Hena from Buttercups Chiswick completed her Level 3 Apprenticeship at Buttercups and is now Deputy 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
Hena from Buttercups Chiswick completed her Level 3 Apprenticeship at Buttercups and is now Deputy Nursery Head
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]
Mia, Level 3, Teddington
"I started an Apprenticeship at Buttercups because I wanted to be able to learn from others that have more experience than me and to get feedback on how I can better myself in the nursery setting. My whole team and the Nursery Head have continuously looked out for me, they make sure that I look after myself both mentally and physically.
My favourite part of the job is coming in to nursery in the morning and seeing the children smile! I love helping them to achieve their goals and I love that they know they can come to me if they have a problem.
My goal is to use the knowledge that I've learnt to further my development with different age groups."
Judy, Level 5, Isleworth
"I was drawn to an Apprenticeship at Buttercups because I wanted to increase my knowledge and progress my role. My team at Isleworth are amazing - we are like a family and have fun everyday whilst working. They are always there to make me smile, picking me up if I feel a bit down or stressed.
My favourite part of the job is being the children's playmate - every day is different! I also love my Nursery Head as she has been so supportive.
I hope that I can continue to work my way up to Deputy Head and one day even Nursery Head."
Ellie, Level 5, Isleworth
"I joined the team at Buttercups Isleworth when I was 16 years old, as a Level 2 Apprentice. I've always loved children and knew it was something I was destined to do. As I was young, I loved being able to go to college one day a week to study. It let me experience college life and I met lots of new people that were also doing apprenticeships like mine.
I was inspired by the professionalism and passion of my Nursery Head, and realised that I too could climb the ladder, so I did my Level 3 with Buttercups.
My hard work has paid off and I am now Deputy Head at Buttercups Isleworth. I still have a drive to learn though, which is why am now studying for my Level 5."