At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children's learning and development across all age groups in a vibrant nursery environment.
- Company: Join Little Dukes, a nurturing community dedicated to early childhood education.
- Benefits: Full training, health support, pension scheme, free lunches, and team-building events.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic workplace with opportunities for career progression and ongoing professional development.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's lives while gaining valuable qualifications and experience.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths or willingness to complete Functional Skills exams.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 29000 £ per year.
Posting date: 09 June 2026
Closing date: 09 July 2026
Location: TW1 2HN
Company: Little Dukes
Job type: Permanent
Summary
Ideally applicants will hold GCSEs grade A-C or 4-9 in English and Maths or functional skills equivalent; if not, applicants will be required to take Functional skills exams.
Responsibilities
The position involves working across all age groups in the nursery, working 40 hours per week, including off-the-job training spent in the nursery's training suite. Hours are variable on a shift basis, working between 8 am-6 pm Monday to Friday. Apprentices are expected to work up to 8 hours paid overtime per week when required.
Riverside Nursery Schools works in partnership with Best Practice Network to offer all Trainee Educators the opportunity to work towards their Level 3 Early Years Educator Qualification. Our package offers:
- Full training and support with an on-site tutor and assessor.
- Employee assistance programme (health, mental and emotional well-being support).
- Employer Contribution Pension scheme.
- Access to ongoing training and professional development.
- Support & mentoring from our existing knowledgeable educators.
- Social & team-building events.
- Access to staff relaxation areas with unlimited free hot and cold drinks and tasty treats.
- A free hot lunch.
- Career progression for those who wish to further their professional development.
About Little Dukes
Little Dukes is the early years arm of our family of schools and educators, with independent nurseries in London, Richmond upon Thames, Brighton & Hove and Worthing. We give children the foundations for an extraordinary life, through education.
Application Requirements
You will be required to complete our application form and follow our safer recruitment procedures, which includes carrying out Enhanced DBS checks. We welcome enthusiastic applicants eager to make a positive difference in children's lives.
Nursery Apprentice employer: Little Dukes
Little Dukes is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its staff, offering comprehensive training and support for Nursery Apprentices. With a strong focus on professional development, employees benefit from access to ongoing training, mentoring from experienced educators, and a supportive work culture that includes social events and relaxation areas. Located in the vibrant Richmond upon Thames, Little Dukes provides a nurturing environment where passionate individuals can thrive while making a meaningful impact on children's lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Apprentice
✨Get Hands-On at Local Gardens
Dive into your local horticulture scene! Volunteer at community gardens or local parks to gain practical experience and meet professionals in the field. This not only builds your skills but also expands your network, making you more visible to potential employers like Little Dukes.
✨Join Horticulture Societies
Research and join horticulture societies and clubs in your area. These groups often host workshops, events, and networking opportunities that can connect you directly with companies looking for apprentices, like Little Dukes. Plus, you'll get to learn from seasoned pros in a relaxed environment.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb Online
Create a garden blog or an Instagram account to share your horticulture journey. Post about plants you’re working with, gardening tips, or even your experiences at local events. This will not only showcase your passion but also draw attention from potential employers, including Little Dukes.
✨Apply Early and Keep It Local
Apprenticeships in horticulture can fill up fast, especially in peak seasons. Make sure to check for openings on our website regularly, and consider walking into garden centres or nurseries to inquire about opportunities directly. A friendly chat can sometimes go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, we like to see your passion for plants and the outdoors. Whether it’s a garden project or a few houseplants you’ve nurtured, include any practical experience and why it inspires you in your application. It’s all about demonstrating your love for the industry!
Highlight Your Learning Potential:Since this is an apprenticeship, we want to know how eager you are to learn and grow. In your cover letter, make sure to discuss what you hope to gain from this role and how it fits into your career goals in horticulture. Show us your enthusiasm for lifelong learning!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any certificates related to gardening, horticulture, or environmental studies, throw them into your application mix! These little nuggets help us see that you’ve got a solid foundation and commitment to the field, making you a more appealing candidate.
Keep It Personal and Passionate:When applying, remember to speak from the heart. Share personal stories or experiences related to horticulture that shaped your interest. We love seeing authentic passion, so let it shine through in your writing. And hey, don’t forget to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Little Dukes
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Make sure to brush up on your plant knowledge! During the interview, we might get into some technical questions about plant care, soil types, or pest management. Have some examples ready from your gardening experience or coursework that show how you’ve dealt with various horticultural challenges.
✨Bring Your Own Garden Portfolio
Since this is an apprenticeship, showcasing your passion can really set you apart. Create a small portfolio with pictures of your gardening projects, plants you've nurtured, or any relevant coursework. This hands-on evidence of your enthusiasm will definitely impress the folks at Little Dukes.
✨Know Your Tools and Techniques
Familiarise yourself with the tools and techniques used in horticulture. Whether it's knowing how to use a spade correctly or understanding the basics of propagation, don’t be afraid to mention any specific tools you've used in the past. This will show that you're not just book-smart but also hands-on ready for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, your eagerness to learn is just as important as your current knowledge. We need to convey your motivation during the interview, so reflect on what excites you about horticulture and how you're keen to grow (pun intended!) in this role at Little Dukes. Share any instances where you took the initiative to learn, whether through volunteering or extra courses.
