Early years apprenticeships can be a great way to kickstart a successful career in childcare. This type of apprenticeship provides hands-on training and on-the-job experience in a real-world setting, allowing individuals to learn the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this field.
During an early years apprenticeship, individuals will have the opportunity to work with children of various ages, including infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. They will learn how to plan and implement activities that are appropriate for each age group, as well as how to create a safe and stimulating environment for children to learn and grow.
In addition to working with children, early years apprentices will also learn about child development, child psychology, and the laws and regulations that govern the childcare industry. This knowledge will be invaluable as they progress in their careers and take on more responsibilities.
Another benefit of an early years apprenticeship is that it allows individuals to earn while they learn. This can make it a more accessible option for those who may not have the financial resources to attend college or university.
Upon completion of an early years apprenticeship, individuals will have the opportunity to pursue a wide range of career paths in the childcare industry, such as working as a nursery nurse, a preschool teacher, or a childminder. They may also choose to continue their education and pursue advanced degrees in early childhood education or related fields.
Overall, an early years apprenticeship can be a valuable investment in a successful career in childcare. It provides the hands-on experience, knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field, along with the opportunity to earn while learning, and a wide range of career options upon completion.
Aren’t apprenticeships just for school leavers?
Early years apprenticeships can be a great option for older career changers looking to enter the childcare industry. They provide hands-on training and on-the-job experience in a real-world setting, which can be especially beneficial for individuals who have not previously worked in this field.
One advantage of an early years apprenticeship for older career changers is that it allows them to learn the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field while they are working, which can be more efficient than going back into full time education. This can be especially beneficial for those who may have financial or other responsibilities that make it difficult to attend college or university.
Another advantage is that apprenticeships often provide the opportunity for individuals to earn a salary while learning, which can help ease the financial burden of changing careers.
For older career changers, an early years apprenticeship can also provide a chance to work with children and gain experience in the field before committing to a full-time career in childcare. This can help them to make an informed decision about whether this is the right career path for them and help them to pursue their passion.
Additionally, older career changers often bring a wealth of life experience and maturity to the field, which can be an asset when working with children and families. They may also have transferable skills from previous careers, such as time management and communication, that can be beneficial in the childcare setting.
Overall, an early years apprenticeship can be a valuable option for older career changers looking to enter the childcare industry. It provides a hands-on learning experience, salary, opportunity to make an informed decision and the chance to apply transferable skills and life experience.
How Real Skills can help you to enrol onto an early years apprenticeship programme
Applying for and preparing for an early years apprenticeship can seem daunting, but by following a few simple steps, you can increase your chances of success.
- Research different apprenticeship opportunities: Look for apprenticeship opportunities in your area that match your interests and qualifications. Research the requirements for each opportunity and make sure you meet them before applying.
- Tailor your CV and cover letter: Tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific apprenticeship opportunity you are applying for. Highlight any relevant qualifications or experience you have, and explain why you are interested in the apprenticeship and how it aligns with your career goals.
- Prepare for the interview: Research the company and the role you are applying for, and think about how your skills and experience align with the job requirements. Practice answering common interview questions and come up with examples of how you have demonstrated the skills and qualities they are looking for.
- Gather required documents: Make sure you have all the required documents, such as proof of your qualifications and ID, before your interview.
- Learn about the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): The EYFS is the national framework that sets out the standards for the learning, development, and care of children from birth to 5 years old in England. You should familiarize yourself with the framework and its principles, as it will be central to your apprenticeship training.
- Brush up on your Maths and English skills: Many early years apprenticeships require you to have a minimum level of Maths and English. If you are not confident in these areas, consider taking a course or doing some self-study to improve your skills.
- Be open-minded and flexible: Apprenticeships can be challenging and demanding, so it’s important to be open-minded and flexible. Be prepared to learn new skills, work hard, and adapt to new environments.
By following these steps, you will be well-prepared to apply and succeed in an early years apprenticeship.
How Real Skills can help early years settings
At Real Skills Training, we understand the importance of apprenticeships in developing a skilled workforce and fostering the next generation of leaders. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of apprenticeship programmes to help employers meet the unique needs of their business.
Our team of experienced professionals will work with you to design and implement an apprenticeship programme that is tailored to your specific industry and business goals. We’ll provide support and guidance throughout the entire process, from recruitment and selection to training and development.
Our programmes are designed to provide hands-on training and on-the-job experience to apprentices, while also meeting the requirements of the relevant standards and frameworks. We also offer flexible delivery options, including online learning, to accommodate the needs of both the employer and the apprentice.
We pride ourselves on our high-quality training and support, which is reflected in our high success and completion rates. We have a team of experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping apprentices succeed and will be there to support them throughout the entire process.
With our help, you can be confident that your apprenticeship programme will be a success, and that your apprentices will be well-prepared to take on the challenges of their new role. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your apprenticeship programme.