Childcare is a great step for teenagers

The 11 apprentices are primarily from Sandy and Dunstable and they have taken their first steps to becoming qualified early years professionals.

The scheme is being supported by Central Beds Council’s Children’s Workforce Development and Adult and Community Learning Teams plus local nurseries, pre-schools and lower schools.

The apprentices are all aged between 16 and 18. They are undertaking the nationally recognised CACHE Level 2 Certificate for the Children and Young People’s Workforce, as well as learning functional skills such as maths, English and ICT.

Once they have completed their apprenticeships they will be able to use their skills to find jobs in early years and social care. The apprentices will receive most of their training in the workplace, working with professionals.