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- Tasks: Support young children in a safe, engaging environment while gaining hands-on childcare experience.
- Company: Join Tops Day Nurseries, a top-rated childcare provider committed to sustainability and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, generous holiday allowance, and discounts on childcare and local attractions.
- Why this job: Kickstart your childcare career with a supportive team and opportunities for growth and development.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your passion for working with children and a good work ethic.
- Other info: This is a fully work-based apprenticeship with no college attendance required.
Job description:
CHILDCARE APRENTICESHIP – LEVEL 2
Location: Tops Stonehouse, 39 Wolsdon Street, Stonehouse, PL1 5EH
Pay rate: £6.41 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 Stonehouse Nursery is an 80 place Day Nursery & Pre-School situated in Stonehouse, Plymouth. The nursery run several extra-curricular activities including Tops Forest School, Cooking school, Boogie Mites, Yoga, Tooth brushing, Football fun 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.
INDSW
Childcare Apprenticeship employer: Tops Day Nurseries
Contact Detail:
Tops Day Nurseries Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Childcare Apprenticeship
✨Tip Number 1
Show your passion for working with children during any informal conversations or interviews. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight your enthusiasm and commitment to childcare.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the nursery's activities, such as Tops Forest School and Cooking School. Mention these in discussions to demonstrate your interest in their unique programmes and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current employees or apprentices at Tops Stonehouse Nursery. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for standing out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the nursery's approach to early years education. This shows your genuine interest and helps you engage more effectively during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Childcare Apprenticeship
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. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that showcase your commitment to nurturing and educating young children.
Highlight Soft Skills: Emphasise your soft skills such as communication, patience, and teamwork in your application. These are crucial in a childcare setting and will show that you understand the importance of these qualities in working with children and colleagues.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is essential in a childcare environment.
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, as well as your approach to supporting their development.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask the interviewer about the nursery's philosophy, the team dynamics, and opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Good Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in childcare. During the interview, practice clear and confident speaking. Also, listen actively to the interviewer's questions and respond thoughtfully, showcasing your ability to engage with both colleagues and children.
