Apprentice Nursery Practitioner

Inspiro Learning; Hove; On-site; GBP 12,000; Full time

Job summary

An established childcare provider in Hove is seeking an Apprentice Nursery Practitioner to join their dedicated team. This role offers the opportunity to work in a warm, engaging environment while gaining hands-on experience and a Level 3 qualification in early years education. Applicants are encouraged to have a passion for working with young children and the willingness to learn, making this a great start to a fulfilling career in childcare.

Benefits

Fully funded early years qualification

50% childcare discount

Flexible working hours

Career progression opportunities

Inspiring mentors and training

Annual celebrations and recognition events

Qualifications

• No prior experience necessary – just a love for working with children!

Responsibilities

• Assist in creating a warm, fun learning environment for children.
• Support in planning and delivering age-appropriate activities.
• Work alongside experienced practitioners to learn best practices.
• Help with daily routines, including mealtimes and playtime.
• Build positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Ensure high standards of safety and hygiene.

Skills

Passion for working with young children

Good communication skills

Teamwork skills

Enthusiasm and willingness to learn

Education

Commitment to completing Level 2 or Level 3 early years qualification

Job description

Programme duration

15 Months plus 3 months end point assessment

Programme name

Level 3 - Early Years Educator

Established by local teacher Barbara Watson in 1988, Hopscotch has over 30 years of childcare experience. We are an independent, family‑run business with seven locations across East Sussex and our aim is to provide first‑class childcare at affordable prices. Hopscotch values a learning environment which is calm, structured and family‑oriented and with the aim of delivering excellence in childcare.

Hopscotch is proud to be ranked 49th in The Sunday Times Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2025!

Job description

Are you passionate about working with children and eager to start a career in early years education? At Hopscotch Children’s Nurseries, we’re more than just a nursery – we’re a family of passionate educators, dreamers, and adventurers. We’re looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic Apprentice Nursery Practitioner to join our team!

Why Choose Hopscotch for Your Apprenticeship?

At Hopscotch, we believe in nurturing not only the children in our care but also the future educators who will shape young minds. As an apprentice, you’ll learn from experienced mentors, gain hands‑on experience, and work towards a nationally recognised qualification in early years education.

What You’ll Do

• Assist in creating a warm, fun, and engaging learning environment for children.
• Support in planning and delivering age‑appropriate activities that encourage development.
• Work alongside experienced practitioners to learn best practices in childcare.
• Help with daily routines, including mealtimes, playtime, and nap time.
• Build positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Ensure high standards of safety, hygiene, and safeguarding at all times.

What You Bring to the Team

• A passion for working with young children and a desire to build a career in early years education.
• A positive attitude, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• A commitment to completing your Level 2 or Level 3 early years qualification.
• No prior experience necessary – just a love for working with children!

What Makes Us Special

• A fully funded early years qualification
• Hands‑on experience in a supportive environment
• 50% childcare discount
• Flexible working hours
• Career progression opportunities – grow from apprentice to qualified practitioner!
• Inspiring mentors and training from experienced educators
• Annual celebrations and recognition events
• Being part of a close‑knit, welcoming team
• Wellbeing champions to support your personal development
• Adventurous outings and learning beyond the classroom

Ready to Start Your Career in Childcare?

If you’re excited to begin your journey in early years education, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and take the first step towards a rewarding career with Hopscotch Children’s Nurseries.

At Hopscotch, we believe in developing future educators and supporting every member of our team. Join a workplace where learning, creativity, and passion are at the heart of everything we do.

Hopscotch is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Apply now and start your exciting journey with us!

To become an apprentice, you must

• be 16 or over
• not already be in full‑time education

As an apprentice you’ll

• complete a L2 Early Years Practitioner or L3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship standard
• have regular one‑to‑one sessions with a dedicated trainer either remotely or through visits to your workplace
• learn and train for a specific job
• get paid and receive holiday leave
• get hands‑on experience in a real job
• study for at least 20% of your working hours
• complete assessments during and at the end of your apprenticeship
• be on a career path with lots of future potential
• be entitled to a TOTUM membership, find out more here About TOTUM | TOTUM UK

For more information about Inspiro Learning’s apprenticeship delivery and what it entails please watch a short video.