Childcare Apprentice-Level 2

Tops Day Nurseries; Plympton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading early education provider in Plympton is seeking a Childcare Apprentice to assist in providing a safe environment for children. This role offers hands-on experience towards a Level 2 qualification in Early Years Education. The ideal candidate will be passionate and enthusiastic about beginning their career in childcare. Benefits include annual bonuses, childcare discounts, flexible working options, and 30 days paid holiday.

Benefits

Annual Bonus Scheme

Childcare Discount

Flexible Working Options

30 Days Paid Holiday

Free Meals

Career Development

Qualifications

• No previous experience or qualifications required – must be aged 17 or over.
• This is a 100% work-based course – no college attendance needed.
• Hands-on experience with support from an assessor.

Responsibilities

• Assist in providing a safe environment for children.
• Support in ensuring the environment is stimulating and appropriate.
• Assisting with daily, weekly and monthly checks around the nursery.

Skills

Passion for working with young children

Effective communication

Good work ethic

Education

Level 2 qualification in Early Years Education

Job description

Tops Stonehouse Nursery is an 80 place Day Nursery & Pre‑School situated in Stonehouse, Plymouth. The nursery run several extra‑curricular activities including Tops Forest School, Cooking school, Boogie Mites, Yoga, Tooth brushing, Football fun and much more! What does the role involve?

Responsibilities

• Assist in providing a safe environment for children
• Assisting with daily, weekly and monthly checks around the nursery
• Assist in ensuring the unit is clean and tidy and assist in meal preparation
• Assist colleagues with developing and maintaining good relationships with local schools, charities and involvement with the community (e.g. parades, visiting care homes)
• Taking children on trips out and assist on picking up from school
• Able to support children's behaviour and act as a role model
• Support in ensuring the environment is stimulating and appropriate, including layout, display of resources, displays and equal opportunities

Are you passionate about working with young children and eager to begin a rewarding childcare career? Join us as a Childcare Apprentice, gaining hands‑on experience while working towards a Level 2 qualification in early years education.

Qualifications

• Gain hands‑on experience while working towards an industry‑recognised Level 2 qualification in Early Years Education.
• Level 2 covers knowledge of children from birth to 7 years, focusing on ages 0‑5, and meets the Department for Education's Level 2 criteria.
• Assessment includes on‑site practical sessions and written tasks, with continuous support from an assessor via an online platform.
• Upon successful completion you will qualify as a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner.
• No previous experience or qualifications required – you must be aged 17 or over.
• This is a 100 % work‑based course – no college attendance is needed.

Candidate Profile

• We are looking for someone who is passionate and enthusiastic about beginning their career in child care.
• You will need to take this role seriously, and be able to demonstrate a good work ethic and effective communication with the people around you, treating both other staff and children with respect and care at all times.

About Us

We are a leading early education and childcare provider in South England, established in 1990. We promote environmental sustainability and social responsibility by educating today's children to influence future generations. We value respect, open communication and teamwork, fostering a positive, purpose‑driven work environment. As an Employee‑Owned Company, our colleagues are co‑owners, benefiting from the company's growth through annual profit‑sharing bonuses.

Exciting? We think so! Your journey starts here, so take the first step to become part of Tops Team by clicking apply!

Benefits

• Annual Bonus Scheme – share in our success with annual profit‑based bonuses each May, as part of our Employee‑Owned Company model.
• Childcare Discount – up to 60 % off childcare at our nurseries to help you balance work and family life.
• Flexible Working Options – compressed hours can earn you up to 48 extra days off annually, or 24 extra days if you work nine days across two weeks – on top of your regular holiday.
• Certified World's Happiest Workplace 2025 – recognised for our focus on employee well‑being, positive culture and career growth.
• 30 Days Paid Holiday – includes 28 days annual leave plus 2 extra days – one for your birthday (or a special day of your choice) and one for your wellbeing.
• Free Meals – enjoy free, freshly prepared breakfasts daily to keep you energised.
• Employee Recognition – Blue Light Card access for savings on shopping, dining and more; rewards platform with discounts on gyms, cinemas, Cycle2Work, GP on‑demand, supermarket cashback and employee‑of‑the‑month rewards.
• Health & Well‑being Support – help with NHS prescriptions, optical care, and dental treatment.
• Career Development – access to training and advancement opportunities to grow your career.