Nursery Apprentice - Early Years Educator level 3
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Company: Willows Preschool, Colliers Wood
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Location: LONDON, SW19 2DU
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Type: Apprenticeship
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Salary: Between £320.00 and £508.40 per week
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Sector: Early Years
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Ref: VAC-02600
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Application Deadline Date: 30/10/2026
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Start Date: 02/11/2026
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Positions Available: 2
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Working Week: Monday-Friday
Brief Description
Are you ready to begin an exciting career in childcare? Willows Pre-School is looking for a motivated and enthusiastic Early Years Apprentice to support children’s learning and development through play and planned activities, assisting with daily care and routines, and build positive relationships with children, families and our team.
Qualifications Required
Applicants should ideally have:
GCSEs in English and Maths, or equivalent.
Safeguarding CPD – applicants who have already completed relevant safeguarding training are desirable; however, this is not essential, as the successful applicant must be willing to complete the DfE safeguarding training course.
Personal Qualities
Positive and professional presentation – well-presented, approachable and able to maintain a professional appearance and manner.
Reliability and good attendance – dependable, punctual and committed to attending work and apprenticeship training consistently.
A genuine interest in working with young children and developing a career in Early Years.
A willingness and ability to complete the required apprenticeship training and qualification.
Any previous experience working with children would be desirable but is not essential.
Skills Required
The successful applicant should demonstrate:
Knowledge of safeguarding – an understanding of the importance of safeguarding children and maintaining their safety and wellbeing.
Understanding of the EYFS – awareness of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, with a willingness to develop knowledge and apply it in practice.
Proactive approach – willing to get involved, support the team and take initiative without always being asked.
Creativity – able to contribute ideas and support fun, engaging activities that encourage children’s learning and development.
Patience and understanding – able to remain calm, caring and patient when supporting young children.
Eagerness to learn – enthusiastic about developing their knowledge, skills and understanding of Early Years practice.
Ability to take feedback – open to guidance and constructive feedback, using it positively to improve their practice.
Initiative – able to recognise what needs to be done and take appropriate action.
Reliability and good attendance – dependable, punctual and committed to attending work and apprenticeship training consistently.
Teamwork – able to work positively with colleagues and contribute to a supportive nursery environment.
Positive attitude – friendly, enthusiastic and committed to providing high-quality care and experiences for children.
Teamwork – able to work positively with colleagues and contribute to a supportive nursery environment.
Good communication skills – able to communicate appropriately with children, families and colleagues.
Training to be Provided
Your full role and responsibilities will be set out by your employer. They will provide you with all of the on-the-job training you need to up-skill in your role, and your 20% off-the-job learning will be incorporated as part of your working day.
You will be working towards the Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship standard, which includes:
• Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours
• Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid or Level 3 Award in Emergency Paediatric First Aid
• Level 2 Functional Skills in maths and English (if required)
This will be delivered by your dedicated training provider, Realise.
Future Prospects
The successful apprentice will have the opportunity to develop their knowledge, skills and experience within the Early Years sector while working towards their qualification.
On successful completion of the apprenticeship, there may be opportunities to progress into a Qualified Early Years Practitioner role within the nursery, subject to suitable vacancies and performance.
Vacancy Detail
The Early Years Apprentice will join the nursery team and gain practical experience working with children aged 1–5 years. They will support qualified practitioners in providing a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where children are encouraged to learn, explore and develop.
The role includes supporting children’s daily routines, personal care, meals, and activities, as well as helping provide engaging learning experiences in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
• Getting to know all children in the setting, recognising their individual emotional, physical and developmental needs
• Building strong partnerships with parents and carers
• Reporting any incidents or concerns to the Principal and parents where appropriate
• Providing intimate care, including nappy changing when required
• Following all Health & Safety procedures and reporting any concerns promptly
• Adhering to safeguarding policies and reporting concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
• Supporting or taking responsibility for a group of children as directed
• Encouraging positive behaviour, good manners, cooperation and social development
• Assisting in planning and implementing the EYFS curriculum
• Providing high-quality learning experiences through play and structured activities
• Supporting staff deployment to ensure children can fully participate in activities
• Carrying out observations and maintaining accurate records of children’s progress
• Keeping documentation up to date, including registers and accident records
The successful candidate will work alongside experienced practitioners, receiving guidance and support while completing their apprenticeship and working towards their relevant Early Years qualification. They will be expected to demonstrate a willingness to learn, a positive attitude and a genuine interest in supporting children’s development and wellbeing.
Other Information
The role can be physically active and may involve moving between the different age groups, with their daily routines.
The role may involve working different shifts within the nursery’s opening hours, Monday to Friday, 7.30am–6.00pm.