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- Tasks: Support young children in a safe, fun environment while gaining hands-on childcare experience.
- Company: Join Tops Day Nurseries, a top-rated childcare provider in South England since 1990.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, generous holiday, childcare discounts, and an annual bonus scheme.
- Why this job: Kickstart your childcare career with a supportive team and opportunities for growth.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your passion for working with children!
- Other info: This is a work-based course leading to a Level 2 qualification in early years education.
Job description:
CHILDCARE APRENTICESHIP – LEVEL 2
Location: Tops Bournemouth, Bournemouth, Dorset
Pay rate: £7.56 per hour
Contracted Hours: 30 hours per week/ Part time
About the Role
Are you passionate about working with young children and eager to begin a rewarding childcare career? Join us as a Childcare Apprentice, gaining hands-on experience while working towards a Level 2 qualification in early years education.
This qualification covers knowledge of children from birth to 7 years, focusing on ages 0-5, and meets the Department for Education\’s Level 2 criteria. You\’ll gain practical experience, be assessed on-site, and complete written tasks, with support from your assessor via an online platform.
Upon completion, you will qualify as a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner.
We are proud to be ranked 9th in the prestigious Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK in 2024! We offer fantastic opportunities to develop in a Nursery Career from Level 2 Childcare Apprenticeships all the way through to Nursery Manager or even to become an Early Years Teacher!
About the Nursery
Tops Bournemouth Nursery is a 131 place Day Nursery & Pre-School situated in Bournemouth Royal Hospital, Bournemouth. The nursery run several extra-curricular activities including Tops Forest School, cooking school, Boogie Mites, yoga, meditation and much more!
What does the role involve?
What are we looking for?
Why You’ll Love Working with Us
At Tops Day Nurseries, we believe in rewarding our team for their hard work and dedication. Here are some of the fantastic benefits you’ll enjoy as part of our family:
Annual Bonus Scheme : As an Employee-Owned Company, you’ll share in our success. Each May, you’ll have the opportunity to receive a bonus from our profit shares.
Childcare Discount : Enjoy up to 60% off childcare within Tops Day Nurseries, making it easier for you to balance work and family life.
Flexible Working Options : Maximise Your Time Off with Compressed Hours. By working compressed hours, you can enjoy even more time off either work a four-day week every week and gain up to 48 extra days off per year. or, alternatively, work nine days over two weeks, and you’ll receive up to 24 additional days off annually. That’s on top of your standard holiday allowance!
Holiday Allowance : Take advantage of 29 days of holiday to relax and recharge.
Exclusive Deals and Discounts : Access our reward and recognition platform, Each Person, for up to 40% off cinema tickets, Diesel Savings Card, and cashback on your favourite supermarkets and high street retailers.
Health and Wellbeing Support : We’ve got you covered with NHS Prescription Charges, Optical Care, and Dental Treatment.
Career Development : We’re committed to your growth and offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement.
Why Tops Day Nurseries?
We are a leading early education and childcare provider in South England, established in 1990. We promote environmental sustainability and social responsibility by educating today’s children to influence future generations. We value respect, open communication, and teamwork, fostering a positive, purpose-driven work environment.
As an Employee-Owned Company, our colleagues are co-owners, benefiting from the company’s growth through annual profit-sharing bonuses.
Exciting? We think so! Your journey starts here, so take the first step to become part of Tops Team by clicking apply!
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status. All candidates will be required to have an enhanced DBS which is on the update service. All offers are conditional upon satisfactory background checks. This role involves regulated activity with children. You should not apply if you are on the Childrens’ Barred List.
INDCEN2
Childcare Apprentice employer: Tops Day Nurseries
Contact Detail:
Tops Day Nurseries Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Childcare Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Show your passion for working with children during the interview. Share any relevant experiences, even if they are informal, like babysitting or volunteering, to demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to childcare.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the nursery's values and activities, such as their focus on environmental sustainability and community involvement. This will help you align your answers with their mission and show that you're a good fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific situations with children, such as supporting their behaviour or creating a stimulating environment. This will showcase your understanding of the role and your proactive approach to childcare.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Tops Day Nurseries if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Childcare Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience or skills related to childcare, even if it's informal. Mention any volunteer work, babysitting, or relevant coursework that demonstrates your passion for working with children.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for the role and why you want to start a career in childcare. Be sure to mention specific qualities that make you a good fit, such as patience, communication skills, and a willingness to learn.
Showcase Your Passion: In your application, convey your genuine interest in early years education. Share any personal experiences that have inspired you to work with children, and explain how you plan to contribute positively to the nursery environment.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a childcare setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tops Day Nurseries
✨Show Your Passion for Childcare
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children during the interview. Share any relevant experiences, even if they are informal, such as babysitting or volunteering, to demonstrate your commitment to a career in childcare.
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Childcare Apprentice. Be prepared to discuss how you would contribute to creating a safe and stimulating environment for children, and mention any ideas you have for engaging activities.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication Skills
Highlight your ability to work well with others, as teamwork is crucial in a nursery setting. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with peers or supported others in previous roles or activities.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer about the nursery's approach to childcare, their values, or opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
