Childcare Apprenticeship

Role

Early Years Apprentice – Cherry Trees Day Nursery, Cranfield, MK43 0ZU
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Contract:

37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Working pattern:
Varied shifts Monday-Friday between 07:30 and 18:30. Start dates available from 18 August to 18 September 2026.

Salary: £8.00 per hour at start, rising to £10.41 per hour after six months. If aged 21 or over, after 12 months there is a further increase to £12.74 per hour.

• Plan and implement high-quality, engaging activities linked to the early years curriculum.
• Observe, assess, and record children’s progress.
• Ensure every child feels safe, valued, and happy; promote wellbeing and meet individual needs.
• Follow policies, procedures, and direction from management, trainer, and assessor.
• Make effective use of off-job learning time and manage study workload.
• Build strong, positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team.

• Interest in child development and desire to build a career in early years.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
• Ability to manage time effectively and complete coursework within deadlines.
• Empathy, nurturing, and prioritisation of child safety.

• Practical experience at the nursery with a dedicated trainer/assessor.
• Regular group training sessions (every 6-8 weeks) at the Academy in Newport Pagnell.
• Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years Practitioner/Educator qualification.
• English and/or maths functional skills qualification if not already held.
• Paediatric first-aid qualification valid for three years.

• Right to work in the UK and a National Insurance number.
• Valid photographic  (passport or driving licence).
• Computer (laptop or PC) for online assessment and coursework.
• Residency in the UK for at least the previous three years.
• Comfortable travelling to the Academy; travel costs covered.
• Residence within a commutable distance of the nursery.
• No VISA sponsorship available.
• Enhanced DBS check will be required.

We’re committed to FREDIE (fairness, respect, equality, diversity, inclusion, and engagement). Applicants of all ages, backgrounds, and with reasonable adjustments are encouraged to apply.