Getting to know our customers

To celebrate 'Get to Know Your Customers Day' we've spoken with a few of our most promising learners, to find out more about their career so far. Get to Know Your Customers Day reminds businesses to reach out to patrons and get to know them better, so we wanted to find out how our apprentices view their qualifications. Zara, Katie and Jake were all previous winners of our Learner of the Quarter award during 2019, so we felt they would make excellent candidates to talk with.

How did you hear about an apprenticeship at BB Training?

Katie: I heard about an apprenticeship with BB training when I was studying towards my level 2 Childcare at College at the same time as doing work experience at Busy Bees.

Jake: Through my Nursery Manager. I was a support worker at the time, my manager said they did apprenticeships at Busy Bees and I was keen to start the course.

Why did you choose an apprenticeship?

Katie: I chose the apprenticeship as I really enjoyed my work experience and it definitely made me want to work in the nursery full time!

Jake: I really enjoyed working in childcare and wanted to improve my knowledge and skills in the job role.

What drew you to a career in childcare?

Zara: Nurturing young minds - every day is different and it's rewarding.

Katie: The best thing about work for me is supporting babies and children to learn new things and watch them progress! 

Jake: I really liked the values and goals of a child practitioner. I wanted to be a role model and make a difference to children and young people's lives and development.

What is the best thing about working as an apprentice?

Zara: Support is given from the Assessment Team and the Management Team guides you whilst you are learning new skills

Jake: Expanding my knowledge and developing new skills. Looking for new inspiration and creative ideas across other nurseries to enhance the children’s learning and development.

What challenges have you faced whilst working as an apprentice?

Zara: Time Management - Learning to complete your qualification alongside your job, although they go together, it can be challenging to find a balance.

Jake: Balancing time between full-time work, coursework for the apprenticeship and maintaining a social life. Allocating time throughout the week to complete the coursework.

Do you feel part of the nursery team?

Zara: Yes, as I was already employed within the setting.

Katie:  I definitely feel part of the nursery team, the manager and staff are great!

Jake: Yes, we all work as a team and work together to ensure children are receiving the best care and are provided with rich learning activities/environments.

What are your future career plans?

Zara: Since completing my Management Level 3, I have been promoted to Assistant Manager, I look forward to continuing to climb the career ladder.

Jake: To eventually look into courses that are associated with counseling, therapy or social work. If there were opportunities in Busy Bees around that sort of field or if someone feels I would suit a job role I would consider taking that opportunity.

Thanks to Zara, Katie and Jake; it was wonderful to hear you are all enjoying and thriving in your roles, we wish you all the best for the future and will continue to work and support you through the rest of your apprenticeships!