(South Hornchurch) Nursery Apprentice

Nursery Apprentice

📍 Location: South Hornchurch

📑 Reports to: Deputy Nursery Manager / Nursery Manager

About the Role

We are seeking an enthusiastic Nursery Apprentice to begin their career in early years education. This role offers hands-on experience in a nursery setting while completing all academic aspects of the apprenticeship. You will work under the guidance of qualified practitioners to provide high-quality care, learning, and development for children aged 0–5 years, while gaining essential skills and knowledge to progress in the childcare sector.

Key Responsibilities

Childcare & Learning

Support the delivery of a play-based Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.

Provide a safe, caring, and stimulating environment indoors and outdoors.

Assist in planning activities to help children progress towards early learning outcomes.

Act as a key person for allocated children, building secure relationships.

Record and maintain accurate documentation, including registers, accident/incident books, and risk assessments.

Teamwork & Collaboration

Work closely with senior staff and colleagues, supporting daily nursery operations.

Assist in implementing nursery policies and procedures, including safeguarding and child protection.

Contribute positively to team meetings and training.

Undertake delegated tasks as directed by the Deputy Nursery Manager or Nursery Manager.

Partnerships & Communication

Build positive relationships with parents and carers, keeping them informed about their child’s progress and development.

Promote parental involvement in the nursery’s activities and curriculum.

Work in partnership with the management team to support continuous improvement.

Health, Safety & Wellbeing

Ensure children’s safety and welfare at all times.

Follow safeguarding procedures and report concerns promptly.

Support healthy routines, including nutrition, hygiene, and wellbeing.

Respond appropriately to incidents, accidents, complaints, and emergencies.

Requirements

Willingness to complete all academic elements of the apprenticeship.

Genuine interest in working with children aged 0–5 years.

Commitment to learning and professional development.

Good communication and teamwork skills.

Understanding of the importance of safeguarding and child protection.

Desirable (but not essential):

Experience working in a nursery setting.

Food Hygiene Certificate.

Paediatric First Aid Certificate.

Benefits

Full training and support to complete your apprenticeship.

Hands-on experience in a nursery setting.

Career progression opportunities upon completion of the apprenticeship.

Supportive and friendly working environment.

The chance to start a rewarding career in early years childcare.