Your future. Your pace.
Your apprenticeship.
Choosing an apprenticeship is a big step. It should feel right for you and where you want to go next. At Busy Bees, you can start where you are and grow at your own pace, with support to help you choose the right level and move forward.
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Early Years Practitioners work in a range of settings, including nurseries, pre-schools, children's centres, schools, hospitals, home-based provision and out-of-school clubs. They help deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), supporting the learning, development and care of children from birth to five in safe, stimulating indoor and outdoor environments.
During this Level 2 Early Years Practitioner apprenticeship, you'll work directly with children every day, supporting activities, play and learning experiences. As part of a professional team, you'll help ensure children's wellbeing and development under the guidance of experienced Early Years Educators, teachers and other qualified professionals.
The apprenticeship at a glance
Entry requirements
- Be able to gain a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
- Be willing and able to access a Busy Bees training centre on occasion throughout your course to aid your learning
Apprenticeship Assessment (previously EPA)
- A professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
- Direct observation in practice with questioning
On successful completion, apprentices are graded: Pass or Distinction.
Full details of the Early Years Practitioner Level 2 apprenticeship
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Find the answerEarly Years Educators are skilled professionals who help young children learn, develop and thrive in safe, nurturing environments. They work in a variety of settings, including nurseries, pre-schools, children's centres, schools and childminding services.
This Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship develops the knowledge and practical skills needed to deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). You'll support the learning, development and care of children from birth to five, while working independently or as part of a professional team.
The apprenticeship at a glance
Entry requirements
- Be able to gain a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate
- Ideally hold a Level 2 qualification or equivalent
- Hold a Level 2, or be working towards a Level 2, in Functional Skills
- Be willing and able to access a Busy Bees training centre on occasions throughout your course to aid your learning
Apprenticeship Assessment (previously EPA)
- A professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
- Direct observation in practice with questions
On successful completion, apprentices are graded: Pass, Merit or Distinction.
Full details of the Early Years Educator Level 3 apprenticeship
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Find the answerEarly Years Lead Practitioners work in a wide range of settings, including nurseries, pre-schools, schools, hospitals, social care and local authority services. They lead high-quality, play-based learning, champion inclusive practice, and support the learning and development of children from birth to eight.
Working closely with families, colleagues and other professionals, they lead the day-to-day delivery of early years provision while guiding and developing other practitioners. This Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship equips you with the leadership, knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in this rewarding role.
The apprenticeship at a glance
Entry requirements
- Access to a lead practitioner role within an early years setting is essential
- Apprentices without Level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this before the End-Point Assessment (Busy Bees will support you to gain the functional skills needed)
- Be able to gain a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
- Be willing and able to access a Busy Bees training centre on occasions throughout your course to aid your learning
- Complete a written initial assessment before enrolment
Apprenticeship Assessment (previously EPA)
- A professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
- Observation with questions
- Case study with report, presentation and questioning
On successful completion, apprentices are graded: Pass, Merit or Distinction.
Full details of the Early Years Lead Practitioner Level 5 apprenticeship
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Find the answerProduction Chefs work in fast-paced kitchens across schools, hospitals, early years settings and care homes. Working as part of a team, they prepare high-quality meals using standardised recipes while maintaining excellent organisation, accuracy and a focus on sustainability.
This Level 2 Production Chef apprenticeship is ideal for trainee and junior chefs looking to build their skills, gain a recognised qualification and earn while they learn. Through hands-on experience and expert support, you'll develop the knowledge and confidence to succeed in a professional kitchen.
The apprenticeship at a glance
Entry requirements
- Be able to access a Busy Bees training centre throughout your course to aid your learning
- Be able to gain a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate
Apprenticeship Assessment (previously EPA)
- A professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
- Observation
On successful completion, apprentices are graded: Pass, Merit or Distinction.
Apply now
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Find the answerSenior Production Chefs lead kitchen teams or support the Head Chef in larger settings. They oversee the day-to-day running of the kitchen, ensuring consistent food quality, safety and compliance with legislation.
Working in roles such as Head Chef, Second Chef, Kitchen Manager or Supervisor, they manage food production, maintain high standards and support their team to deliver an efficient, high-quality catering service.
The apprenticeship at a glance
Entry requirements
- At least 12 months' experience in the hospitality industry, or a completed Intermediate Level 2 Apprenticeship in Hospitality, Licensed Hospitality, or Catering and Professional Chefs
- Be working as a supervisor or first-line manager
- Be willing and able to access a Busy Bees training centre on occasions throughout your course to aid your learning
- Be able to gain a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
Apprenticeship Assessment (previously EPA)
- A professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
- Direct observation in practice
- 90 minute on demand multiple choice test
On successful completion, apprentices are graded: Pass, Merit or Distinction.
Full details of the Senior Production Chef Level 3 apprenticeship
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Find the answerScottish Apprenticeships
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This is our Scottish pathway for people supporting the care, learning and development of children and young people in early years and childcare settings. Delivered to Scottish standards, it leads to an SVQ in Social Services (Children and Young People) at SCQF Level 7.
You will work directly with children every day — supporting play, learning and wellbeing — while building the knowledge and practical skills recognised across Scotland's social services workforce, with support from experienced practitioners.
The apprenticeship at a glance
Entry requirements
- Be able to gain satisfactory PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) scheme membership
- Be working or volunteering in an eligible early years or childcare setting in Scotland
Assessment
- Assessment of practice in the workplace
- A portfolio of evidence built throughout your training
On successful completion, apprentices are assessed as: competent against the national occupational standards.
Apply now
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Find the answerThis is our advanced Scottish pathway for those taking on greater responsibility for the care, learning and development of children and young people. Delivered to Scottish standards, it leads to an SVQ in Social Services (Children and Young People) at SCQF Level 9.
You will help lead and support practice in an early years or childcare setting — guiding colleagues, shaping high-quality provision and deepening your professional knowledge — with support from experienced practitioners.
The apprenticeship at a glance
Entry requirements
- Be able to gain satisfactory PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) scheme membership
- Ideally hold a relevant SCQF Level 7 qualification or equivalent experience
- Be working in an eligible early years or childcare setting in Scotland, with some leadership responsibility
Assessment
- Assessment of practice in the workplace
- A portfolio of evidence built throughout your training
On successful completion, apprentices are assessed as: competent against the national occupational standards.
Apply now
Take your first step into a rewarding career with hands-on experience, friendly mentors, and a team that’s got your back.
Start my applicationGot a question?
Not sure which apprenticeship is right for you? Want to understand more about job roles here at Busy Bees?
Find the answerGrowing through apprenticeships with Busy Bees
Thinking about a career in childcare? Our apprentices share how they’ve grown their skills, confidence, and futures with Busy Bees.
Real stories. Real journeys. Real impact.
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Take your first step into a rewarding career with hands-on experience, friendly mentors, and a team that’s got your back.
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