I currently work as a nursery apprentice and I’m working towards my level 2 qualification in childcare. I have just finished sixth form and I did A-level s in Health & Social Care, Business and Psychology.
My aim was to have a career working with children. I originally wanted to become a paediatric nurse but I wasn’t certain this was for me. So I looked into an apprenticeship in childcare as a different option and I found that it was definitely the right choice.
I am a Key Person to 11 children in pre-school, and I need to make sure they are learning the relevant skills during their time at nursery. I love creating stimulating activities for the children to learn from, and supporting the children learning new skills so they are ready for school.
I’m really enjoying it. I love having a bond with the children and helping them learn. A child who doesn’t know how to hold a pencil at the beginning of term learns to write their name at the end of term – that sense of them achieving a new skill makes me really enjoy my job.
At the beginning I was shy, and overcoming this was hard, but now I feel confident in what I do it’s a lot easier.
I would highly recommend doing an apprenticeship. It’s the best way to gain experience. Don’t be put off by the money, as it’s worth it in the end!
I’ve been able to learn and work towards my qualification whilst having hands on experience, and I have got to work with children of all ages. It’s been a great start for me.
