Apprentice Educator

Busy Bees In Portishead; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 18,000 - GBP 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nursery group in the UK is seeking passionate individuals for the Early Years Apprentice role. Join Busy Bees to work alongside experts in a supportive environment and gain hands-on experience in childcare. You will assist in planning and delivering engaging activities, building relationships with children, parents, and staff. Additionally, you will receive ongoing training and mentorship to help you thrive in your Early Years career. This role is an excellent opportunity for those looking to start their journey in childcare.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Up to 28 days holiday per year

50% childcare discount

Ongoing training and career progression

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Must have been a UK resident for at least 3 consecutive years.
• Motivated to start a career in Early Years.

Responsibilities

• Help plan and deliver age-appropriate activities following the EYFS framework.
• Support the team in providing high-quality childcare experiences.
• Build strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Contribute to the safeguarding of all children.

Skills

Passion for childcare

Enthusiasm

Teamwork

Curiosity

Education

GCSE Maths and English grade 3/D or above or Level 2 Functional Skills

A Level 2 Early Years Practitioner qualification (desirable)

Job description

Join Our Busy Bees Family – Start Your Career in Early Years Today!

Are you passionate about working with children and ready to begin a rewarding career in the Early Years sector? At Busy Bees, the UK’s leading nursery group, we’re looking for enthusiastic, caring individuals to join us as Early Years Apprentices.

Whether you’re taking your first step into childcare or looking to grow your skills, this is your chance to learn, develop, and make a real difference every day.

Why Choose a Busy Bees Apprenticeship?

As an Apprentice, you will:

• Work alongside experienced, inspiring Early Years professionals
• Receive dedicated support and mentoring throughout your qualification
• Take part in bespoke Learning & Development courses
• Be regularly visited by your Development Coach for feedback and guidance
• Gain the skills, confidence, and experience needed for a long-term career in childcare

Our apprentices are valued members of the team — you won't just be watching; you will be learning, contributing, and growing from day one!

Why Busy Bees?

At Busy Bees, we’re proud to be the UK’s leading nursery group, with nearly 400 nurseries nationwide and more around the world. Our mission is simple: to give every child the very best start in life. We’ve also been recognised for our positive workplace culture, and we’re committed to making sure every team member feels valued, supported, and listened to.

You’ll also experience:

• Our award‑winning Bee Curious curriculum - designed to spark imagination, confidence, and a love of learning in every child.
• A workplace culture where every team member feels valued and supported
• Opportunities to get involved in our charity partnership with BBC Children in Need

About our Nursery
Join the dedicated team at Busy Bees Derby Duffield, an Ofsted-rated Good nursery with a capacity of 58 children. Housed in a charming old school building, our cozy nursery offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that families love, fostering secure bonds with our long-standing staff. We pride ourselves on creating a personal home-from-home environment where every child feels valued and cared for. Our outdoor gardens are thoughtfully arranged daily to cater to children's interests, promoting their physical development and overall well‑being. Here, children build self-esteem and confidence while developing a lasting love for the great outdoors. Nestled in a quiet street in the picturesque village of Duffield, Derbyshire, our nursery is a beloved choice for local families. With free parking available, we offer a convenient and supportive workplace for those passionate about nurturing young. We look forward to welcoming you to our friendly community at Busy Bees Derby Duffield!

Busy Bees Benefits

We offer a fantastic range of benefits, including:

• Competitive salary
• Ongoing training and career progression
• Access to our Hive benefits and wellbeing platform - with discounts across a huge range of retailers
• Up to 28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays)
• Your birthday off — our gift to you!
• 50% childcare discount
• Enhanced family leave and return‑to‑work bonus
• Menopause support through Peppy
• Financial guidance through Salary Finance
• Employee Assistance Programme & Mental Health First Aiders
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Workplace pension with Cushon
• Option for discounted Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Your responsibilities and expectations

As an apprentice, you will:

• Help plan and deliver exciting, age-appropriate activities following the EYFS framework
• Support the team to provide high-quality childcare and positive learning experiences for all children
• Build strong, supportive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues
• Ensure children’s individual needs are understood and met
• Contribute to the safeguarding of all children
• Work proactively toward completing your apprenticeship provided by Busy Bees Education and Training within the expected timeframe
• Show enthusiasm, curiosity, and commitment to your own development
• Show an enthusiastic, proactive, and open approach to learning new skills every day
• Provide your line Manager with regular information about the activities and progress within the room

Essential Criteria

To apply, you must:

• Be passionate about childcare and motivated to start a career in Early Years
• To meet funding eligibility, you must have been a resident in the UK for at least the 3 consecutive years
• Be able to provide evidence of Maths and EnglishGCSE Maths and English grade 3/D or above or Level 2 Functional Skills)

Desirable Criteria (not essential)

• A Level 2 Early Years Practitioner qualification

Start your future in Early Years with a team that truly believes in you. Apply now and begin your Busy Bees journey!