With 9-15 February marking National Apprenticeship Week, Bright Horizons Callands is celebrating the positive impact of supporting people in the Warrington area through its apprenticeship programme in the Early Years sector.
With this year’s national theme focusing on “Skills for Life”, the nursery is highlighting how apprenticeships are helping people in the community gain meaningful qualifications, develop long-term skills and careers and support high quality early years education for local families.
With the government placing a strong emphasis on boosting practical skills and encouraging more people to consider apprenticeships, Bright Horizons Callands is proud to be offering accessible routes into Early Years careers within the local community.
In 2025, Bright Horizons recorded its strongest year for apprenticeship completions to date, with around 400 apprentices successfully qualifying nationally and success rates rising to over 70%, vs. a national achievement rate of 60.5%.
This includes participants at Bright Horizons Callands where apprentices are building confidence, practical experience and the professional skills needed to support children’s learning and development.
The apprenticeship scheme at Bright Horizons Callands provides structured on the job training, expert mentoring and a clear path into a long-term career in Early Years, with targeted support for apprentices who may face additional barriers to completion. This is complemented by partnerships with higher education institutions which help enhance leadership qualifications and progression routes for Early Years professionals.
Apprentices work directly with children and families, gaining valuable experience while contributing to the nursery’s role within the community.
Kate, Nursery Manager at Bright Horizons Callands said: “Our apprenticeship programme is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do here at Bright Horizons Callands. It allows local people to gain real skills, confidence and qualifications while contributing to the care and education of our children. Watching our apprentices grow into skilled professionals is incredibly inspiring, and our families really feel the benefit of the fresh energy and commitment they bring.”
Sophie (pictured), Level 3 Early Years Educator apprentice at Bright Horizons Callands, said: “Joining the apprenticeship at Bright Horizons Callands has really helped me build my skills and confidence. Being able to learn on the job has made a big difference, because I can put what I’m studying into practice straight away. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the children and understanding how to support their learning and wellbeing day to day, and the team has been supportive throughout my training, offering guidance whenever I’ve needed it.”
By nurturing homegrown talent, Bright Horizons Callands is helping strengthen the local Early Years workforce and ensuring families continue to receive high-quality childcare and education.
Learn more about apprenticeships with Bright Horizons here.
