Main Duties and Responsibilities

As an Apprentice Early Years Practitioner, you will:

• Support children's learning and development through high-quality play-based experiences.
• Assist in planning and delivering engaging activities appropriate to children's individual ages, stages and interests.
• Promote children's emotional wellbeing, independence and positive behaviour.
• Provide high-quality care, including supporting personal hygiene routines, toileting and changing where required.
• Prepare and serve meals, snacks and drinks in line with food hygiene and allergy procedures.
• Support children during mealtimes and encourage healthy eating habits.
• Help create and maintain a safe, clean, stimulating and welcoming learning environment.
• Observe children's progress and contribute to assessments, learning journals and planning.
• Build positive relationships with children, parents, carers and colleagues.
• Follow safeguarding, health and safety and all nursery and school policies and procedures.
• Work effectively as part of the nursery and wider school team.
• Demonstrate professionalism, confidentiality and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Apprenticeship Learning

Alongside your day-to-day role, you will complete a Level 3 Early Years apprenticeship, which will include:

• Attending online or face-to-face training sessions, workshops and INSET days.
• Completing assignments, reflective journals and project work.
• Developing new skills, including working with different groups of children and supporting those with additional needs.
• Taking part in mentoring and shadowing opportunities with experienced practitioners.
• Participating in training relating to safeguarding, curriculum developments, policies and procedures.
• Completing off-the-job training as required by the apprenticeship programme.

Person Specification

Essential

• GCSE Grade 4/C or above in English and Mathematics.
• A genuine passion for working with young children.
• A caring, patient and nurturing approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A flexible and reliable team player.
• A willingness to learn and develop professionally.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to work using your own initiative when appropriate.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Desirable

• Previous experience of working or volunteering with young children.
• Knowledge of child development and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
• An understanding of inclusive practice and supporting children with additional needs.

What We Offer

• A supportive and experienced nursery team.
• A well-resourced, modern learning environment.
• High-quality mentoring throughout your apprenticeship.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• The chance to make a real difference to children's earliest learning experiences.
• A welcoming and successful school community committed to achieving the best outcomes for every child.

If you are enthusiastic, committed and ready to begin a rewarding career in Early Years, we would love to hear from you and welcome you to Acresfield Academy.