• Build positive and respectful relationships with parents and carers, sharing information about children's care and development.

• Support children through transitions, including settling in and room changes.

Teamwork and Professional Development

• Work collaboratively as part of the room and wider nursery team.

• Act professionally, reliably and responsibly at all times.

• Take part in apprenticeship training, on‑the‑job mentoring and regular supervision.

• Be open to feedback and committed to ongoing professional development.

Apprenticeship Details

• Structured apprenticeship programme leading to a recognised Early Years/Childcare qualification (level dependent on programme).

• Combination of workplace learning and off‑the‑job training with a training provider.

• Support from an experienced mentor and access to in‑work assessments.

• Typical duration: dependent on the apprenticeship standard and prior qualifications.

Person Specification

Essential

• A genuine passion for working with young children and families.

• Willingness to learn, be reliable and work as part of a team.

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.

• Willingness to undertake required pre‑employment checks (including an enhanced DBS).

Desirable

• Any prior experience of working with children (paid, voluntary or caring role).

• Existing GCSEs or equivalent qualifications in English and Maths (or willingness to achieve these during the apprenticeship).

• Knowledge of the EYFS or related early years practice.

Why work for us

Our culture is built around our ARCH values: Accountability, Reliability, Caring and Honesty . We believe in recognising success, supporting wellbeing, and creating opportunities for everyone to reach their full potential. We're proud to be a Sunday Times Best Place to Work and a Great Place to Work® certified organisation , reflecting our commitment to creating an engaging and supportive workplace.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary

• Generous annual leave entitlement

• Continuous professional development and fully funded training

• Leadership development programmes

• Excellent career progression opportunities across our growing group

• Employee recognition and reward schemes

• Wellbeing support and employee benefits platform

• Discounted childcare (where applicable)

• Team events and celebrations

• An inclusive, supportive, and values-driven culture

Grow Your Career With Us

Whether you're an experienced Nursery Manager or looking to take the next step in your leadership journey, we'll invest in your development and provide opportunities to progress within a growing organisation. Many of our leaders have developed their careers with us, and we're committed to helping our people achieve their ambitions.

Our commitment to safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references, an enhanced DBS check and safer recruitment processes.

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