About The Role
Do you enjoy working with people, families and children and want to make a difference?
Would you like to be a part of a mixed team with the opportunity to learn from a range of professionals?
If so then read on…
Our apprenticeships combine working in a great job, with training, development and a competitive salary. You will be given dedicated time in your working week to focus on your studies. You will also have access to a network of colleagues from within the organisation and tutors to support your learning.
The Early Years Educator apprenticeship consists of a 24‑month opportunity to learn and to provide support to the Bright Start South team. We are responsible for providing high‑quality stay and play sessions for families with children age 0‑5. Your duties will include working with early childhood practitioners (and when appropriate parents) to plan, deliver and evaluate stimulating, safe and friendly play and creative activities for Stay & Play sessions in our different venues.
You will gain an understanding of the work of the team and will work in a supported learning environment whilst working towards a nationally recognised Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship.
How to Apply
- Be aged 16 or above
- Be an Islington resident, Islington care leaver or Islington school leaver in the last 12 months
Course Entry Requirements
- Not already have a qualification at a similar level or above in this apprenticeship subject
- Do not have extensive skills or experience in this apprenticeship subject
- Pass the course entry tests for example in Maths and English
Closing Date: Wednesday 22nd July 2026 at 23:59
Expected Interview Date: Monday 10th August 2026
Apprenticeship Start Date: September 2026
The Job
- Work with your team and parents to develop, play and learning activities to provide a friendly, safe and stimulating play and learning environment
- Take responsibility for ensuring children are safe (training will be provided)
- Participate in play activities such as ‘stay and play’ sessions
- Support to plan and evaluate play activities
- Support to update session plans and observation notes on the activities
- Work with the wider team including health colleagues to support child development
Training and Development
- Complete a Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship qualification
- Study Maths and English if you have not already achieved a GCSE or Level 2 equivalent
- Participate in the Council’s apprenticeship network and various development activities
- Have access to a buddy/mentor
After you have successfully completed your apprenticeship, you will have gained valuable workplace experience and attained your Level 3 qualification. This will improve your chances of finding work within the Council, with other employers or help you move on to a higher‑level apprenticeship.
Contact Information
Eva Stokes
Early Childhood Practitioner
eva.stokes@islington.gov.uk
For an informal discussion about apprenticeships at Islington Council, please contact the Early Careers and Talent Team by emailing apprenticeships@islington.gov.uk. If you are an Islington resident who would like support with your application, please contact the iWork Team on 020 7527 3559 or email islingtonworking@islington.gov.uk.
Our Offer to You
- Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service
- A range of flexible working arrangements to maintain a healthy work‑life balance, as well as a 35‑hour working week
- Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential
- Competitive pay and a commitment to paying all staff the London Living Wage at minimum
- Excellent local government pension scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships
- Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more!
Pre‑Employment Checks
- Proof of address
- Evidence of any name changes (if applicable)
- Right to work in the UK
- Overseas criminal record check (if applicable)
- Satisfactory references
- Occupational Health clearance
- Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
- DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts are subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
The post is subject to an enhanced DBS check with children barred list, qualifications check and 3/5 years referencing.
Disability Confident Scheme
Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria and we are committed to providing support to applicants who request reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process and throughout their career with us.
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