Looking to work with children after school? Have you ever considered doing an apprenticeship? Here are some tips that could really help someone new to the industry to successfully apply for a childcare apprenticeship.
- Make sure your CV includes information about why you would like to work with children. Managers are looking for someone who is enthusiastic about getting into childcare.
- Make sure that you fill out your application fully so your recruiter can find you the best placement. Try to include as much information as possible!
- Keep your phone on hand to answer calls about vacancies, interviews or even job offers! When looking for a job, make sure that you answer the phone politely and get back to your recruiter as soon as you can.
- Be honest. If you’re not interested in a certain vacancy, tell your recruiter- they can then look for another role which would appeal to you more.
- If you cannot attend an interview, let your recruiter know as soon as possible. They might be able to reschedule for you. However, bear in mind that interviews are a crucial part of applications, so don’t cancel unless you absolutely have to!
- Talk to your recruiter if you’re nervous about your interview. They’ll give you tips to make sure you do as well as possible. This includes; turning up on time, dressing smartly and having your phone on silent during the interview.
- Make sure you do test runs to your workplace prior to starting there so you know whether it’s a commutable distance. You’ll be making this journey roughly 5 days per week so you need to make sure you’re not going to be too tired out from all the travelling.
- If you’re 100% certain on working in a nursery then when you apply for the apprenticeship, pay for your DBS on the update serviceat the same time (only if you can) as this will help you get into your job role quicker. Sometimes a DBS can take a while to go through and can take up more time before you start work, so get a jump on it if you can!
- Approach your local nurseries with a CV and covering letter. You can let them know that you’ve spoken to us, too. We won’t be recruiting for every single nursery so it’s important to keep your options open. Also, look at the National Apprenticeship Serviceregularly as most apprenticeships will be advertised on there.
- Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get an apprenticeship after the first one you apply for. You could always ask your local nurseries for work experience which could then result in an apprenticeship if they like you!
