Preventing crises for children and families

The Childcare Company has empowered many early years professionals to help families in need. Sometimes, a little learning and a refreshment of skills is all that’s needed to take you to the next level.

Take Zhour for example. Having already completed a Level 3 qualification Zhour felt ready to progress to a Level 4 programme, knowing that that was what was needed to progress in the sector.

Our team caught up with Zhour to find out how everything went. We talked all things apprenticeships, impact, value, and future career plans.

The challenge: keeping skills sharp in the early years sector

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

Hello, Everyone! My name is Zhour Jrabi, and I work as part of the Crisis Intervention Team for Norfolk County Council. I completed the Level 4 Children, Young People and Families Practitioner – Residential Pathway apprenticeship.

What was happening in your career before starting your apprenticeship?

Before starting this apprenticeship, I worked as a Teaching Assistant. I had already completed a Level 3 qualification. This gave me a foundation in education and support work; but I wanted to progress further into a residential care career path within the health and social care sector. I knew a professional development apprenticeship would get me there.

What made you choose this particular programme with The Childcare Company?

I chose this course because, as a Health Worker, holding a Level 4 qualification is essential. I wanted to meet the requirements of my role, grow professionally, and make sure I had the knowledge needed to support the people I work with in the best way.

Apprenticeship highlights and challenges

What stood out for you as a highlight of your apprenticeship experience?

Everything about the course was amazing. Working with my Development Coach was particularly valuable. She consistently linked the learning to my practical work, which helped everything make sense. This apprenticeship has been a huge eye opener and has transformed my insight into the way I approach tasks. I genuinely feel more educated, aware, and confident in my abilities. It really has been the best UK early years apprenticeship experience I could have asked for.

Did you encounter any challenges during your learning journey?

The only challenge I faced was scheduling sessions due to my workload. I wasn’t always able to attend masterclasses. So, I started submitting my timetable in advance and planning sessions that worked around my commitments. This helped me stay organised and kept me on track. She was also really supportive in helping me prepare for my End-point Assessment (EPA).

Apprenticeship experience and impact

Looking back over your experience, how do you feel the apprenticeship has helped you?

This apprenticeship has helped me in every area. I feel extremely confident now. I’m no longer shy about discussing topics at work. I can link theory to practice, which makes me feel more equipped and knowledgeable in my role. I now feel ready to do more outreach work, where communication and deeper discussion are key. Overall, this course has had a very positive impact on me personally and professionally.

Which of your new skills do you notice yourself using the most in your day-to-day work?

Everything.

In what ways has your apprenticeship changed you for the better?

So many ways! Not only am I a much more confident professional, but I communicate much more easily. I have some new responsibilities, which my employer says I’ve taken in my stride. I now earn a higher salary too.

How employers benefit from apprenticeships

From your perspective, how would you say your organisation has benefited from you completing the apprenticeship?

My employer has benefited because I now have both the theory and the practical understanding behind my work. I can deal with situations more confidently and solve problems more effectively. This has improved the way I work every day, which has had a positive impact on my team and the service we provide.

Apprenticeship advice and reflection

What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting this apprenticeship?

I would tell them to give it a try. The staff are very supportive, and the course helps you see your work in a new way. My advice is to link what you learn to your daily practice, because it really helps your knowledge grow. It can be stressful at times, but it is definitely worth it.

How would you sum up your apprenticeship journey overall?

I feel empowered. As childcare apprenticeship career progression goes, I couldn’t have asked for better. I’ve levelled up to a higher position; my language, skills and my daily practice has improved, and now feels more professional. This apprenticeship has made me feel more confident as a person. I am proud that I took this opportunity. I feel that my voice is now heard at work.

Why people choose The Childcare Company

Zhour’s enthusiasm is infectious. The Childcare Company seems to have reawakened a passion for the work, and a keenness to apply new skill where people need it most.

The Childcare Company’s coach-led approach ensures:

• Qualified, capable staff
• High quality care delivery
• Retention of talent in teams

It’s a fact that people stay where they feel valued. Apprenticeships promote high levels of job satisfaction, which significantly reduces turnover. Employers can also rest assured that the outcomes for their service users improve for the better as well.

Zhour’s experience is one of many success stories shared by our learners. You can empower your team members in the same way, and futureproof your childcare teams, setting everyone up for success. All you have to do, is be more ‘Zhour’ and ‘give it a try’.

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.