She chose to study an FA to get a head start in this exciting industry, allowing her to gain an insight into the everyday routine and responsibilities of a Nursery practitioner. Erin said, “It really benefited me, and I would totally recommend a Foundation Apprenticeship to anyone who is interested in the opportunity.”.
While completing the course Erin was considering her options for the next steps in her career. The traditional route to higher education just didn’t seem right for her saying, “In my last year of high school I was thinking I really wasn’t ready for attending university. It was something that I feared, meeting new people, travelling to such a big place, the responsibility, and overall just thinking that the work would be too difficult to complete. That’s when I started to look more into the apprenticeship framework. I felt so much more comfortable with this route and it seemed a lot more achievable to me”.
Erin is successfully gained a Modern Apprenticeship within a local private nursery and is now hoping to become a qualified Nursery Practitioner as early as June 2022. Speaking of the experience she said,
“I am thoroughly enjoying my position as a Modern Apprentice as I am getting hands on experience and getting paid while learning. I enjoy the practical side of learning and get a lot of support with my coursework.”
Having the Foundation Apprenticeship under her belt put her in a prime position when apply for the opportunity; “My CV really stood out from others as it showed that I had previous knowledge. It also demonstrated my commitment to completing a course and that I had shown a lot of interest in my coursework. My time during placement helped me manage my time between school and my hands on experience in a different environment which allowed me to be able to understand how things work in a nursery setting. This allows employers to acknowledge your hard work and engagement to the course and job.”
Speaking about her progression through the Apprenticeship framework, Erin said,
“The FA prepared me for the MA by allowing me to work on my communication skills and my time management. Studying for my Highers, keeping on top of College coursework, and managing my time in placement helped me mature and realise that it was a big step into my career.”
She continued, “My communication skills developed as I was able to build relationships with many lecturers, staff, and children in the nursery. I am now able to develop trust and relationships further with different families in my work.”
Reflecting on her chosen career path, Erin said, “There are many different pathways to becoming a Nursery Practitioner such as university, college, and apprenticeships. However, I feel that the apprenticeship route allows much more practical experience and ties in perfectly with the coursework. Every individuals career path will be different and everyone will struggle at some points, this shouldn’t put anyone off in trying to become their dream job. Take it one day at a time and don’t be afraid to ask for the help/support you need.”
We wish Erin the best of luck with her Modern Apprenticeship and can’t wait to see what the future holds for her!