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- Tasks: Train as a Level 2 Early Years Apprentice, supporting children in a school environment.
- Company: Join Dilkes Academy, a vibrant school focused on nurturing young minds.
- Benefits: Earn £8.00 per hour, enjoy 28 days annual leave, and gain valuable experience.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while kickstarting your career in education.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and maths preferred; passion for working with children is key.
- Other info: Opportunity to progress to Teaching Assistant roles or even a teaching degree.
The predicted salary is between 1000 - 1200 £ per month.
This is a fantastic opportunity for applicants to train as a Level 2 Early Years Apprentice. This is an advanced pathway for those who already work in school or who are interested in working with children. The course is one academic year (12 months) and at the end of it you will have gained an Early Years Apprenticeship.
This could lead to the following roles:
- Teaching Assistant
- Qualified Teacher Status
Who is suitable for an apprenticeship? Employers will be particularly interested in applicants who have a keen interest in providing excellent support within a school environment and working as part of a team. You should be able to demonstrate excellent literacy, numeracy and ICT skills. Potential candidates are expected to have achieved GCSE A-C or 9-4 in English and maths. Science is preferred if applicants are considering a teaching route later. We accept applicants who are currently studying for their GCSEs. The college expectation is that applicants do not need a grade 4 or above but the schools expect this.
Will I get paid as an apprentice? Yes, your employer will pay you at least £8.00 (April 2026) per hour in your first year for at least 30 hours per week (college day included) for 52 weeks of the year. They must also allow you to take at least 28 days per year annual leave, including bank holidays, and pay you for it.
How is the Apprenticeship Assessed? Your assessor will visit you within the workplace to assess your progress and you will attend training for 1 day per week. Weekly training will take place at Dilkes Academy, South Ockendon. You will develop your skills and knowledge whilst on and off the job and will receive regular supervision and mentoring from your employer.
What could this Apprenticeship lead to? This apprenticeship will provide you with the knowledge, understanding and professional skills you can use in your current/future career within education. On completion you can move on in your vocational field into Teaching Assistant roles or even onto a Level 3 TA apprenticeship. This could then lead to a teaching degree and QTS.
What are the costs? There are no costs to the apprentice to complete this apprenticeship programme; costs will be incurred if apprentices go on to complete a foundation degree, BA Hons and eventually QTS if they choose to train to become a qualified teacher. The apprentice therefore may need to take out a small student loan to cover these expenses. All apprentices must have employment to complete an apprenticeship.
Information about the School: Our pupils are aged 3 – 11, ranging from Nursery to Year 6, and mainly live in the area surrounding the school. At Dilkes we want our children to be happy, confident and to share a passion for learning. We help them to achieve highly and make outstanding progress. We value every child and ensure that we foster the individuality of their interests and experiences. Our bespoke curriculum is carefully planned to enable us to teach all the National Curriculum subjects in a creative and inspiring way. We engage children in a range of activities that enable them to develop their knowledge and skills, and equip them for life beyond school. We are very proud of the achievements of our pupils, and this pride is echoed by the pupils themselves. We strive to continue to build on the outstanding provision that Dilkes Academy offers.
Early Years Apprentice in Colchester employer: Shorefields
Contact Detail:
Shorefields Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Apprentice in Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Dilkes Academy and understand their values and teaching approach. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for potential interview questions by role-playing with a friend or family member. Focus on how your skills and experiences align with the Early Years Apprentice role, especially your passion for working with children.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former apprentices at Dilkes Academy through social media or local events. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about what the interviewers are looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our platform. It’s a straightforward process, and it shows that you’re proactive and serious about landing this apprenticeship.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Apprentice in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Education: When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for working with children. Share any experiences you have that highlight your interest in education and supporting young learners.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Early Years Apprentice role. Mention your literacy, numeracy, and ICT skills, and how they relate to the job description.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, so we can easily understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people and shows you’re serious about joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorefields
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of an Early Years Apprentice. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and skills required, especially around supporting children in a school environment. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Employers want to see that you have a keen interest in working with children. Be prepared to share any relevant experiences, whether it's volunteering, babysitting, or even helping out in a school. Highlight your enthusiasm for fostering a positive learning environment.
✨Brush Up on Your Literacy and Numeracy Skills
Since the role requires good literacy and numeracy skills, it’s a great idea to review basic concepts before your interview. You might be asked about how you would support children in these areas, so being able to demonstrate your knowledge will set you apart.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! This shows your interest in the role and the school. You could ask about the training process, what a typical day looks like, or how they support apprentices in their development. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewer.
