Christine Fletcher

Manager

Buttercups Pre-School is a committee run pre-school that offers early years education to children aged 2-4 years, during term-time only. Currently, two members of staff are completing apprenticeships.

Christine explained, “Employing an apprentice is beneficial because it provides a cost-effective way to develop staff who are trained to the setting’s needs, support staffing ratios, gain recognised qualifications and often remain with the setting long term, helping build a stable and skilled workforce.”

She added, “I chose the College for apprenticeship training as I completed my level 3 in Early Years with CWA in 2015 and received excellent support from my tutor throughout the course. Having support from the local college, with regular visits for observations and reviews, made a real difference in keeping my apprenticeship on track.

With CWA being local to us, it makes the experience far more personal compared to online-only courses, which can feel less engaging. One of our apprentices, Lilly, has been a real benefit to the setting. She has developed strong skills and confidence in her role, which has had a positive impact on day-to-day productivity and the overall quality of care provided.

Having an apprentice has also supported staff capacity, helping to manage workloads more effectively and reduce pressure during busy periods or staff absence. From a business perspective, investing in training has allowed us to develop a knowledgeable, committed member of the team who understands our policies and values, making it a cost-effective and sustainable way to grow our workforce.

I would recommend the College of West Anglia because they provide reliable support, clear communication and high-quality training that fits well around the demands of early years settings. The apprentices gain practical, relevant skills, and the College staff are approachable and responsive, making the apprenticeship process smooth and beneficial for both the apprentice and the business.”