Before starting the Skills Bootcamp in Early Years, Shazia Sultan was already laying the foundations for a career in childcare. She had achieved the ICS Diploma in Child Day Care and the Teaching Assistant Level 2 course, while also working on Functional Skills in Maths (Level 2) and Food Hygiene to strengthen her practical abilities.
Alongside her studies, Shazia supported her family, including helping with disability benefit applications and drafting professional communications. These experiences gave her valuable skills in organisation and resilience, but she was still looking for a clearer pathway into nursery roles.
“The Skills Bootcamp came at the right time,” Shazia explains. “It helped me connect my existing knowledge with real career opportunities and gave me the confidence to move forward professionally. I now feel ready to apply for roles where I can take on more responsibility, support colleagues, and help shape a safe and nurturing learning environment.”
Shazia found the Skills Bootcamp both practical and supportive, saying that she found the tutors to be approachable and good at explaining concepts clearly, particularly safeguarding and the EYFS framework.
She enjoyed the balance of online learning and live sessions, which allowed her to stay focused while managing family commitments. Group discussions and reflections helped her build the confidence to speak up and share her ideas. She also appreciated the creative tasks, such as designing visual resources and writing portfolio reflections, which made it easier to connect theory to real nursery practice.
“If I hadn’t completed this course, I would still be unsure about how to enter the childcare sector. I might have struggled to find a clear pathway into nursery work or felt less confident applying for roles. The course gave me structure, motivation and a sense of direction. It helped me realise that I already had valuable skills and just needed the right support to build on them. Without it, I wouldn’t have made the same progress toward my Level 3 qualification or felt ready to take on professional responsibilities.”
Completing the Bootcamp has given Shazia more than just knowledge, it has provided her with clarity, confidence, and a strong sense of purpose.
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to join the Skills Bootcamp in Early Years. It came at the right time and helped me grow both professionally and personally. I’ve gained confidence, clarity, and a sense of purpose. I now feel ready to take the next step toward becoming a qualified nursery practitioner. Thank you to the tutors and support team for believing in us and making the course accessible and meaningful.”
Realise currently deliver the Government funded Skills Bootcamp in Early Years across Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Devon, Lancashire and Liverpool. To find out more and to apply for a fully funded place, please complete your details below.