Early Years Apprentice - Orchard Barns
Orchard Barns Limited · Colchester · posted 23 July 2026
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Orchard Barns, Ardleigh is seeking a warm, enthusiastic Nursery Apprentice with a genuine passion for working with children and a desire to complete a Level 3 Early Years qualification.
About the Role:
As a Nursery Apprentice, you will work as part of a friendly and supportive team, playing an active role in children’s learning and development. Key responsibilities include:
- Acting as a key person for a group of children
- Supporting planning, observations, and assessments
- Ensuring the safeguarding, welfare, and wellbeing of all children at all times
- Creating a safe, stimulating, and engaging learning environment in line with the EYFS Statutory Framework
- Building strong, positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues
What We Offer:
In return for your commitment, we offer:
- £500 completion bonus and £1000 loyalty bonus after 1 year
- Free uniform
- Lunch provided
- Discounted childcare
- 28 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
- Access to CPD and training via Noodle Now
Your Future with Us:
- Supportive Team: You’ll join a welcoming team that values your contribution and supports your learning and development
- Build Your Network: Connect with early years professionals from day one
- High Employability: Most apprentices secure employment or continue further study after completing their training
- Career Progression: Many apprentices remain with us in permanent roles, progressing into higher-level positions
£500 completion bonus and £1000 loyalty!
Your training
Your full role and responsibilities will be set out by your employer. They will provide you with all of the on-the-job training you need to up-skill in your role, and your 20% off-the-job learning will be incorporated as part of your working day.
You will be working towards the Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship standard, which includes:
- Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours
- Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid or Level 3 Award in Emergency Paediatric First Aid
- Level 2 Functional Skills in maths and English (if required)
This will be delivered by your dedicated training provider, Realise.
Where it leads
A full-time qualified position for the right candidate on completion of the apprenticeship.
About Orchard Barns Limited
Orchard Barns Ardleigh is a beautiful nursery providing care and education for children aged 3 months to 5 years from Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm. The nursery is easily accessible from the A12 and A120 and is accessible for the local community and commuters. Orchard Barns offers exceptional outside play space, forest school-themed sessions and outdoor classrooms along with an inviting indoor space providing well planned and stimulating environments with carefully chosen high quality furnishings and equipment.
Things to consider
- DBS and references required, DBS paid for by company
- On-site parking, infrequent bus route
Skills they're looking for
Entry requirements
- GCSE English (grade 4) — essential
- GCSE Maths (grade 4) — essential
Where you'll work
- Redbury Farm, Colchester Road, Ardleigh, Colchester, CO7 7PQ
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