As the UK’s largest childcare provider, Busy Bees is dedicated to delivering early years education that inspires children to shape their own futures. But we know that to make this vision a reality, we need to empower our people too.
Published: 10/02/2025
As the UK’s largest childcare provider, Busy Bees is dedicated to delivering early years education that inspires children to shape their own futures. But we know that to make this vision a reality, we need to empower our people too.
That’s why the training and development of our teams is key. We believe that by providing opportunities for growth, we can equip our colleagues with the skills and knowledge to build successful careers whilst supporting our vision to give every child the best start in life.
Each year, we’re proud to welcome more apprentices into our nurseries, providing them with the tools and guidance to become the world-class educators of the future.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with Qualified Early Years Educator Ellie Boardman to ask how she has enjoyed her apprenticeship journey.
Ellie joined our Rainham nursery in August 2022. Since then, she has completed her Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship.
She says: “I have always had an interest in working with children so this apprenticeship felt like the perfect way to kickstart my career in early years education.
“The apprenticeship was a great fit for me as it allowed me to gain a qualification whilst ‘learning on the job’. The course has expanded my knowledge of the sector and I am excited to grow my career with Busy Bees, knowing there are lots of opportunities in the future.”
I love watching the children achieve their milestones, especially after all the hard work that’s gone into helping them reach their potential. It’s so rewarding to work closely with the children and their parents to ensure they thrive. On top of that, celebrating personal milestones with the children and seeing their excitement for my achievements is truly special.
I don't think I've ever had a day that’s the same as the one before!
Each day is so varied – whether it’s painting, puzzles, storytime, singing or heading outside for outdoor play, there’s always something exciting happening at nursery. We’ve also launched a new curriculum called Bee Curious, which has been a fantastic opportunity to learn and implement these techniques to ensure every child has the best start in life.
One thing is for: I'll always have a little shadow by my side, keeping me entertained with endless 3-year-old facts!
Discover the Bee Curious Curriculum
100%! Before starting my apprenticeship with Busy Bees, I attended college and studied my diploma in policing. I realised I wanted to go into childcare, and I'm so glad I did my research before taking the course. I've gained so much knowledge and have been able to work alongside experienced educators. As someone who finds learning quiet challenging, the hands-on experience changed my view on learning and made me much more confident in my abilities.
Can you share your experience of the Talent Exchange Programme? How do you feel this opportunity has supported your development?
It completely changed my life - it’s the best experience I’ve ever had. Seeing Busy Bees make an impact on children across the global was incredible. When I applied, I'd just finished my exam and was still waiting for my apprenticeship results, so it felt like a huge leap of faith. But being part of the programme gave me so much confidence, and I came back with a whole new perspective on early years education. It's something I'll carry with me forever!
Find out more about the Busy Bees Talent Exchange Programme.