Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship - in Tattenhall

We’re excited to be working with Sandy Bears Nursery & Pre-School to recruit a Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprentice to join their fantastic team in Tattenhall, Chester.

Sandy Bears provides the highest quality of childcare for children aged between 3 months and 5 years, alongside before and after-school care for children up to the age of 11 attending local schools including The Park Tattenhall, Huxley C of E Primary School and Bickerton Primary School.

Based in The Old School House on the High Street in the picturesque village of Tattenhall, Sandy Bears is ideally located just off the A41 towards Chester.

The Opportunity

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about working with children and wants to build a rewarding career in the Early Years sector.

As an Early Years Educator Apprentice, you’ll work alongside an experienced and fully qualified team, gaining hands‑on experience while working towards your Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship.

You’ll play an important role in creating a safe, nurturing and exciting environment where children can learn, develop and, most importantly, have fun.

Sandy Bears is looking for someone who can bring enthusiasm, creativity and plenty of personality to the team — someone who isn't afraid to get involved, get messy and make every day an adventure for their little bears!

What You’ll Do

Provide a stimulating, nurturing and happy environment where children can grow, learn and develop.

Support children’s learning and development through interaction, play and exciting activities.

Build positive and trusting relationships with children and their families.

Plan and support activities that encourage children’s development across all areas of the EYFS.

Carry out and record observations of children’s development in line with the EYFS framework.

Support the delivery of an exciting and engaging learning environment.

Encourage children to explore, investigate, problem‑solve and develop their independence.

Work as part of the wider nursery team to provide high‑quality childcare.

Work in partnership with parents and carers to support children’s development.

Follow the setting’s safeguarding, health and safety and operational policies and procedures.

Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families and the setting.

Assist with setting up, clearing away and maintaining activities, resources and equipment.

Participate in training and continuous professional development.

Contribute positively to the day‑to‑day running of the nursery.

What They’re Looking For

Sandy Bears are looking for someone who:

Can give countless of cuddles and make our little bears feel unique and special.

Has a friendly face and isn’t afraid to laugh at jokes which make no sense at all!

To go above and beyond creating the most exciting learning environment for our little bears.

Someone who can think outside the box... paper and pens are just boring!

Someone who loves being outside, jumping in puddles, caring for animals and climbing trees.

Is passionate about working with young children and helping them learn and develop.

Is enthusiastic, friendly and approachable.

Can build positive relationships with children, parents and colleagues.

Works well as part of a team but can also use their own initiative.

Is reliable, committed and willing to learn.

Has a positive ‘can-do’ attitude.

Is creative and enjoys coming up with new ideas and activities.

Is happy to get involved and isn't afraid to get messy!

Understands the importance of safeguarding and keeping children safe.

Has an awareness of health and safety.

Can communicate effectively with children, parents and colleagues.

Is organised and able to follow instructions.

Has a good sense of humour and a genuine passion for Early Years.

Working Hours

Full or part time available.

Pay

Apprenticeship pay scale – £8.00 per hour for the first 12 months, followed by National Minimum Wage for your age.

Training to be Provided

You will work towards the Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship Standard.

The programme typically includes:

• 18 months practical learning
• An additional 8-week End Point Assessment period
• Regular support from a dedicated tutor
• Workplace learning and development
• A nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification

Your training will be delivered alongside your role, allowing you to put your learning into practice within the nursery environment.

Future Prospects

This apprenticeship may lead to a future permanent position with Sandy Bears Nursery & Pre-School.

It can also provide a fantastic foundation for a long‑term career in Early Years, with potential progression into roles such as:

• Early Years Educator
• Senior Early Years Practitioner
• Nursery Management
• Further Early Years and education qualifications

Benefits from the Training Provider

• Access to TOTUM student discount
• Access to the Life and Progress employee support programme, including:
• Health and wellbeing support
• Around-the-clock support
• Confidential counselling
• Dedicated tutor support throughout your apprenticeship
• Flexible, supportive learning designed around the learner and their workplace
• Access to a dedicated virtual learning platform to help you stay on track with your programme
• Benefits from the training provider:
• Access to TOTUM student discount
• Access to Life and Progress employee support programme which includes: Health and wellbeing support, Around-the-clock support, and Confidential counselling (provided by SCCU Group)

This post in subject t o an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and all other pre-employment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance.