Nursery group Busy Bees is looking to recruit 300 new apprentices across the UK as part of its continued investment in the future growth of the sector.

The announcement comes as the government launches a dedicated early years recruitment campaign to raise the profile of the early years sector and tackle recruitment challenges. It also coincides with National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from 5 to 11 February with the theme Skills for Life.

The 300 new childcare apprentice roles will be based at Busy Bees’ centres across the UK, and candidates will have the chance to gain a Level 3 qualification in childcare and education.

All candidates will also gain practical experience with a guaranteed job following successful completion of their training, including employee benefits such as enhanced family leave, discounted childcare, and above National Minimum Wage rates of pay for apprentices. 

Charlotte Hutchings, group chief people officer at Busy Bees, said: “As the childcare sector faces a year of uncertainty, it is more important than ever to invest in recruitment programmes and encourage new talent into the industry.

“We are working hard to support our early years apprentices, to harness their enthusiasm for childcare and nurture their skills. They are rewarded with a market-leading salary and the foundations for a lifelong career, enriched by the chance to gain further childcare qualifications throughout their time with us.”

Izzy Leagas, early years apprentice at Ragstone House, Maidstone, said: “Throughout my Early Years Educator training, I’ve felt completely supported to get stuck in and learn on the job.”