Tracey Healey has worked in early years for many years and is based at Little Explorers Day Nursery in Rochester. After completing her Level 3 qualification some years ago, she had hoped to move straight on to a Level 4, but with no funding available, it got put on hold.
Fast forward to a few years later, Tracey’s manager Charlotte suggested the Level 5, and initially she wasn’t sure if she could manage studying again.
“Charlotte said to me, do you feel like doing your Level 5? I wasn’t sure as I’m getting a bit older now and it can be harder to do learning and things, but Charlotte really encouraged me and told me that I already knew it all, so I thought OK I’ll go for it, what have I got to lose?”
With her manager’s encouragement, Tracey enrolled and quickly found her confidence and enthusiasm for professional development returning.
Since starting the course, Tracey has noticed a real difference in her knowledge, confidence and leadership approach.
“It’s made me look at how I do things and why – not just following routine, but really thinking about the reasoning behind it.”
One of the biggest areas of impact has been in how she supports her team. The course helped Tracey understand different leadership styles and the importance of adapting her approach depending on the situation or the person she’s supporting.
“I’ve learnt that not everyone responds in the same way. Sometimes you have to change your approach depending on who you’re working with. The course has given me the knowledge and skills to deal with people better - to recognise when to step in, when to guide and when to just listen.”
This has been especially useful when working with apprentices and new staff members, allowing her to communicate more effectively and build positive working relationships.
“It’s helped me a lot with supporting apprentices and new staff. I can explain things better now – not just what to do, but why we do it that way. I feel more confident giving feedback and sharing my knowledge.”
Her learning has also deepened her understanding of safeguarding, which she applies in both her personal and professional life.
“It’s given me that knowledge around safeguarding… I’ve gone that little bit deeper into it, so I have more understanding of the circumstances and things that are going on. I can use that personally and at work.”
For Tracey, returning to study later in her career has been a journey of growth and self-belief. The course has given her the confidence to lead, support and reflect on her own practice with a renewed sense of purpose.
“It’s definitely worth doing. It’s given me more understanding, more confidence and reminded me why I love what I do.”
When asked what advice she would give to others thinking about starting their Level 5, Tracey’s message is simple and full of encouragement:
“Go for it. Don’t doubt yourself, even if it’s been a while since you’ve studied. You already know more than you think and it really does make a difference to how you work every day.”
Add your details to the form below to request further information about the Level 5 Early Years Specialist apprenticeship.