At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children's learning and development in a nurturing nursery environment.
- Company: Join Kingsley Explorers Nursery, a friendly and supportive childcare community.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a recognised qualification and hands-on experience.
- Other info: No prior experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while building a rewarding career.
- Qualifications: A genuine interest in working with children and a positive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 8 - 8 £ per hour.
Start your career in childcare and make a difference every day. Kingsley Explorers Nursery is looking for a caring, enthusiastic and motivated individual to join us as an Early Years Apprentice. This is an exciting opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining a recognised Early Years qualification and valuable hands‑on experience in a high-quality nursery environment. If you are passionate about working with children and want to build a rewarding career in Early Years education, we would love to hear from you.
Why Join Kingsley Explorers?
- Earn while you learn through a recognised Early Years apprenticeship programme.
- Workplace-based training - the majority of your learning will take place within the nursery, allowing you to develop practical skills in a real Early Years setting. Supported by your training provider, there is no requirement for regular college attendance.
- Support and mentoring from experienced Early Years professionals.
- A welcoming, friendly and nurturing working environment.
- The opportunity to progress into a long-term career in childcare and education.
- A chance to be part of a brand‑new and exciting nursery community.
About the Role
As an Early Years Apprentice, you will support the delivery of high-quality care and education for children aged 0-5 whilst working towards a recognised Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years qualification. You will learn how to support children’s learning, development and wellbeing in line with the EYFS framework. Applicants should clearly indicate on their application which level they are more suited to and wish to work towards.
You will:
- Support engaging play‑based learning activities.
- Assist with observing and recording children’s development.
- Help create a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment.
- Work alongside qualified practitioners to develop your skills and experience.
- Build positive relationships with children, parents and colleagues.
- Learn about safeguarding, health and safety, and best practice in Early Years education.
Workplace-Based Learning
Unlike traditional college-based courses, the majority of your apprenticeship training will be delivered within the nursery. You will learn through practical experience, supported by qualified colleagues and your training provider. Assessments, reviews and learning activities will take place primarily in the workplace, enabling you to develop valuable skills whilst working directly with children.
Pay and Apprenticeship Salary
We pay in line with the National Minimum Wage rates applicable to apprentices and their age. Current rates are:
- £8.00 per hour for apprentices under age 19, and those aged 19+ in the first year of their apprenticeship.
- £10.85 per hour for apprentices aged 19+ who have completed the first year of their apprenticeship.
- £12.71 per hour for apprentices aged 21 and over.
As your apprenticeship progresses, your pay will increase in line with the relevant statutory rates for your age and apprenticeship status.
Who We’re Looking For
You don’t need previous nursery experience, but you will need:
- A genuine interest in working with young children.
- A caring, patient and nurturing approach.
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
- Reliability, professionalism and enthusiasm.
- GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent), or a willingness to work towards them if required.
Experience of working with children, whether through volunteering, family responsibilities or previous employment, would be an advantage but is not essential.
Closing Date: 20th August at 12pm
Interview Date: Week commencing 24th August 2026
Safeguarding
Kingsley Explorers is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to a satisfactory DBS check and other statutory checks including right to work in the UK.
Begin your Early Years journey with us and help inspire a love of learning from the very start.
Early Years Apprentice employer: The Independent Schools Council
Joining Kingsley Explorers Nursery as a Founding Early Years Practitioner means becoming part of a pioneering team dedicated to creating a nurturing and enriching environment for children's growth. With a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a strong emphasis on professional development, this role offers not just a job, but a meaningful career in early childhood education. Located within the supportive framework of the Independent Schools Council, you will thrive in a culture that values innovation and collaboration.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
