National Apprenticeship Week - Meet Emily

To close our National Apprenticeship Week series, we’re celebrating Emily Mellors, who has recently achieved her Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship at Solihull Discoveryland. Her love of working with children started when she was a little girl, and today she continues to bring that passion to her role - always ready to provide comfort and support for the children she cares for. 

Why did you choose an apprenticeship in early years? 

I chose to do an apprenticeship at Busy Bees as I’ve always had a passion for working with children since I was a little girl. I love watching the children grow in confidence and come into a happy setting. I knew early years education and an apprenticeship was for me rather than sitting in a classroom as I learn better by doing and seeing things visually in real life. I therefore came straight from school to start my early years career. 

What do you love about your job? 

I love to guide children under my care; I’m always there for them if they need a cuddle. I come up with spontaneous activities based on children’s interests and the children love it as they can really be themselves.  

Why would you recommend an early years apprenticeship? 

I recommend doing an apprenticeship in the early years because it gives you hands-on experience from the very start, helping you build real skills while you learn. Instead of only studying theory, you’re working directly with children, understanding their needs, and learning how a early years setting actually runs day-to-day. It also helps you grow in confidence, communication, and responsibility early on, while earning and gaining a qualification at the same time. An apprenticeship can open doors to long-term career opportunities and gives you a strong foundation for working in early years or progressing into further education later. 

What’s next? 

Once I complete my apprenticeship, I plan to progress onto level 3. I want to also go into SEN training and develop my knowledge. I’m excited to keep on developing my skills with Busy Bees and give the children the best start in life.