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- Tasks: Support high-quality early years education and mentor fellow practitioners.
- Company: Join Little Trees Christ Church, a top-rated nursery by parents.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free lunch, childcare discounts, and professional development.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Develop leadership skills while making a real impact on children's learning.
- Qualifications: Must have 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
What We’re Looking For
- 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
What We Offer
- 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) 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)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in early years education, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Little Trees Christ Church and their approach to early years education. Show us that you understand our values and how you can contribute to creating nurturing environments for children.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to leadership and mentoring. We want to see your passion for early years education and how you plan to support your colleagues and the children.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance of landing the role! Make sure to highlight your Level 3 qualification and any relevant experience in your application. We’re excited to see how you can grow with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Level 5 Lead Practitioner Apprentice (Early Years)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for early years education shine through in your application. Share specific experiences that highlight your love for working with children and how you create nurturing environments.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the key responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for, so don’t hold back!
Highlight Leadership Potential: Since this role is all about developing into a future leader, be sure to mention any past experiences where you've taken on leadership or mentoring roles. Show us how you can inspire and support your colleagues!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker. We can't wait to hear from you!
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 this knowledge in your previous roles will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Potential
Since this role is about developing leadership skills, think of times when you've taken the lead or mentored others. Prepare a couple of stories that highlight your ability to inspire and support your colleagues, as well as how you’ve contributed to creating a nurturing environment for children.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just answer questions; engage in a conversation! Ask thoughtful questions about their approach to early years education and how they support their staff. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if their values align with yours.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through. Share why you love working with children and how you believe play and curiosity are essential for their development. A positive attitude can make a lasting impression!