At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with children, plan activities, and support their development in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Highbury Lodge Day Nursery, a supportive place to kickstart your childcare career.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, enjoy paid leave, discounts, and free meals.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, on-the-job training, and opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable qualifications.
- Qualifications: Passion for childcare and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 16640 - 26500 £ per year.
Location: Highbury Lodge Day Nursery, Hitchin, SG4 9RW
Contract & Schedule: Full‑time, 37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year, Varied shifts Monday‑Friday, 07:30‑18:30
Start window: 18 August 2026 – 18 September 2026
Salary: £8.00 per hour at start, £10.41 per hour after 6 months, £12.74 per hour after 12 months (age 21+)
Benefits:
- 23 days paid leave per annum (pro‑rata), rising to 28 days with length of service
- Paid bank holidays
- 75% childcare discount (or 40% grandparent discount) at any Childbase nursery
- Long‑service rewards, qualification bonuses & retail discounts
- Free meals, mental health & occupational health support
- Flu jabs, eye care vouchers & free will‑writing service
- Team inset days and online training of your apprenticeship course
About you – Responsibilities & Qualifications:
- You are passionate about building a career with children and care for babies and young children under five.
- You thrive on practical tasks and are keen to plan and implement high‑quality, engaging activities linked to the early years curriculum, observing, assessing and recording children's progress.
- You are nurturing and empathetic, prioritising safety, ensuring every child feels safe, valued and happy, and following policies and procedures.
- You manage your time effectively, making good use of off‑the‑job learning time and meeting coursework deadlines.
- You work collaboratively, building strong, positive relationships with children, parents and colleagues, and possess strong verbal and written communication skills.
Apprenticeship Offer:
- On‑site practical experience with a trainer/assessor guiding learning and regular group training sessions every 6‑8 weeks at the academy.
- Progress to a Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years practitioner/educator qualification.
- English and maths Functional Skills qualifications (where required).
- Paediatric first aid qualification (valid for three years).
Eligibility Criteria:
- Right to work in the UK and a National Insurance number.
- Photographic ID (valid passport or driving licence).
- Computer to complete online assessment and coursework.
- UK residence for at least three years.
- Commuteworthy to the nursery and to the academy training sessions (travel costs covered).
- 21+ and meeting apprenticeship rules (16+ for entry).
Inclusive Employer: We welcome applicants of all ages (16+) and backgrounds and will consider reasonable adjustments. Safer recruitment checks apply, which include an Enhanced DBS check. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.
Childcare Apprenticeship in Hitchin employer: Childbase Partnership Limited
At Highbury Lodge Day Nursery, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to nurturing the next generation of childcare professionals. Our supportive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering comprehensive training and development opportunities alongside competitive benefits such as generous leave, childcare discounts, and wellness support. Located in Hitchin, our nursery provides a vibrant environment where you can thrive while making a meaningful impact on children's lives.
Contact Details:
Childbase Partnership Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Childcare Apprenticeship in Hitchin
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Before your interview, take a stroll around Highbury Lodge Day Nursery if you can. Familiarising yourself with the environment will help you feel more confident and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do a mock interview. This will help you articulate your passion for working with children and demonstrate your understanding of the early years curriculum.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! During the interview, let your nurturing side shine through. Share personal experiences that highlight your empathy and ability to connect with children, parents, and colleagues.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining our team at StudySmarter and starting your childcare journey.
We think you need these skills to ace Childcare Apprenticeship in Hitchin
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about their development and well-being, so share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight your skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities mentioned, like planning engaging activities or building relationships with children and parents.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and make sure your passion and qualifications come across without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Childbase Partnership Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the early years curriculum and the responsibilities of a childcare apprentice. Familiarise yourself with the nursery's values and how they prioritise child safety and development. This will show your passion for the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share any relevant experiences, whether it's babysitting, volunteering, or coursework. Highlight specific activities you've planned or implemented that engage young children, as this demonstrates your practical skills and creativity.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer about the nursery's approach to childcare and professional development opportunities. This not only shows your interest in the position but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing a mock interview with a friend or family member. Practising common interview questions can help you articulate your thoughts clearly and reduce nerves. Focus on how you would handle specific scenarios related to childcare, as this will prepare you for situational questions during the actual interview.
