Zoe completed her Modern Apprenticeship in Social Services Children and Young People in February 2022 with Angus Council. Now employed by the High School of Dundee, Zoe has recently been promoted to an Early Year’s Practitioner.
'I would say to anyone thinking of completing an apprenticeship, do it you won’t regret it. I enjoyed mine so much and learned so much from it, it’s worth it. I’ve came away from it with not only a really amazing job, but I’ve also made friends for life'
Watch Zoe's short video clip
Why did you choose a modern apprenticeship?
I chose a modern apprenticeship because as soon as I left school I wanted to gain more experience but be able to work at the same time. I had heard lots of positives about apprenticeships, I knew it would be the right choice for me. I have always wanted to work within the childhood practice sector and thought this apprenticeship was the perfect start to a happy career in childcare.
What has your experience been?
During my apprenticeship I gained so much experience. I was given so many opportunities to attend training courses to develop my understanding further which helped my practice. From the very start of my apprenticeship my senior was allowing me to get straight into making snack, planning activities and taking group times. It definitely built my confidence and got me ready for when my course work was complete, and I was a qualified Early Years Practitioner.
What is a typical day like?
A typical day for me during my apprenticeship was greeting the children into the nursery in the mornings and finding out about their weekends/nights. I would then observe and have time to spend playing with the children in the morning.
Then I would select a couple children to help me prepare snack and get it ready before group. During group I would help my senior by taking notes or going through to the office to print and laminate the resources that we need. At lunch I would sit with the kids while they are eating and grab myself a snack or piece of fruit to have alongside the children. Then in the afternoon I would take small groups out to a quiet area to have cosy corner as I have been nurture trained. When the kids go home that would be the time to complete observations or setting up new provocations within the room.
What do you like most about your job?
I love everything about my job but seeing the children progress and learn from something I have set up or created is something really special. I also love the relationships you build with the children, their family and your work colleagues.
How relevant is the qualification requirements to the work you are doing?
The qualification requirements are relevant as they allowed me to go straight into a nursery and continue my practice. I qualified as an Early Years Practitioner and got a job as an Early Years Support Worker to start with and have recently been promoted to an Early Years Practitioner.
What words of advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
I would say to anyone thinking of completing an apprenticeship, do it you won’t regret it. I enjoyed mine so much and learned so much from it, it’s worth it. I’ve came away from it with not only a really amazing job, but I’ve also made friends for life.
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