Apprenticeships are an invaluable pathway for bringing fresh talent into the sector, and few people understand this better than Shana Selby, Nursery Manager at Little Owls Nursery – St Bede Childcare, Wigan.

As both an employer and an apprentice herself, having recently completed her Level 5 Nursery Manager qualification, Shana is a huge advocate for the benefits that apprenticeships bring to nursery settings.

Shana believes in the power of apprenticeships not only for the learners but also for the nurseries that employ them.

By hiring apprentices, nurseries can shape the next generation of early years professionals, instilling their own unique ethos and best practices from the start. Apprentices learn in real time, applying their theoretical knowledge directly in the nursery environment, ensuring a seamless integration of learning and practice.

The success stories at Little Owls Nursery highlight just how impactful apprenticeships can be.

The team’s career progression is a testament to the long-term value of investing in apprentices. Not only do they grow into skilled professionals, but they also bring new energy, ideas, and enthusiasm to the nursery setting.

When it comes to supporting apprentices, Realise has been a standout training provider for Shana and her team.

“Realise stood out amongst other providers I have used myself or have worked with when supporting apprentices. They ensure their curriculum is of a high quality with a range of learning opportunities and tools to support learners.”

Shana highlights the key reasons why Realise has been her provider of choice:

• High-quality curriculum designed to support professional growth
• Reliable and informative tutors who offer prompt support
• Excellent communication between tutors, learners, and employers

With Realise, apprentices and their employers can be confident in receiving the guidance and resources needed to succeed.

If you’re a nursery setting considering hiring an apprentice, Shana has one piece of advice: “Definitely try it out!”

“Some of our most experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate staff started as apprentices. You can learn a lot through hands-on, practical experience that you simply can’t get from an exclusively classroom-based environment.”

By investing in apprentices, nurseries can cut agency costs, future-proof their workforce, nurture new talent, and ensure they continue to provide the highest standard of care and education to the children they support.

So, if you’re ready to make one of the best decisions for your nursery, why not explore hiring a Level 2 apprentice today? With the right learner and the right programme  – your setting will go from strength to strength.