At The Old Station Nursery Group, we’re dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Early Years experts. Whether you’re seeking work experience, a traineeship, or an apprenticeship, we have a variety of pathways to help you embark on a rewarding career in childcare.
We provide experience-based training and expert skills support as part of a working nursery team to inspire and prepare you to work effectively with young children.
Our Apprenticeships are tailored to meet different levels of experience and ambition, supporting career growth and professional development for those wishing to progress along the career pathway within the childcare and early education sector.
Apprenticeships in early years education are structured programmes combining practical work experience with academic study. The content is designed to equip apprentices with the skills, knowledge, and qualifications necessary to work with young children and their families to support health, wellbeing, education and development typically from birth to age five.
Our approach ensures that apprentices not only gain hands-on experience but also benefit from mentorship and guidance from seasoned professionals in the field. This holistic blend of practice and theory fosters a deep understanding of child development, setting a strong foundation for a rewarding career in early years education.
An apprenticeship in Early Years with The Old Station Nursery Group is a way for people of any age to gain a nationally recognised Early Years qualification whilst enjoying the benefits of being employed by one of the leading childcare providers in the country. This prestigious recognition reflects our commitment to providing exceptional apprenticeship opportunities in the Early Years sector. Join us to gain a nationally recognised qualification while benefiting from our renowned support and training as one of the leading childcare providers in the country.
For the second year in a row, The Old Station Nursery Group has been proudly selected as a finalist for the ‘Best Large Employer’ award by the Apprenticeship Guide Awards. This recognition underscores the significant role our apprenticeship program plays in developing skilled professionals who are essential to the success of our nurseries. Our apprentices contribute greatly to providing excellent care and education to children, while gaining valuable experience and qualifications that benefit both their careers and our community.
Apprenticeships in early years can be offered at different levels in line with each stage of career development and educational attainment:
This is an entry-level apprenticeship suitable for those starting their career in childcare. It typically lasts around 12 to 18 months and covers the basics of early years care and education.
This is a more advanced apprenticeship for those who may already have some experience or qualifications. It usually takes between 18 to 24 months to complete and is equivalent to A-levels in the UK.
These are designed for those looking to take on more senior roles or specialise in certain areas. They may include leadership and management training and can lead to roles such as nursery manager or early years lead practitioner.
Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT) – designed for individuals seeking to specialise in early childhood development and work with children across the birth to five age range. It is suitable for: Graduate early years practitioners working in various settings (nurseries, schools, home-based settings) across the birth to five age range
Chef Apprenticeship (Production Chef L2) – Production chefs work with a wide range of food items, follow centrally generated recipe and menu specifications and develop skills of organisation, time management, food hygiene standards and legislation, kitchen operations, nutrition and dietary requirements.
Apprentices spend a significant portion of their time working in one of our nurseries. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing practical skills.
This includes classroom-based learning, workshops, and online courses provided by a training provider. Apprentices learn about child development, safeguarding, health and safety, and educational theories.
Apprentices are assessed through a combination of practical observations, written assignments, and reflective accounts of their practice. At the end of the apprenticeship, they undergo an end-point assessment (EPA) to test their overall competency.
Apprentices earn a salary whilst gaining qualifications, providing them with practical experience and financial independence.
Full and relevant Early Years qualification achieved through an approved training provider within 24 months
Apprenticeships receive training in pediatric first aid and will learn to handle emergencies like CPR, choking, and common injuries in children.
Apprenticeships provide a clear pathway to kick start a career or to enhance the professional development of existing employees with opportunities to progress to higher levels of training and more senior roles.
Apprentices gain extensive hands-on experience, real knowledge of the sector and nursery routines, making them well-prepared for the demands of the job.
Apprenticeships offer an effective route for professional development through experience and skills-based training, preparing individuals for long-term career success.
Our apprentices follow a Level 2 Diploma Early Years Practitioner, and then a Level 3 Diploma Early Years Educator. Both qualifications have academic and practical elements, and you will be required to produce a portfolio of work as well as have regular assessments by your assessor, peers and manager. Throughout your apprenticeship you will be developing the skills and knowledge to support you to complete your End Point Assessment (EPA). Your EPA includes an MCQ Paper and a professional discussion of your portfolio.
Gain invaluable experience in the world of childcare through our short-term placements. Typically lasting one to two weeks, these opportunities are designed for students still in full-time education, as part of the Key Stage 4 curriculum.
Our Pathways Include:
The course has equipped me with the skills and knowledge I need to progress in my role as an Early Years Practitioner- Room Leader. My tutor was very supportive, especially when she guided me through my IT skills or lack thereof. Although, I have completed the theory part of my course, I am still struggling with my Maths. I can't thank the nursery and my tutors enough for their patience and passion to want to see me succeed. - I am being supported weekly by a tutor. Overall, it has been a great experience, and I have been able to implement some of the learning into my daily life at work and home.
My journey as an apprentice has been amazing. I have met many people including staff, parents and children that I have created some lovely bonds with throughout the 2 years here!! My room leader and managers are very supportive, asking me questions and giving me advice so I can do great work and become the best practitioner possible… I have also had lots of support from my tutor as she keeps motivating me to get finished now, I am the final step away to becoming qualified and I am so proud of myself as is my room leader and my fellow practitioners. I can now follow my ambitions and go on to be a room leader myself.
I’ve had a great journey with my apprenticeship! I’ve received lots of help and support and have gained lots of confidence within my role. I’ve made lots of strong key worker to parent relationships and built great bonds with my key children. I still feel like I have a lot to learn, and I can’t wait to become a stronger practitioner! Whilst doing my apprenticeship I have received a lot of support from the whole team and wouldn’t have gained my knowledge without them.
Interested in apprenticeships in early years childcare? Our FAQ section covers all the basics, from how to apply to what you’ll learn on the job. Discover how an apprenticeship can help you gain practical experience and start a fulfilling career in childcare.
Quality Assurance: Apprenticeships are regulated to ensure they meet high standards of quality.
Frameworks and Standards: Apprenticeships follow specific apprenticeship standards that outline the skills and knowledge apprentices must acquire.
Government Funding: Apprenticeships are funded by the government, with small employers contributing a smaller portion of the training costs.
Employer Support: At TOSN we provide additional support, including mentoring and additional training opportunities.
Level 2: Generally, no formal qualifications are required, though some employers may prefer candidates with basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Level 3: Usually requires some prior experience, a relevant Level 2 qualification and knowledge of some core aspects of early years practice.
Higher Levels: May require relevant Level 3 qualifications and/or significant work experience in the sector.
Child Development: Understanding stages of development from birth to five years, and how to support children’s learning and development effectively.
Safeguarding: Knowledge of policies and procedures to protect children from harm.
Health and Safety: Ensuring a safe environment for children, including first aid and risk assessment.
Communication and Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues, parents, and other professionals.
Inclusive Practice: Supporting the diverse needs of children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).