Apprenticeships supporting a change of career

One thing we believe at The Childcare Company, is that it’s never too late to pursue a passion. For the longest time, a myth settled upon apprenticeships that assumed they were only for school leavers and young people. Our team is here to tell you that nothing could be further from the truth. You can become an apprentice of a specific skill at any stage of life or career.

Take Natalie Nunn, for example. Natalie recently completed her Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship with The Childcare Company with a specific aim in mind: to achieve her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher.

Did Natalie accomplish what she set out to do? Join us now for a truly inspirational childcare apprenticeship success story, to discover the outcome of her learning programme, and how she shored up her self-belief to go for her goals.

The challenge: changing career later in life

Hi Natalie! Great to catch up with you. Tell everyone a little bit about yourself.

Okay! Well, my name is Natalie Nunn. I work at Wainscott Primary School in Medway. I started working here in September of 2022, and I love it! I’ve recently completed a Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship with The Childcare Company.

That’s so great to hear! What made you decide to take this particular route into early years training?

I had previously worked in a primary school and in day nurseries. I’d also been a childcare assessor. But really, my aim was to be a teacher. I really wanted to be a teacher. I started as a nursing practitioner at my current workplace. Although, quite soon into it, they saw I had the skills to really nurture the children. I realised that’s what I loved to do as well. So, I went to my boss and I said, “Look, I really want to be a teacher. This is what I want to do.” We already had a nursery teacher at the time. So, she said I could become Nursery Lead, with an agreement that I’d train while working. I said, “I’ll do whatever I can.”

Why Natalie chose an apprenticeship route

What brought you to The Childcare Company?

I knew I had the discipline to do the learning. I’d previously done a Level 4 course in childcare, which covered things like learning and development. But now, I was going to undertake a Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship. I’d heard The Childcare Company was a really good training provider, and from the title of the course, I knew it was going to be a good fit for what I wanted. So, I felt it was a good way to go.

Apprenticeship experience and learning

How did you find the apprenticeship experience?

My UK early years apprenticeship experience has been very positive. All the coursework and research were really relevant to my specific role, so it felt very personalised. I’ve gained a lot of valuable experience working with children, which I love to do. So, I appreciate the hands-on aspect of apprenticeship training. You can implement what you learn instantly.

That’s great! What did you discover about apprenticeships that surprised you?

As I started doing the course, what I found right away was that every single unit, every single module…it was all so relative to my job role at that time. What’s great about apprenticeships is that you can put all these new things you’re learning into practice right away. Through my own experience, and seeing the benefits of what I was doing, I was also able to guide some of my peers to training opportunities as well, which was nice.

That’s the great thing about apprenticeships. You don’t have to wait until after the course to implement the learning. You learn on-the-job, and real-world experience forms part of the process.

I completely agree with you!

Other than the new skills you learned, what about the apprenticeship has impacted you the most?

One other thing I’d say is that I’ve been amazed by what my apprenticeship has done for my confidence. As you get older, you lose a bit of that, you know? But, this brought me back up to a level where I was able to believe in myself so much more. So, if anyone thinking about doing an apprenticeship is doubting whether they can do it, I’d say look at me! I didn’t think in a million years that I’d be where I am today. So, even if you’re not that confident in the beginning, you will be by the end of your course.

Confidence gained and advice for apprentices

What advice would you give to learners studying and working in the sector?

If I could give anyone advice, it would be, “Don’t put it down.” Keep going. Even if you only do a tiny bit of work towards your course every day, keep at it. My Development Coach, Claire, was amazing. She set everything at a pace that was perfect for me, and did everything in line with how I like to learn. She was so approachable too. When I got stuck, I felt able to say, “You know, Claire, I just don’t get it.” Then, she’d schedule a call with me where we’d talk it through and she’d break it down. We’d just keep at it until it clicked for me. In those moments, you could so easily give up, and persuade yourself it’s too hard. But, yeah – for anyone considering a career change into UK childcare, I’d say, “You can do it!” Don’t put it down. Pick it up, chip away at it a bit at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Career progression after the apprenticeship

Sounds like you’re ready to take your career to the next level! So, what’s next for you?

Well, I’ve literally only recently finished my apprenticeship. But, as I was coming to the end of the course, the Head Teacher of our school approached me and she said, “How do you feel about going into reception?” At first, I was like, “Oh, I don’t really want to go in as a Teaching Assistant,” because that felt like a step backwards, you know? But, then she said, “No, we want you to be the Class Teacher.” I was speechless! So, that’s what I’m doing now. I’m a Reception Teacher, and I absolutely love it. It’s just the best thing ever.

Oh, my goodness! So, you achieved your dream! We’re so happy for you! Would you ever explore further training, do you think?

I’d actually love to do more learning. I want to do a top-up degree, but I’ve heard that there might be some new apprenticeship pathways announced soon, so I’m going to hold off until I know what all the options are. I do prefer the apprenticeship route. It just helps you to strike such a good balance between work and home life. You can earn while you learn, which is great. Plus, it helps you to have a career you love!

Early years sector: inspiring people

Who would you say has been an inspiration to you in the early years sector?

I’ve worked with some wonderful practitioners and teachers throughout my career, all of whom have inspired me to develop personally and professionally. At my previous school, Windrush in Charlton, I worked with an amazing team and learned so much from the early years staff and leaders. They shaped me into the teacher I am today.

I am also fortunate to currently work with a very supportive team. Our Early Years Phase Leader, Michelle Hatfield, shares my passion for childcare, and advocates for the children’s best interests. Working with that ethos is motivating and inspiring. She’s always so supportive. She encourages me to actually believe it’s never too late to follow my dreams.

How apprenticeships benefit employers

Natalie’s journey is just one example of how apprenticeships bring transformation for learners, employers, and children of all ages. The benefits of apprenticeships for adults are undeniable. No matter what stage a person is at in their career, it’s possible top specialise in areas that align with an individual’s core strengths, creating happy staff, and helping employers to get the most out of their teams.

The Childcare Company’s coach-led approach ensures:

• More capable staff
• Internal progression
• Reduced hiring costs

For employers, this demonstrates how apprenticeship training directly improves staff performance, reduces turnover, and positively impacts learning outcomes for children.

Why people choose The Childcare Company

The delivery of the learning from our Development Coaches, coupled with our 99% success rates, and positive outcomes for children across the UK, means that people choose The Childcare Company time and again.

Natalie’s story is a prime example of childcare apprenticeship career progression. She’s living proof that anyone, no matter their age or professional level, can make their dreams come true with apprenticeships. You and you team can too. Get in touch, and we’ll help you facilitate a childcare apprenticeship career change for you, or a member of your team.

Learners: start your childcare apprenticeship. Employers: build a diverse, high-performing team with expert-led training. Reach out to The Childcare Company team today. Call 01753 596 004, or hit the button below.