Early Years Educator (Apprentice) in Exeter inExeter PUBLISHED FRI 4 APR 2025 Jump to job information section

The role of Apprentice Early Years Educator at First Steps Nursery will support candidates in obtaining a qualification in Early Years Education whilst being supported by a knowledgeable team of mentors, rated outstanding by Ofsted again in November 2022. What better foundations could there be, to begin a career in Childcare!

For more detail about the main duties of this role, please see the job description section below. As a key member of the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, you will be joining an exceptional team working together to help our patients to stay healthy, when they need it most.

About us

For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities please click the link below.

More detail about the role

As an apprentice in Early Years, you will join our team of 'Ofsted Outstanding Educators' to support the development of the Children in our Care who range from 3 months - 4 years old.

You will receive support and guidance from a fantastically knowledgeable team of mentors as you undertake a qualification in Early Years Education.

Our accredited provider will support you to gain a recognised Early Years Childcare qualification, supporting you to develop and understand Child Development via a mixture of online classes and in-person practical assessments. You will gain experience via a 'hands on' role at our Nursery, allowing you to learn the practical side of the role and embed your knowledge and increase confidence within your delivery of high quality Care and Education.

All of this, alongside one of the highest employer apprenticeship salaries on offer to reflect the value of our workforce and the high quality of care and education that they provide everyday, to the Children in our Care.

Please note the salary information below:

Level 3 Apprenticeship: Paid Annex 21 - 70% of top of Band 3 year one and 75% of top of Band 3 year two. We have four positions available.

Working Pattern:

18+ years - 37.5 hrs per week 08:00 - 18:00 with a 40min lunch break across 4 days (one of which will be at Exeter College).

Under 18's - 32hrs per week across 4 days (one of which will be at Exeter College) either 08:00 - 17:00 or 09:00 - 18:00 with an hour lunch break.

Interview Date: To be confirmed

For further information please contact: Zoe Arthurs; Childcare Services Manager on or

This is a fixed term contract for 24 months. For current NHS employees this post could be a secondment opportunity.

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Preference will be given to staff with Priority and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.

Benefits

We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team.

This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we'll help you get there.

Looking after you is important to us.

We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies.

If you're starting out in the NHS, you'll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays.

You'll benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups.

Salary is not the only financial benefit

You'll have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers.

You will also have access to other benefits including:

National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.

Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter

Car lease schemes.

The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK).

Cycle to work scheme

These are just a few of the benefits available if the role is something you are interested in, we'd love to hear from you.