Flying Start Apprentice Childcare Worker - Temporary / Fixed Term March 2028

Vale of Glamorgan Council; Barry; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council in Barry is seeking a Childcare Apprentice to join its Flying Start Programme, supporting families with children aged 0–3. The role involves assisting in creating a nurturing environment, planning age-appropriate activities, and engaging with parents. Candidates should have an interest in child development and a friendly demeanor. The position offers structured training with the potential for nationally recognized qualifications. Pay ranges from £7.55 to £12.21 per hour based on age, ensuring stability as part of a funded initiative.

Benefits

Structured training and support

Professional development opportunities

Job security until at least March 2028

Supportive team environment

Positive impact on community

Qualifications

• Willingness to work toward QCF level 2 and level 3 in Children’s Care, Learning Play and Development.
• Basic understanding of child development.
• Experience or interest in working with babies/young children and their families.

Responsibilities

• Assist qualified practitioners in planning and delivering activities for children.
• Support daily routines such as snack times and outdoor play.
• Observe and record children's progress to contribute to development plans.
• Engage positively with parents to support their child’s learning.
• Maintain a clean and welcoming setting in line with health standards.
• Participate in team meetings and training to develop skills.

Skills

Experience/interest in working with young children

Basic knowledge of child development

Friendly and approachable manner

Ability to communicate with professionals and parents

Motivation and enthusiasm for the post

Education

Good general education

Job description

About us

Are you passionate about helping young children thrive? As a Childcare Apprentice with the Vale of Glamorgan’s Flying Start Programme, you’ll gain hands‑on experience, work towards nationally recognised qualifications, and receive structured training and support from experienced mentors. This is your chance to build a rewarding career in childcare while making a real impact on families and communities. Enjoy professional development opportunities, a friendly team environment, and the stability of a Welsh Government‑funded initiative running until March 2028.

The Vale of Glamorgan Council is inviting applications to join its Flying Start Programme—a Welsh Government initiative supporting families with children aged 0–3 years in targeted areas. Our aim is to give every child the best possible start in life through high‑quality early years services.

Flying Start focuses on promoting language, cognitive, social and emotional development, physical skills, and early identification of additional needs. We achieve this through Health Visiting and support, Speech, Language and Communication, Parenting programmes, and funded part‑time childcare.

Ambitious – Forward thinking, embracing new ways of working and investing in our future.
Open – Open to different ideas and being accountable for the decisions we take.
Together – Working together as a team that engages with our customers and partners, respects diversity and is committed to quality services.
Proud – Proud of the Vale of Glamorgan; proud to serve our communities and to be part of the Vale of Glamorgan Council.

Benefits of Joining the Vale of Glamorgan’s Flying Start Team

• Structured Training and Support: Work towards QCF Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications with guidance from experienced mentors.
• Professional Development: Access to ongoing training and reflective practice sessions to help you grow in your career.
• Positive Impact: Be part of a Welsh Government initiative that makes a real difference to families and children in the community.
• Team Environment: Join a supportive, friendly team committed to high‑quality early years provision.
• Job Security: The Flying Start programme is funded until March 2028, offering stability during your apprenticeship.

Pay Details

Apprentice – £7.55 per hour.

Age 18–20: £10 per hour.

Age 21+: £12.21 per hour.

Working Pattern

35 hours per week, term time only.

Main Place of Work: Barry.

Temporary Reason: Flying Start is a Welsh Government funded project, currently until 31.3.2028.

Description

You will play an active role in creating a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment for children aged 2–3 years. Your responsibilities will include:

• Assisting qualified practitioners in planning and delivering age‑appropriate activities that promote language, social, emotional, and physical development.
• Supporting daily routines such as snack times, outdoor play, and personal care, ensuring children’s well‑being and safety at all times.
• Observing and recording children’s progress to contribute to individual development plans.
• Engaging positively with parents and carers, providing updates and supporting family involvement in their child’s learning journey.
• Maintaining a clean, organised, and welcoming setting in line with health and safety standards.
• Participating in team meetings, training sessions, and reflective practice to develop your skills and knowledge.

About you

You will need:

• Experience/interest in working with babies/young children and their families.
• Basic knowledge of child development.
• A good general education.
• Willingness to work toward QCF level 2 and level 3 in Children’s Care, Learning Play and Development, within an agreed timescale.
• Motivation and enthusiasm for the post and an understanding of the tasks required.
• Friendly and approachable manner and be able to communicate with a range of professionals and parents.
• Ability to drive/travel throughout the Vale or between locations as appropriate.

Additional information

DBS Check Required: Enhanced DBS with Adult/Child barred list.

For Further Information, contact: Claire Urch – Early Years and Childcare Manager – [e-mail] or Emma Selby – Childcare Manager – [e-mail] or telephone [phone].

Please see attached job description / person specification for further information.