When Morven Park Primary School first welcomed Paige Skelham into the setting, it quickly became clear that she had the commitment, enthusiasm and potential to build a successful career in education. What began as a volunteering opportunity developed into a rewarding apprenticeship journey that has benefited both Paige and the school.
For Assistant Headteacher Leanne Doherty, the decision to enrol Paige onto an Early Years Educator Level 3 apprenticeship with Heart of England Training (HOET) was a natural next step.
“Our apprentice initially joined us through a personal connection and began by volunteering within the setting. We quickly recognised her potential, commitment, and suitability for working in education. Enrolling her on an apprenticeship programme felt like a natural progression and has proven to be beneficial both for her professional development and for our school.”
A Positive Partnership with HOET
Throughout the apprenticeship, Morven Park Primary School found the support from HOET to be responsive, informative and reliable.
Leanne describes the partnership as a highly positive experience, highlighting the regular communication and support provided throughout the programme.
“Communication has been clear and consistent throughout, and I have felt well informed about my apprentice’s progress at every stage. Any queries I have raised have been responded to promptly, with informative and helpful guidance. This level of support has ensured a smooth and effective partnership.” [Testimony…employers | Word]
The school particularly valued the accessibility of HOET’s training team and their commitment to supporting both employer and apprentice.
“What particularly stands out is the accessibility and approachability of the training team, who actively engage with both apprentices and employers, ensuring a supportive and collaborative experience.”
Making a Difference in the Classroom
As Paige progressed through her apprenticeship, the impact of her learning became increasingly evident within the school environment. According to Leanne, Paige brought valuable up-to-date knowledge and practical skills into the setting, positively influencing both pupils and colleagues.
Over time, her confidence, independence and professionalism continued to grow.
“Over the past year, the progress and confidence demonstrated by our apprentice have been exceptional. She has successfully translated her learning into practice, supporting pupils effectively and contributing positively to the classroom environment.”
One of the school’s key priorities has been supporting children’s communication and language development. Paige’s training enabled her to make a meaningful contribution towards this goal through effective support and interventions for pupils.
Developing Skills That Matter
Leanne has witnessed first-hand how an apprenticeship can equip staff with the skills, knowledge and professional behaviours needed to succeed in an educational setting.
She notes that Paige consistently demonstrated strong interpersonal skills, built positive relationships with children, supported pupils with a wide range of needs and communicated confidently with parents and carers.
“The programme prepares apprentices extremely well for their roles. It provides them with a realistic understanding of working within a school environment, alongside the practical skills and professional behaviours required to succeed.”
These qualities have not only supported Paige’s development but have also strengthened the wider team, contributing positively to staff morale and productivity.
Learning While Earning
For Paige, the apprenticeship route provided the perfect opportunity to gain hands-on experience while developing her knowledge through structured training.
“I chose an apprenticeship route to enable me to learn on the job and learn from colleagues within an early years setting. Working daily within an early years setting alongside my apprenticeship course meant that I could directly apply my knowledge and see how it can be implemented in practice.”
She also praised the support she received from HOET throughout her apprenticeship.
“I would recommend HOET to anyone beginning their apprentice journey. I have enjoyed working with my tutor and each of our regular meetings. Everyone I have contacted through HOET responds quickly and effectively and has always answered any questions or queries I have had.”
Having now successfully completed her apprenticeship, Paige is a strong advocate for the apprenticeship route.
“Go for it! My only regret doing an apprenticeship is not doing it sooner!”
Why Schools Should Consider an Early Years Apprentice
Morven Park Primary School’s experience demonstrates the value that apprentices can bring to an educational setting. By investing in emerging talent, schools can develop skilled, committed professionals who understand the needs of their organisation while making an immediate contribution to pupils and staff.
Through the partnership between Morven Park Primary School, Paige Skelham and Heart of England Training, the apprenticeship has delivered benefits for everyone involved: supporting professional development, strengthening classroom provision and helping to build the future workforce within education.
For schools looking to grow their teams, develop future talent and make a lasting impact on pupil outcomes, employing an Early Years apprentice can be an excellent place to start.
