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 £8.60 an hour (whilst the National Minimum Wage for an apprentice is only £8.00). 

Can I apply for an Apprenticeship at Buttercups?

Before starting your apprenticeship with Buttercups, you will need to meet the following requirements:

- Education: You should have a good standard of general education, ideally including GCSEs in English and Maths at Grade C or Grade 4 or above as these qualifications are desirable to successfully complete the Advanced Apprenticeship in the Children and Young People’s Workforce (Early Years Educator). If you do not have the required GCSEs, but successfully pass the application and assessment process, you will be able to complete the Level 2 Functional Skills qualifications as part of your apprenticeship.

- UK residency: British National, or UK resident for the previous three years.

- Working Hours: Buttercups apprenticeship opportunities are offered on a full-time basis, with a minimum of 30 hours per week.

- Visa Sponsorship: Buttercups currently does not offer visa sponsorship opportunities.

- References and DBS Check: You will need to provide satisfactory references as part of our safer recruitment process at Buttercups. You will also need to complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before working with children.

For more information you may wish to explore the  Department of Education website.

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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Ellie from Buttercups Isleworth started with Buttercups aged just 16 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. 

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