Early Years Apprentice - 10 Month Programme

Bright Horizons; St. Ives; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 16,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Childcare discount

Parental leave

Annual leave

24/7 GP

Early wage access

Career development

Job summary

Bright Horizons in the United Kingdom offers a fast-track 10-month Early Years Apprenticeship. You will work four days a week in a nursery, with one day at our Learning Hub pursuing the Level 3 Early Years Practitioner qualification.

You will be supported by experienced colleagues and apprenticeship specialists to build practical skills and confidence in early years care. This apprenticeship values passion for working with children, strong communication, and a commitment to learning.

Qualifications

• GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above or Functional Skills Level 2 in both subjects.
• You must have lived in the UK for the last three years; sponsorship not offered.
• Previous experience with children is desirable but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Care for babies and children up to age 5 through play-based learning and everyday interactions.
• Support development, learning and wellbeing with structured routines and activities.
• Work four days per week in the nursery and one day per week at the Learning Hub.
• Progress through the Level 3 Early Years Practitioner qualification with support from mentors.

Skills

Passion for childcare

Communication skills

Enthusiasm to learn

Relationship building

Education

GCSE English & Maths

Functional Skills English

Functional Skills Maths

Job description

As an Early Years Apprentice, you will work as part of a team caring for babies and children up to the age of 5, supporting their learning, development and wellbeing through play based experiences and everyday interactions. This is a fast track ten month apprenticeship programme where you will work four days per week within the nursery, gaining practical experience, and spend one day per week at our Learning Hub undertaking structured learning towards your Level 3 Early Years Practitioner qualification. Throughout the programme, you will receive ongoing support from experienced colleagues and apprenticeship specialists, helping you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence required to become a qualified Early Years professional.

• A genuine passion for working with children and starting a rewarding career in Early Years.
• Commitment to completing the nine month apprenticeship programme
• GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above, or Functional Skills Level 2 in both subjects
• You must have lived in the UK for the last three years. Please note, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role
• Previous experience working with children is desirable but not essential - Nursery Assistant, Teaching Assistant, Nanny, Childminder, Care Assistant or similar
• We welcome candidates from a variety of backgrounds who can demonstrate a strong work ethic and enthusiasm for learning.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families and colleagues.
• Strong communication skills and a willingness to learn, develop and apply new knowledge in practice.

Why Choose This Apprenticeship?

This apprenticeship is designed for individuals who are ready to commit to developing a professional career in Early Years. Through a combination of classroom learning, workplace experience and dedicated support, you will develop the skills and knowledge required to work as a qualified Early Years Practitioner while making a positive difference to young children's lives every day.

Are you looking to start or develop your career in Early Years with an organisation whose culture is driven by our HEART principles - Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork? At Bright Horizons, we're offering an exciting opportunity to join our fast-track Level 3 Early Years Apprenticeship Programme. This ten‑month programme combines structured learning with hands on experience in one of our nurseries, giving you the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to become a qualified Early Years Practitioner. You'll be supported throughout your journey by experienced nursery colleagues, a dedicated apprenticeship provider and pastoral support to help you succeed both professionally and personally.

Our Benefits

• Childcare discount of 40% for first child
• Enhanced parental leave
• 31 days annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays and paid Christmas closure, with the option to purchase additional leave
• Financial and wellbeing benefits including 24/7 virtual GP appointments, early access to wages and more
• Professional development opportunities and long-term career progression within Bright Horizon