APPRENTICE EARLY YEARS ASSISTANT

Thank you for your interest in the position of Apprentice Early Years Assistant at GLO Childcare and Education, part of YMCA Cheshire.

YMCA Cheshire is excited to be opening a new 79-place childcare setting in Crewe. GLO Childcare and Education will provide high-quality childcare and education for children aged 3 months to 5 years, giving them the best start in life. Guided by our family work approach, we place the child and family at the heart of everything we do.

The Role

We are seeking an enthusiastic and caring Apprentice Early Years Assistant to support the day-to-day running of one of our nursery rooms at GLO Childcare and Education, based at the Apollo Campus in Crewe.

This apprenticeship offers an exciting opportunity to gain practical experience while working towards a Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years qualification. You will work alongside experienced colleagues to provide high-quality childcare and education within a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment where children can learn, grow and thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Room Leader and Deputy Room Leader with the day-to-day running of the nursery room
• Help provide a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment for children aged 3 months to 5 years
• Support GLO Childcare and Education in securing and sustaining Ofsted registration
• Work alongside colleagues to plan and deliver engaging learning experiences in line with the EYFS
• Support children’s individual learning, development and daily routines
• Act as a keyworker for a group of children when appropriate
• Build positive relationships with parents and carers and help keep them informed of their child’s progress
• Maintain effective communication and contribute to a positive team environment
• Develop your knowledge of early years practices, legislation and current curricula
• Maintain accurate records and assist with administration required by regulatory bodies
• Support risk assessments for activities, equipment and the nursery environment
• Attend team meetings, training and apprenticeship learning sessions
• Follow YMCA Cheshire’s policies relating to safeguarding, Health and Safety, confidentiality, equality, diversity and inclusion
• Contribute to continuous improvement and agreed quality assurance standards

About You

We’re looking for someone who:

• Believes every child deserves the best possible start in life
• Is passionate about working with children and supporting their development
• Is willing to work towards a Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years qualification or equivalent
• Has good written and verbal communication skills
• Can relate positively to children and adults
• Is organised, dependable and attentive to detail
• Can manage their time and prioritise responsibilities
• Can work independently and as part of a team
• Has genuine respect and regard for children and families
• Is committed to achieving positive outcomes for children
• Understands and respects confidentiality
• Is committed to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion
• Is supportive of YMCA Cheshire’s mission, vision and values
• Has an energetic and positive “can do” attitude

Previous experience in an early years setting is desirable but not essential. Knowledge of the EYFS, early years legislation, safeguarding and the SEN Code of Practice would also be beneficial. A Paediatric First Aid certificate and good IT skills would be advantageous.

Why Join Us?

At YMCA Cheshire, you’ll become part of a passionate organisation committed to creating better futures for children, families and communities.

This apprenticeship will give you the opportunity to gain a recognised early years qualification while developing valuable practical skills within a brand-new childcare setting. You’ll be supported by experienced colleagues as you learn how to provide safe, inclusive and engaging care for young children.

You’ll also benefit from a comprehensive training package, Employee Assistance Programme, health cashback plan, pension contribution, life assurance, conference opportunities, onsite gym, café discount and much more.

This is a permanent, term-time role, working 30 hours per week across five days, Monday to Friday, for 40 weeks of the year.

The salary is £11,553.83 to £12,275.94 per annum, inclusive of holiday pay and dependent on the level of Early Years qualification being undertaken. This is equivalent to £8.48 to £9.01 per hour.

The role reports to the Room Leader and is subject to the successful opening of the setting and subsequent Ofsted registration.

Any offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check.

If you are excited to begin a career in early years education and passionate about helping children learn, grow and thrive, we would love to hear from you.

Applications should be submitted by 5.00 pm on Monday 12 October 2026 through the GOV.UK Find an Apprenticeship service.

Alternatively, you can email your CV to apprenticeships@ccsw.ac.uk, clearly stating which vacancy you are applying for, or telephone the Apprenticeship Team on 01270 654638.

Interviews are expected to take place on Wednesday 21 October 2026, with an anticipated start date of Tuesday 1 December 2026.

Please download the Candidate Pack to view the full job description, person specification, employment terms and benefits.