At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young children's learning and development in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Shooting Stars Nurseries, a welcoming and inclusive childcare provider.
- Benefits: Free snacks, supportive mentors, and a friendly team atmosphere.
- Other info: Join our Internal Apprenticeship Academy for growth and connection with fellow apprentices.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while kickstarting your early years career.
- Qualifications: Passion for childcare; previous experience is a bonus but not required.
The predicted salary is between 8 - 8 £ per hour.
Ready to make a difference in the lives of young children and begin a truly rewarding early years career? If you are enthusiastic, caring and excited to learn, our 2026 Apprenticeship Programme could be the perfect opportunity for you.
What We’re Looking For
- Previous childcare or nursery experience is welcome, but absolutely not essential.
- Genuine passion for early years education and a desire to help provide safe, engaging, high-quality childcare.
- Patience, empathy and kindness.
- An eagerness & commitment to learn and develop new skills.
- Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
- Good organisation and reliability.
- Passion & motivation to build a long-term early years career.
If you want to help children feel safe, supported and inspired to learn, we want to meet you.
We offer two pathways:
- Level 2 – Early Years Practitioner Ideal for those new to childcare and starting out in their early years journey.
- Level 3 – Early Years Educator Suitable for applicants with some childcare experience or understanding of the EYFS.
Location: Shooting Stars Nursery, 25 Mount Road, Hinckley, LE10 1AD
Hours: 30 hours per week, in shifts 7:30am–6:00pm, Monday to Friday all year round
Start Date: 1st September 2026
Salary: £8.00 per hour
Qualifications: GCSE English and Maths (grade 4 or above) or equivalent is desirable, but not essential.
Closing Date for Applications: 1pm, Friday 13th March 2026
How to Apply
Click the Apply Now button. Our careers team will contact you via email (please check your junk/spam folder) to complete an Expression of Interest Form and guide you through the next steps.
To progress an application you must be available to attend in person on the following dates:
- Wednesday 18th March 2026 – Meet & Greet, 6:30pm onwards A friendly introduction to our nursery team, tour of the nursery and opportunity to learn more about the role.
- Saturday 11th April 2026 – Assessment Day An interactive session designed to help us understand your strengths, personality and suitability for the programme.
If successful, you will be invited back for a practical trial during nursery operational hours. Final decisions will be communicated as soon as possible, and no later than Monday 1st June 2026.
About our Apprentice Role
As part of our nursery team, you will be supported by experienced Early Years professionals who will guide you in:
- Providing high-quality care and play experiences.
- Supporting children’s learning and development.
- Keeping children safe and nurtured.
- Contributing to daily routines such as mealtimes, play, activities and rest.
You will complete theoretical and practical training to achieve your Level 2 or Level 3 qualification, delivered in partnership with Realise, our training provider.
Why Choose Shooting Stars Nurseries?
We provide a welcoming, inclusive environment where you can grow and feel valued. You’ll benefit from:
- A bespoke welcome workshop & induction programme.
- Our Internal Apprenticeship Academy, connecting you with apprentices across all 7 Shooting Stars settings.
- A friendly team and supportive mentors.
- Uniform and enhanced DBS provided.
- A dedicated team break room with free snacks and drinks.
- Staff celebrations, awards and recognition events.
Safeguarding Commitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children in our care. All posts involve working with children and are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Successful applicants will undergo pre-employment checks, including enhanced DBS disclosure, suitability checks & satisfactory references.
Early Years Apprentice (Level 2 or 3) New at Shooting Stars Nurseries Hinckley employer: Shooting Stars
Shooting Stars Nurseries in Stourbridge is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing environment where you can lead a passionate team dedicated to the care and development of our youngest learners. With a strong focus on professional growth, we provide opportunities for progression within our nursery, ensuring that your career path is as rewarding as the work you do. Join us in a vibrant community that values collaboration, creativity, and the joy of inspiring children aged 0-2.
