Apprentice Early Years Lead Practitioner (Level 5) - Woodhouse Nursery

Skern Training; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nursery organization in Sheffield is seeking a Level 5 qualified Early Years Lead Practitioner to join their team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about early years education, able to work independently, and committed to supporting children's development. This role offers competitive pay, ongoing training, and a supportive work environment, with opportunities for career advancement after successful completion of the apprenticeship.

Benefits

Employment incentives and benefits

Supportive training environment

On-site car park

Qualifications

• Knowledge and experience of working with children with SEND is important.
• Paediatric first aid trained is essential.
• Enhanced DBS check required.

Responsibilities

• Assist and support early years professionals in delivering quality education.
• Contribute to the nurturing and development of children aged 0-5 years.
• Engage children through play-based learning activities.

Skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Organisation skills

Customer care skills

Problem solving skills

Administrative skills

Team working

Creative

Initiative

Non judgemental

Patience

Physical fitness

Education

Early Years Level 3 qualified

English and Maths L2 equivalent (GCSE Grade 4 or over)

Job description

Apprentice Early Years Lead Practitioner (Level 5) - Woodhouse Nursery

CAPTION: Job details

• Posting date: 13 November 2025
• Hours: Full time
• Closing date: 13 December 2025
• Location: S13 7PN
• Remote working: On‑site only
• Company: Skern Training & Skills
• Job type: Apprenticeship
• Job reference:

Summary

Are you an experienced Level 3 qualified Early Years professional ready to take the next step in your career as a Level 5 Lead Practitioner? Are you looking for a nursery where you can grow and where they will invest in your development in a supportive and nurturing team?

Woodhouse Nursery in Sheffield is committed to delivering exceptional care and teaching, so that every child can develop, progress and be confident in their abilities. They now have a fantastic opportunity to join their team who are passionate about supporting young children to thrive.

We're looking for someone who shares their commitment to making a meaningful difference in the nursery and is seeking a long‑term role where they can truly grow. This position is ideal for someone who is committed to early years education and dedicated to staying within the nursery setting. If you're ready to invest in them, they are ready to invest in you - with support, development and a nurturing team environment.

What we are looking for:

• Good team player
• Can use own initiative and be self‑motivated
• Have knowledge and experience of working with children with SEND (important)
• Flexible teaching approach to deliver our curriculum
• Have a good understanding of child development
• Have a friendly, loving and warm manner
• Paediatric first aid trained
• Enhanced DBS check required - completed by the nursery.

The award‑winning nursery has an on‑site car park and it is on a bus route. This is a large nursery, set within a beautiful building and a fantastic outdoor space.

The nursery is Hygge Flagship accredited. They provide an environment and resources where children can learn in the moment using loose parts and natural materials where possibilities are endless. This enables children to use different ways of thinking through awe and wonder.

"Our nursery embraces a play‑based approach rooted in nature, where children explore, discover, and learn through interaction with natural materials like wood, leaves, stones, and water‑nurturing creativity, curiosity, and connection to the world around them."

In return, they offer a range of employee incentives and benefits and a starting pay rate of £12.21 per hour. Contracted hours are 30 per week.

Entry requirements

Essential requirements are:

• Early Years Level 3 qualified
• English and Maths L2 equivalent (GCSE Grade 4 or over).
• Safeguarding, Paediatric FA qualifications.

Skills required

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

Training to be provided

You will be supported by an assessor throughout your apprenticeship to achieve a Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner qualification.

Our expert Early Years Training Team will guide you through your apprenticeship through a blended programme including face to face and online learning sessions.

Things to consider

This is a physical and active role and you will need to be alert and have the ability to get involved.

Future prospects

Upon successful completion of your level 5 there will be the opportunity to become a permanent member of staff. Ongoing training will be provided to meet legislative requirements and other changes.