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- Tasks: Engage in hands-on learning about child development and nursery routines while working outdoors.
- Company: Join Thorne Manor, a vibrant OFSTED-registered nursery on a working farm in Devon/Cornwall.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive wages, bonuses, and dedicated training for your professional growth.
- Why this job: Experience a supportive team culture focused on child wellbeing and outdoor learning adventures.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths (grade 4 or above) are required; creativity and customer care skills are a plus.
- Other info: Interviews prioritise applicants with disabilities under the Disability Confident scheme.
A passionate and supportive team, focused on child development and outdoor learning, is situated amidst large outdoor spaces, woodlands, and three separate buildings for each age group. The setting is on a working farm with regular walks along the farm lane and access to our own woodlands, where Forest School sessions are conducted.
Wage: £11,778 to £19,047.60, depending on your age. National Minimum Wage.
Additional benefits: Yearly incentive bonuses, Christmas bonuses, and performance bonuses, which may lead to wage increases.
Training course: Early years educator (Level 3)
Hours: 30 hours on a rota basis, including one day at college. Starting from Monday, 1 September 2025.
Duration: 1 year 6 months
Work: The apprenticeship mainly involves on-the-job learning through hands-on experience.
What you’ll do at work:
- During a 3-month probationary period, you will settle in, learn routines, and understand Thorne Manor's environment. During this time, you won’t be counted in child-to-staff ratios to ease your transition.
- You will learn nursery routines, child development practices, duties such as kitchen responsibilities, and care routines.
- Post-probation, you will rotate through each age group each term to understand their unique needs and the roles of staff members.
- Subsequently, discussions about permanent room placement, key children, and further skills like report writing and SEN will occur.
Thorne Manor fully supports your apprenticeship journey, emphasizing staff mental health and wellbeing, with a team of 30 staff members with diverse experience and qualifications.
Where you’ll work: Thorne Farm, Holsworthy, EX22 7JD
Training: The apprenticeship includes dedicated time for specialist training to develop professional skills and knowledge.
College or training organisation: PETROC
Your training course: Early years educator (Level 3), equivalent to A levels
Course contents:
- Recognising and acting upon signs of danger or abuse, in line with safeguarding policies.
- Applying legislation and policies to ensure health, safety, and wellbeing of children.
- Implementing risk assessment and management principles.
- Teaching children risk management and safety skills.
- Using various communication methods, including technology, to meet children's needs.
- Developing effective professional relationships with colleagues and others involved in child care.
- Undertaking the role and responsibilities of a key person.
- Applying attachment theories to build effective relationships.
- Providing respectful personal care for children from birth to five years.
- Advocating for children’s needs, including those requiring SEND or EAL support.
- Promoting social interactions and relationships among children.
- Supporting children’s identity, culture, and emotional understanding.
- Assessing and planning for holistic, child-centred learning based on observations.
- Creating inclusive, dynamic indoor and outdoor environments.
- Supporting children through change and transition strategies.
- Reflecting on practice for personal and professional development.
Your training plan: Level 3 Apprenticeship Diploma in Early Years at Petroc, Barnstaple, one day a week. First Aid, Manual Handling, Food Hygiene, and Safeguarding training. Additional relevant training tailored to roles and age groups.
Requirements:
- GCSEs in English and Maths (grade 4 or above). Please inform us of other relevant qualifications or experience, which may influence the apprenticeship structure.
Skills:
- Customer care skills
- Creativity
- Initiative
- Non-judgemental attitude
About this company: Thorne Manor Day Nursery and Preschool is an OFSTED-registered childcare provider located on a working farm on the Devon/Cornwall border, with 136 enrolled children across three age-specific buildings and 30 staff members.
Interviews will prioritize applicants with disabilities or long-term health conditions, including non-visible disabilities, under the Disability Confident scheme, provided essential requirements are met.
After this apprenticeship:
- Early Years Practitioner
- Room Coordinator
- SENCO Roles
- School Transition Roles
- Deputy Manager
- Speech and Language Mentor
Contact for this apprenticeship: PETROC thornemanor@yahoo.co.uk
Reference code: VAC1000315422
Application deadline: Monday, 30 June 2025
You will need a GOV.UK One Login to apply, which can be created during the application process.
Early Years Apprenticeship employer: Petroc
Contact Detail:
Petroc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Apprenticeship
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the principles of child development and outdoor learning. Since this apprenticeship focuses on these areas, showing your understanding and enthusiasm for them during any discussions will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the local community or online forums related to early years education. Networking with professionals in the field can provide insights and potentially valuable connections that may help you during the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experiences with children, whether through volunteering, babysitting, or other relevant activities. Highlighting your hands-on experience will demonstrate your commitment and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Thorne Manor and its unique environment, including the farm setting and Forest School sessions. Being knowledgeable about the specific setting will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the team during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Apprenticeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to understand the specifics of the Early Years Apprenticeship. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and skills required, such as child development practices and kitchen responsibilities.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the apprenticeship. Include any previous work with children, customer care skills, or relevant qualifications like GCSEs in English and Maths.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for child development and outdoor learning. Mention why you are interested in this specific apprenticeship at Thorne Manor and how you can contribute to their supportive team.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: In your application, clearly state your GCSE results and any other relevant qualifications or experiences. This will help demonstrate your suitability for the apprenticeship and show that you meet the essential requirements.
How to prepare for a job interview at Petroc
✨Show Your Passion for Child Development
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and your understanding of child development principles. Share any relevant experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to nurturing young minds.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Outdoor Learning
Since the role involves outdoor learning, it’s a good idea to research and discuss the benefits of outdoor education during your interview. Mention any personal experiences you have with outdoor activities or how you would incorporate nature into learning.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Think about scenarios involving child care, safety, and communication, and prepare thoughtful responses that highlight your initiative and creativity.
✨Understand the Importance of Teamwork
Thorne Manor values a supportive team environment, so be ready to discuss your ability to work collaboratively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before and how you can contribute positively to their team dynamic.
