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- Tasks: Support high-quality early years education and mentor fellow practitioners.
- Company: Little Trees Christ Church, a nurturing nursery with a focus on play-based learning.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, childcare discounts, free lunch, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team in a top-rated nursery environment.
- Why this job: Become a future leader in early years education while gaining a Level 5 qualification.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and a passion for child development.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
Little Trees Christ Church are looking for a motivated and passionate Level 5 Lead Practitioner Apprentice to join our team and develop into a future leader within early years education. At Little Trees Nurseries, we believe children learn best through play, curiosity and meaningful experiences. Our practitioners create nurturing environments where children feel safe, valued and inspired to explore the world around them. This apprenticeship provides an excellent opportunity for an experienced practitioner to gain a Level 5 qualification while working in a high-quality nursery environment, developing leadership skills and supporting outstanding practice across the setting.
As a Lead Practitioner Apprentice, you will work alongside the management team to support high‑quality teaching, learning and care. You will gain valuable experience in leadership, mentoring colleagues and helping to drive best practice within the nursery while completing your Level 5 qualification through The Childcare Company. This is a 24-month fixed‑term apprenticeship contract, during which you will receive structured training and workplace support while developing your professional practice.
Key Responsibilities- Support the delivery of high‑quality early years education in line with the EYFS Act
- Act as a role model for best practice within the nursery
- Support and mentor other practitioners within the team
- Assist in planning engaging learning opportunities for children
- Contribute to observations, assessments and learning journeys
- Work closely with the nursery leadership team to support continuous improvement
- Build positive relationships with children, families and colleagues
- Level 3 Early Years qualification (essential)
- A strong passion for early years education and child development
- A desire to develop leadership and mentoring skills
- A positive, proactive and team‑focused approach
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
- Competitive apprenticeship salary
- Full support to complete your Level 5 Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship through The Childcare Company
- Up to 50% discount on childcare fees
- Free daily lunch provided
- Excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression
- Supportive and experienced management team
- Pension scheme
- The opportunity to work in a nursery rated Number 1 on Day Nurseries by parents
This role is ideal for an experienced practitioner who is ready to develop their leadership skills and progress within the early years sector. Little Trees Nurseries is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Level 5 Lead Practitioner Apprentice (Early Years) in Cheltenham employer: Dean Close School
Contact Detail:
Dean Close School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Level 5 Lead Practitioner Apprentice (Early Years) in Cheltenham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Before your interview, take some time to visit Little Trees Christ Church if possible. Familiarising yourself with the environment and the team can give you a real edge and show your genuine interest in their approach to early years education.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! During interviews or networking events, share your experiences and stories that highlight your love for early years education. We want to see that spark in you, so don’t hold back on what drives you to work with children.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss leadership! Since this role is about developing into a future leader, think of examples where you've taken initiative or mentored others. We’re looking for those who can inspire and support their colleagues, so let that shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Little Trees. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to grow your career in early years education!
We think you need these skills to ace Level 5 Lead Practitioner Apprentice (Early Years) in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through in your application. We want to see how much you care about nurturing children's development and creating engaging learning experiences.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We’re looking for someone who aligns with our values, so show us how you fit the bill!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the role.
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 this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dean Close School
✨Know Your Early Years Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Understand how it shapes learning and development in children. Being able to discuss specific examples of how you've applied these principles in your previous roles will show your passion and knowledge.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Potential
Think about times when you've taken the lead or mentored others. Prepare to share these experiences during the interview. Highlighting your ability to inspire and support colleagues will demonstrate that you're ready for the Lead Practitioner role.
✨Engage with Their Values
Little Trees Christ Church values play, curiosity, and meaningful experiences. Be ready to discuss how you can create nurturing environments that align with these values. Share ideas on how you would plan engaging learning opportunities that inspire children to explore.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions that show your interest in their nursery and its practices. Inquire about their approach to continuous improvement or how they support professional development. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.