Lyndsey catches up with previous Childcare student Jade from Carlisle who studied the Level 2 Childcare Apprenticeship with us 2018-19. We find out what Jade has to say about the course and how she found her experience training with System People…
Jade, why did you choose to start a Childcare Apprenticeship?
I had always wanted to work with children. I had worked as a babysitter for family and my neighbours and knew that when I left school, this was what I wanted to do.
What was it about the apprenticeship route that attracted you over staying on at school full time?
I enrolled on this Level 2 Apprenticeship as it meant that I could go straight into work after I left school and start earning a wage.
What do you like the most about the course?
I like how I attend college/classroom lessons every other Tuesday where I get to see the other learners like me. I have already made some lovely friends and we all keep in touch on our new WhatsApp group and share ideas and support each other. The trainer Sarah is really supportive and its nice to attend a college environment regularly to learn and reflect in a focused place and then take back to the classroom what we have learnt.
Do you have any other thoughts you want to share with potential learners?
Firstly, I can’t believe how quickly the first school term went and then how fast the whole year went! I found working in a school very busy and exciting as each term is different yet equally fasted paced. It was fun getting involved with the Reception children I supported to prepare for their first Christmas Nativity play at Christmas! Its been so much better than I expected.
What did you do once you completed your Level 2?
I enrolled onto the Level 3 and am due to complete this Summer. It’s been great and I am looking forward to working as a full time qualified Nursery Practitioner from September this year. I am so glad I chose this route and I am going to miss coming in for my training and seeing all of the other apprentices.
If like Jade you want to work with babies and young children, then starting a Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner this year could be just for you!
A Childcare Apprenticeship is a great way for you to work in paid employment and gain a qualification in Early Years. The Level 2 programme is for a minimum of 12 months where you will work in a local school or nursery and attend classroom based lessons. These lessons are taught by our fantastic Childcare Tutor Jo Irwin in one of our lovely modern city centre classrooms, 1 day every other week. You can go on to progress on to the Level 3 to become a fully qualified Nursery Practitioner.
What are the entry requirements?
- An interest in working with children
- Interview and Assessment
- Maths, English & ICT at Level 2 (A*-D or 9 – 4) * or show the ability to achieve this level during the apprenticeship
Get in touch with Lyndsey today on 01228 210020 or lyndsey.fitheridge@system-people.co.uk