Apprenticeship · Early years

Nursery Practitioner apprentice

Little Petals Day Nursery · Reading · RG4

Wage: £14,560 a year
Estimated hourly equivalent: About £8.00 an hour£14,560 ÷ 35 hours ÷ 52 weeks. Assumes pay across 52 weeks; not an advertised hourly rate.
Hours: 35 a week
Apply by: 30 Dec 2026
Possible start date: 30 Jan 2027The actual start is agreed with the employer after interview.
Course: Early Years Educator (Level 3)
Duration: 1 Year 6 Months
Training provider: Shoots Training Limited
Posted: 10 Nov 2026
Reference: 2000063466

You'll apply through the government's Find an apprenticeship service. Applications go to Little Petals Day Nursery.

The apprentice minimum is £8.00 an hour for 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027; older apprentices after their first year may qualify for a higher age rate. Check the apprentice minimum wage.

Never pay to apply. Schools and genuine recruiters never ask for money to apply or to be interviewed. If anyone does, report this job.

About this apprenticeship

Provide high-quality care and support for children aged 0–5 years, ensuring their safety, health and wellbeing at all times.

Create a safe, secure, stimulating and welcoming environment where children feel happy, valued and supported.

Plan and deliver fun, engaging and age-appropriate activities to support children's learning, development and individual needs.

Support children's physical, emotional, social, intellectual and communication development.

Follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and support children in achieving their developmental milestones.

Observe, assess and monitor children's progress, maintaining accurate records and completing observations.

Support children's independence, confidence and self-esteem through positive encouragement and praise.

Build strong, positive relationships with children, parents, carers and colleagues.

Communicate effectively with parents and carers, providing regular updates on children's daily activities, progress and wellbeing.

Carry out daily routines, including feeding, nappy changing, toileting, handwashing and assisting with dressing.

Prepare and supervise meals and snacks, ensuring children's dietary requirements, allergies and nutritional needs are met.

Maintain high standards of hygiene, cleanliness and infection control throughout the nursery.

Safeguard children at all times, following the nursery's safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures.

Identify and report any safeguarding concerns, accidents, incidents or changes in a child's behaviour or wellbeing to the appropriate person.

Supervise children during indoor and outdoor activities, outings and mealtimes.

Work effectively as part of a team, supporting colleagues and contributing to the smooth running of the nursery.

Attend staff meetings, training sessions and professional development opportunities to maintain and improve knowledge and skills.

Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information professionally and appropriately.

Follow all nursery policies, procedures, health and safety regulations and statutory requirements.

Key skills and qualities: Patient, caring and approachable. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Reliable, responsible and organised.

Creative and enthusiastic about children's learning and development.

Able to work independently and as part of a team.

Good understanding of safeguarding and child protection.

Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.

Passionate about providing high-quality childcare and supporting children's development.

Working week: 08:00 – 18:00. 27 – 45 hours per week. Flexible. Days to be confirmed.

Communication skills
Attention to detail
Customer care skills
Team working
Non judgemental
Patience

Qualifications the employer asks for

english (C/4 or above)
Maths (C/4 or above)
early years

About Little Petals Day Nursery

Setting: Nursery (Ofsted registered)
Local authority: Oxfordshire
Registered places: 29

Our independent small setting is located in the beautiful village of Sonning Common.

We care for children as young as 3 months to preschoolers of 5 years old.

3 Rooms

Outdoor & Play

Outdoor Play Area

Safety & Security

Secure Entry System

First Aid Trained Staff

Safeguarding Lead

Learning & Development

EYFS Curriculum

We are often described as somewhere between a childminder and a nursery due to our small size and personalised service.

We understand that your child is the most important creation to you and therefore we aim to deliver the best possible care and play experiences for your child.

With a view to maintain the important routines you've worked so hard to achieve and working closely with parents, carers and those involved in the child's home life.

View Little Petals Day Nursery in the nursery directory

Employer website

How to apply

Choose Apply on GOV.UK and sign in to Find an apprenticeship (or create a free account).
Complete the application before 30 Dec 2026. The employer may close it early if they get enough applicants.
The employer and SHOOTS TRAINING LIMITED contact you about next steps, such as an interview.

More apprenticeships

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Questions about apprenticeships

What qualification will I work towards?

The advertised course is Early years educator (level 3) at Level 3. Confirm the training details with the provider.

How long does the apprenticeship last?

The advertised duration is 1 Year 6 Months. The employer and provider confirm your schedule.

Where do I apply?

Apply through Find an apprenticeship on GOV.UK by 30 Dec 2026. Your application goes to Little Petals Day Nursery.

Read the education apprenticeship guide.

Apprenticeship adverts from Find an apprenticeship (GOV.UK), Department for Education. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.