After completing my Level 5 Apprenticeship between November 2022 and June 2024, I embraced a new opportunity as an early years trainer at Little Barn Owls Nursery and Farm School, a distinguished nursery group renowned for its Reggio Emilia-inspired approach, situated in West Sussex. As a member of the Training Academy, I contribute to a pioneering and innovative method of professional development within the early years sector. Currently, I mentor 30 qualified educators across four diverse settings, offering support as they use the interactive playbook designed to enhance their skills in real time, all while effectively managing their ratios.
This role enables me to share my passion and enhance outcomes for children. With over 20 years of experience in various settings, including a pack-away nursery, in a school, Forest School holiday club, in a yurt, and a not-for-profit nursery, I have developed a diverse skillset and numerous strengths. My goal is to mentor staff by providing open and constructive feedback, helping them recognise their strengths, and offering strategies for improvement in a supportive, inspiring and compassionate manner.
When I'm not working, I cherish spending time with my two grown daughters and family. I have a twin brother and a twin brother and sister. My husband and I have transformed our bungalow and garden. I find joy in nature, whether it's cycling or walking by the sea, as I reside in Worthing, West Sussex. Additionally, I enjoy sketching, colouring and attending painting nights, where a professional artist provides step-by-step instructions to help us create beautiful pieces of art.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO DO THIS PARTICULAR ROUTE?
Pursuing the apprenticeship route allowed me to maintain my position as deputy nursery manager while acquiring qualifications that complemented my experience. My assessor provided invaluable support, enabling me to progress at my own pace and take charge of my learning. The fact that I enrolled in an apprenticeship in my mid-50s demonstrates that anyone can embark on this journey.
During my apprenticeship, my assessor employed an innovative approach to my coursework. We discussed the daily challenges of managing a setting with 180 children and 63 staff, as well as my current workload. In response, my assessor assigned units that directly correlated with my tasks. For instance, when I was involved in inducting ten new staff members, I dedicated time to creating a new induction checklist, ensuring our onboarding process was robust and compliant with statutory guidelines. This effectively used my six hours per week, positively impacting the setting.
WHY DID YOU CHOSE TO PURSUE STUDYING EARLY YEARS?
Since I began volunteering at my daughter's pre-school by making toast, I have pursued my Higher Level Teaching Assistant Status, and achieved Levels 2, 3, 4 and 5 in Early Years. Additionally, I earned my Level 3 Forest School Leader and Wild Beach Leader certifications. Essentially, my journey of continuous learning has fuelled my passion for education!
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST THING THAT YOU HAVE LEARNT THROUGH THIS EXPERIENCE?
I can confidently say that my professional growth has been significantly enhanced through my participation in the apprenticeship programme, as noted by my assessor, who said, ‘Sarah has been nothing but a joy to teach, she has developed so much in her writing skills and the knowledge she has shared and gained has been invaluable to both herself and the setting.’ I was pleasantly surprised by the significant progress I made in essay writing, and I discovered immense joy in reflecting on my knowledge. My portfolio included an ‘Independent Project on Exploring Special Educational Needs in our Setting’, and a case study on cooking as a context for development and learning in the EYFS; two subjects close to my heart.
WHAT HAVE BEEN THE HIGHLIGHTS?
Being shortlisted for the Nursery World Awards on the same day I passed my Level 5 was an unforgettable experience! My assessor nominated me, and I was honoured to be shortlisted for the Apprentice of the Year 2024 award. This recognition significantly boosted my confidence, and combined with my Level 5 achievement, it prompted me to consider my next career move. After two years of dedicated work, both in my professional role and during my personal time, my efforts were acknowledged through the attainment of my apprenticeship. The early years sector truly deserves more recognition for the invaluable work being done.
WHAT HAS CHALLENGED YOUR THINKING/EXPECTATIONS ABOUT EARLY CHILDHOOD THE MOST?
Reflection is essential in my profession, and I take great pride in my expertise. Working in early years is not just a job; it is a calling. As a mentor and trainer, I offer educators valuable guidance, create opportunities for sharing knowledge, and foster a sense of worth within a supportive community. It is crucial for the sector to retain its staff and provide them with the support needed to thrive in their vital roles.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER STUDENTS/APPRENTICES STUDYING OR WORKING IN THE SECTOR?
My advice is to embrace lifelong learning, taking one step at a time. If you ever feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to seek help. Remember, there are no bad days; instead, cherish the ‘glimmers’ and small victories, as positivity is contagious!
The greatest joy comes from witnessing a staff member navigate a challenging situation with grace or transforming their attitude towards it. I make a conscious effort to recognise excellence and express my pride in those moments. While it's easy to highlight the less favourable instances, it's truly valuable to acknowledge the exceptional ways staff fulfil their roles. Observing an educator who is attuned to the needs of children is heartwarming. Hearing them engage in running commentary and use rich language is not only inspiring but, in my view, invaluable in their lifelong learning journey.
which figures in the sector do you find most inspiring?
I am continually inspired by a sector that faces numerous challenges yet consistently prioritises children in its decision-making processes.
HRH The Princess of Wales, who has described the early years project as her ‘life's work’, has initiated a campaign to raise awareness of the critical importance of the first five years of a child's life. The Shaping Us campaign is based on research from the Centre for Early Childhood, which revealed that many people lack an understanding of the unique significance of early childhood compared to other life stages. The Princess of Wales says, ‘90 per cent of our adult brain grows before the age of five. It just shows what a precious time this is and what an amazing opportunity we've got to really nurture their minds and put them in the best possible position for their future lives.’
Charlotte Bateman, operations director at Little Barn Owls, has been a tremendous source of inspiration. At the 2024 Nursery World Awards, Charlotte received a highly commended in the Outstanding Contribution category, and our setting won the award for Enabling Environments. I feel truly privileged to work alongside Charlotte in my dream job, using my experience to shape the future for educators by being kind, respectful of their strengths and thoughtful in my reflections on practice.
Personally, I believe that being shortlisted for awards has motivated me to challenge myself and pursue a career with a company I have long admired, and I have not been disappointed in my choice. The sector consistently provides opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families, which brings me immense job satisfaction and pride.
