When Little Stars Nursery team member Caitlin started her Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship with Best Practice Network in 2023, she didn’t expect just how much it would boost her confidence or where it might take her. Now a setting manager studying for her degree, she shares her journey and how she hopes to inspire others.

"There are so many opportunities in childcare and in my opinion, it’s one of the most rewarding jobs you can do."

How did your apprenticeship help you in your role? 

When I started the Level 5 in April 2023, I was a baby room manager. A few months later, in September 2024, I became deputy manager of the setting and in April 2025, I became one of the setting managers.

The course helped me in lots of ways. It built my leadership skills and taught me how to adapt my approach depending on who I was working with. It gave me more confidence and helped me support both myself and my team. My knowledge of childcare also grew and that helped me reach the role I have now.

How did your apprenticeship inspire you to keep learning?

I just started my Level 6 BA (Hons) in Education in September. The Level 5 was challenging at times, but it showed me I could do it and gave me the confidence to carry on and take the next step. Now I'm working towards my degree!

What inspired you to choose a career in Early Years? 

I started out doing Health and Social Care at college when I got a placement here at Little Stars Nursery. That’s where I developed a love for Early Years that I didn't know I had. There are so many opportunities in childcare and, in my opinion, it’s one of the most rewarding jobs you can do. You get to play a huge role in the start of a child’s life and get to watch them hit their many milestones over the years.

Why did you choose Best Practice Network? 

We had a leaflet come through the door at nursery, and when I saw the Level 5 apprenticeship, I decided to apply. I’d definitely recommend BPN! The support I received was amazing and there are so many different courses available.

My tutor, Emma Wynne, was brilliant. I don’t think I would have finished the course without her. I have dyslexia, which I shared at the start, and Emma really took the time to understand me and find the best way to support me. She was always honest with her feedback, which helped me improve. I ended up achieving a distinction and I can’t thank her enough.

Finally, how did your setting benefit from you doing the apprenticeship? 

It’s had a really positive impact. Since I completed the course, three other team members have now started the Level 5 too!

"I’d definitely recommend BPN! The support I received was amazing and there are so many different courses available."

Want to know more about our Early Years Apprenticeships?

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 Email: enquiries@bestpracticenet.co.uk

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