Train with us | clockhousepreschool

Do you want to work and train with us?

Do you want to work in Early Years and gain a nationally recognised qualification?

We are a friendly charity pre-school where children from 2 to 5 years old enjoy learning through play in a child centred environment. We follow the EYFS and are rated GOOD by Ofsted. We have a small and knowledgeable team, who enjoy our work where every day brings a new adventure. We are committed to developing a strong and knowledgeable Early Years workforce so are interested to hear from anyone who wishes to explore this career path.

We host apprenticeships and placements for students working towards a recognised qualification where the student works alongside our experienced practitioners as part of our team to deliver outstanding care whilst facilitating engaging, child led learning. Students should be committed to education, motivated, passionate and want to make a difference in children's lives.

As part of your placement or apprenticeship you will have the opportunity to:

Promote the philosophy of “learning through play”, supporting children in play and learning activities, following their interests.
Support everyday care routines, encouraging children to gain self-help skills including dressing, feeding, toilet training and an awareness of personal hygiene.
Facilitate a range of activities based on children’s interests, to promote each child’s physical, intellectual and emotional needs to enable each child to reach their full potential.
Assist other pre-school practitioners with activities to encourage speech and language and social interaction with the children.
Enhance the environment with well planned resources and displays of children's work,
Work with a small key group of children, observing, monitoring and recording each child’s development.
Work under supervision to maintain records and documentation that complies with statutory requirements.
Establish positive relationships with parents and carers. gaining confidence when communicating with parents and carers about the day to day needs of their child and fostering parental engagement.
Attend staff and team meetings and keep up to date with developments in Early Years best practice and legislation.

You must be:

Able to relate to and interact with children positively.
Reliable, enthusiastic, and flexible.
Able to remain calm under pressure, adapt to the unexpected and ‘think on your feet.’
Able to write reports and keep clear and accurate records.
Well organised with good administrative and basic IT skills.
Able to work as part of a team, follow instructions and use your initiative.
Able to communicate clearly and politely both verbally and in writing.
Able to develop positive relationships with parents, carers and other childcare professionals
Willing to learn new skills and able to identify when you need to ask for support

Apprenticeships

We recruit apprentices several times each year. As part of our Apprenticeship programme we work in conjunction with a leading training provider, to offer you the opportunity to complete a full and relevant level 2 or level 3 qualification for the Early Years Workforce (early years educator), while employed by Clockhouse Preschool Playgroup CIO. You will access learning in the setting, through an on the job mentor and tutor visits, and online through the learning portal. You’ll gain experience in all areas of the pre-school and embrace a sound knowledge of current good childcare practices, to start a fulfilling career. You will have the opportunity to work alongside other apprentices and qualified staff, to develop your practical skills in caring for young children under the overall guidance of the preschool Manager and your mentor within the setting.

Ideally you will hold GCSE (or equivalent) grades A*-C/9-4 in English and Maths. An introductory level qualification in Child Development, Health and Social Care or a similar entry level qualification is an advantage but not essential

The hours are flexible, but will be between 8am-6pm Monday – Friday and are term time only (38 weeks per year)

We will provide you with all the on-the-job training you need in your role, and your 20% off-the-job learning will be incorporated as part of your working day.

If you are interested in completing your placement with us whilst studying at a college or university, or would like us to consider your application when we next have a vacancy for an apprentice, please send us an email and we'll be in touch.