Childcare Modern Apprenticeships

Working with children is a career like no other. You have the chance to shape a young persons life, inspire their creative thought process and teach them skills they will use for life!

In a typical day you will be involved in:

• Setting up the play room for a fun filled day of learning

• Implement planned learning experiences in line with the Curriculum for Excellence

• Keep children safe and well at all times

• Assist with snack, lunches and dinners

• Play outdoors in all weather!

Places you can work as an Early Years Apprentice:

• Private, Local Authority or Voluntary nursery

• Breakfast clubs and afterschool care

• Play worker

Why Childcare?

A career in the Childcare sector can be extremely rewarding. You can make a positive difference helping young people learn and develop early in their lives. Don’t just take our work for it, have a look at our Success Stories to see real Apprentice stories.

What qualifications do I need?

Before we answer that, it’s good to understand what level you are about to undertake when you start a Modern Apprenticeship in childcare. You will be working towards the SVQ 3 Social Services Children & Young People qualification. This award is at SCQF Level 7, to put it another way, it’s the equivalent to an Advanced Higher level subject at school. This means we would be looking for National 5 level qualifications at entry. However, we do consider all applicants regardless of level. If you have formal experience in a nursery or childcare setting, this will support your application.

For more information on SCQF levels and the qualification structure in Scotland you can visiting the SCQF website by clicking this link - SCQF Website link.

If you have achieved a Foundation Apprenticeship in childcare, you will be guaranteed an interview with us. Make sure to highlight this in your application.

Do I get paid?

Yes! A Modern Apprenticeship is a real job with a real employer who will really pay you. Earnings for a childcare apprentice can vary depending on your employer. Apprentices typically start on the lower wage (Apprenticeship rate), which increases as they gain more experience and skills. From the 1st April 2025 the Apprenticeship rate is increasing to £7.55 per hour. This is the minimum your employer can pay you. Read our blog for further information.

What age do I have to be?

To start a childcare apprenticeship, you typically need to be at least 16 years old and not in full-time education. You must have reached statutory school leaving age to start a childcare apprenticeship. There is no upper age limit, making it a great option for those looking to change careers or return to work after a break. However, the funding changes for those aged 20 years and older. Speak to us about your options.

How long does it take to complete?

Our childcare apprenticeships usually take between 10 to 18 months to complete. On average, our Apprentices complete the qualification within 12 months. There is no set timescale to achieving the Apprenticeship and everyone works at their own pace and to their strengths. You will spend time getting to know your assessor and they will become familiar with your learning style. Don’t just take our word for it, listen to our Graduate Peyvand’s story as she confirms the excellent relationship with her assessor.

What kind of support and training will I receive?

During your apprenticeship, you'll receive support from our highly experienced assessors. You'll have regular training sessions, both on the job and through our in-centre training days, to help you develop the skills and knowledge needed for your role. We understand that life throws all sorts of challenges our way at time. We are here to support you no matter what supports you require along the way

Do I have to be employed?

Yes, you do have to be employed within a nursery, after-school care facility or a similar setting to work towards achieving the Modern Apprenticeship. We can support you to find work within the Childcare sector and then we can get started. If you are coming to us and already in a relevant job role then we can start straight away.

I’ve never been for an interview, what is the process?

Our interviews are relaxed and informal. We find this helps to encourage conversation and explore your skills to work in the sector. We offer interviews both in person and on Microsoft Teams.

Where can this qualification take me?

Completing a childcare apprenticeship opens up various career opportunities. You could become a qualified early years practitioner, or progress to roles like room leader or nursery manager. Some apprentices also choose to further their education and pursue higher level qualifications in Early Childhood Education progressing into careers such as teaching. Check out Childcare Careers Scotland’s website for more information.

If you still have question please just get in touch. You can find all of our contact information on the Contact Us page. We look forward to hearing from you.