Childcare Apprentice-Level 3

Tops Day Nurseries; Exeter; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A UK-based childcare provider is seeking a part-time Early Years Educator Level 3 apprentice in Exeter. This role involves ensuring children's safety, assisting with daily operations, and fostering community relationships. Candidates will pursue Level 3 qualifications with a potential clear pathway to senior roles. The company offers a supportive environment with strong commitment to career development. Ideal for those looking to progress in a rewarding childcare setting.

Benefits

Annual Bonus Scheme

Childcare Discount

Flexible Working Options

30 Days Paid Holiday

Free Meals

Career Development Opportunities

Qualifications

• Completion of Level 3 may lead to further qualifications.
• Support for completing Functional Skills if GCSE grade C not achieved.

Responsibilities

• Assist in providing a safe environment for children.
• Support the nursery staff with daily checks.
• Ensure a clean and tidy environment and help with meal prep.
• Engage with local schools and community activities.
• Take children on outings and assist with pickups.
• Model positive behavior for children.
• Maintain an appropriate and stimulating environment.

Education

Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English

Level 3 Childcare Apprenticeship

Job description

Tops Day Nurseries provided pay range

Location: Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom

Job Type: Part Time Temporary

Salary: £7.56 per hour

Contracted Hours: 40 hours per week

Benefits

• Annual Bonus Scheme – profit‑based bonuses each May as part of our Employee‑Owned Company model
• Childcare Discount – up to 60% off childcare at our nurseries
• Flexible Working Options – compressed hours can earn up to 48 extra days off annually, or 24 extra days if you work nine days across two weeks, on top of 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 – 28 days annual leave plus two extra days (one birthday or special day, one wellbeing)
• Free Meals – freshly prepared breakfasts daily
• Employee Recognition – Blue Light Card for savings on shopping, dining and more
• Reward Platform (Each Person) – discounts on gyms, cinemas, Cycle2Work, GP on‑demand, supermarket cashback and employee of the month rewards
• Health & Wellbeing Support – assistance with NHS prescriptions, optical care and dental treatment
• Career Development – access to training and advancement opportunities
• Travel & Parking Support – interest‑free loan up to £500 for travel or parking season tickets

About the Role

Our Early Years Educator Level 3 apprenticeship follows the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours outlined in the apprenticeship standard. Modules cover child development, safeguarding, transitions and EPA support sessions. The course includes assessment of practice, professional discussions, Q&A and small assignment tasks, supported by a dedicated trainer and an optional online learning environment.

We are proudly ranked 9th in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK 2024 and offer a clear pathway from Level 2 Childcare Apprenticeships to Nursery Manager or Early Years Teacher.

Responsibilities

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

Qualifications

• Suitable for those working in a childcare setting who wish to progress to a senior or supervisory role; Level 3 completion may lead to further qualifications, including Level 5
• If you have not secured a grade 4 (C) or above in GCSE maths and English, you will be required to complete Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English; trainer support will be provided

Why Tops Day Nurseries?

We are a well‑established provider of early education and childcare services across the South of England, founded in 1990. We are committed to environmental sustainability, social responsibility and educating children who will shape the future. We treat each other with respect, value diversity and foster open communication. As an Employee‑Owned Company, all partners can receive an annual bonus from our profit shares.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status. All candidates must have an enhanced DBS on the Update Service. All offers are conditional upon satisfactory background checks. This role involves regulated activity with children; you should not apply if you are on the Childrens’ Barred List.

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