You can start an application for selected apprenticeships before you secure a job in a school or setting. The placement team will then help you look for a suitable employer, while you also contact local schools or settings.
Which apprenticeships can you apply for without a place?
You can apply before securing a job for the following apprenticeships:
- Level 2 Early Years Practitioner (EYP)
- Level 3 Early Years Educator (EYE)
- Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner (EYLP)
- Level 3 Teaching Assistant (TA)
- Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant
1. Register your interest and apply
Attend an online webinar to learn more about Early Years apprenticeships and their eligibility requirements.
Apply for your chosen course through the relevant Best Practice Network page:
2. Complete the initial screening form and call
After your application is received, you will receive an email inviting you to complete an initial screening form. The form allows the placement team to start looking for an employer for you.
You will also receive a curriculum vitae (CV) template. Complete the template and return it to the placement team.
3. Look for an employer
Read https://outstandingleaders1786493057.zendesk.com/knowledge/articles/29807948857884/en-gb?brand_id=29536224336796 for guidance on approaching local schools and settings.
Contact nurseries or schools in your area and check their vacancies pages for suitable roles.
The placement team will also contact settings within your preferred travel distance. When the team finds a vacancy, it will send your CV to the employer for review.
4. Prepare for an interview or work trial
Apprenticeship roles are highly competitive, so it is essential to prepare carefully when you are offered an interview or work trial. Review interview questions and interview guidance before attending. [VERIFY: add the intended interview preparation resources because the links or text are incomplete in the source]
If you are unsuccessful at an interview, the placement team will support you in finding another vacancy and provide additional interview support.
5. Get more experience if needed
If you need more experience while looking for an apprenticeship role, you can:
- Ask the placement team to refer you to Best Practice Network's sister company, Protocol Education, which can support you with paid agency work while the team looks for an apprenticeship role.
- Volunteer in local settings to gain the experience you need before your course.
- Apply for unqualified practitioner roles to gain valuable experience in the meantime.