Apprenticeships at Buttercups

Hena from Buttercups Chiswick completed her Level 3 Apprenticeship at Buttercups and is now Nursery Head!

An apprenticeship comprises both on the job and external training for learners working in our settings, working under the supervision and care of our qualified staff.

Buttercups provides a supportive environment for our apprentices to work and train and gain their Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications. We work closely with our providers and assessors to ensure you gain the skills you need, including any functional requirements, to help you in your career.

What will I be doing?

As a Nursery Assistant you will be:

- Planning and supervising activities such as arts and crafts, music and cooking;

- Helping children to learn number skills through activities like counting games;

- Reading stories and providing other activities to develop language skills;

- Helping children to learn skills such as dressing and using cutlery;

- Feeding, bathing and changing babies;

- Observing children and writing reports on their progress according to the Statutory guidance and EYFS framework;

- Being aware of health and safety and ensuring the safety of children at all times;

- Sharing information on children's development with their parents.

What hours will I be working?

Your working hours will vary. They will usually include shifts to cover early starts and late finishes.

What will I earn?

Buttercups offer apprentices £8 an hour (whilst the National Minimum Wage for an apprentice is only £6.40). 

What do I need to do before I start work?

You need to have a good standard of general education such as GCSEs, including English and Maths at Level C or Level 4 or above in order to complete your course in Advanced Apprenticeship in the Children and Young Persons Workforce (Early Years Educator). However, if you pass the provider application and assessment process you will be able to take the equivalent of these (Functional Skills) as part of the course.

As part of our recruitment process we will need satisfactory references and you will need Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance. You will begin your career working as a nursery assistant under the supervision of more experienced staff.

If you are interested in our apprenticeship opportunities please email Sam Young jobs@buttercups-nursery.co.uk for more details.

Or click here to see all of our current vacancies: Vacancies at Buttercups

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Hena from Buttercups Chiswick completed her Level 3 Apprenticeship at Buttercups and is now Nursery Head!

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An apprenticeship offers a great route to becoming a Nursery Teacher because you can earn as you learn. Somebody taking the university route could be hampered by large debts by the time they start work, whereas with an apprenticeship you are earning from day one. [Figures above from statista.com]

Meet some of our Apprentices

Manna, Level 3 Apprentice, Syon Park

"I didn't just want a job; I wanted to be part of a child’s early journey. I chose Buttercups because I saw how every child is treated as an individual and I wanted to learn how to give that kind of special care.

What I love most is the "click" moment. This is when I read something in my books and then see it happen in real life with a child an hour later. It makes my learning feel real.

I also love how the team talks to each other without even speaking. Everyone
knows what to do to keep the children happy. It feels like a big family working
together.

My manager lets me try leading new activities, but I always know they
are there to help me if I get stuck. It helps me build my confidence."

Agata, Level 3 Apprentice, Syon Park

"Taking up an apprenticeship felt like the right step to become more professional, gain the right qualifications, and continue growing in a career I care about.

What I like most about my apprenticeship is that everything I learn can be applied directly to my daily work. It makes my role feel more purposeful, as I understand why I am doing things and how they support children’s development. The apprenticeship has also helped improve my observations and deepen my knowledge of child development, which has made me more confident in my practice.

What I like most about working at Buttercups is the strong, family-like atmosphere within the team. Everyone is supportive, and you can always rely on your colleagues for help and guidance. "

Yohan, Level 3 Apprentice, Acton

"What I enjoyed most about my apprenticeship was working closely with the children and being involved in their learning and development. It has been very rewarding to watch children become more confident, learn new skills, and achieve important milestones, knowing that I have played a part in supporting them.

I also really enjoyed learning in a practical way rather than only through theory. Using what I learn each day in the nursery has helped me gain a clearer understanding of child development, the EYFS, and my responsibilities as an Early Years Educator.

Another aspect I enjoyed was being part of a team. The advice and support from my colleagues helped me build confidence and develop my skills. Creating positive relationships with both the children and the staff made my apprenticeship a valuable and enjoyable experience."

Nursery Fun