As we continue celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with Chloe Russell, Centre Director at Busy Bees Chelmsford, to hear about her career journey.
Published: 13/02/2025
As we continue celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with Chloe Russell, Centre Director at Busy Bees Chelmsford, to hear about her career journey. Chloe reflects on how starting as an apprentice at Busy Bees set the foundation for her success and how the ongoing support, training and hands-on experience have helped her grow into her current leadership role.
It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the growth and development of all the children in my care as they progress through their nursery journey. I love coming to work every day and seeing the smiles on their faces. Building connections with families and being a part of this wonderful community is truly fulfilling.
No two days are ever the same and that’s what I love the most about my job. My day involves ensuring the children experience quality interactions, engaging activities and a nurturing environment. I also support my team, organise events for existing parents, and host show rounds for new families. I cherish the moments when I can read stories to the children and spend one-on-one time getting to know each child and their individual needs.
I began my journey at Busy Bees Chelmsford in October 2014 as an apprentice, working towards my Level 2 Early Years childcare qualification. During my apprenticeship, I received incredible support from my manager and training mentor. When I completed my apprenticeship, I was given the opportunity to gain hands-on experience across all age groups in my setting.
After receiving my Level 2 qualification, I was offered a position as an Early Years Educator at Busy Bees Chelmsford. I then continued my studies by enrolling for my Level 3 Early Years childcare qualification.
Throughout both my Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications, Busy Bees provided additional training including Paediatric First Aid, Safeguarding, Ofsted, Food Hygiene and more, which helped me broaden my knowledge and experience in the childcare industry.
Upon completing my Level 3 childcare qualification, I progressed to a Senior Room Manager. After two years, I became Assistant Centre Director and I am now proud to be Centre Director for the nursery.
It has been a wonderful journey so far and I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Absolutely! I would highly recommend apprenticeships to young people. They offer a fantastic opportunity to gain real-world experience whilst earning and learning at the same time. They also offer the chance to build valuable skills and open up doors for long-term opportunities and growth.
