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Childcare & Early Education

Quality Training

Childcare is a vocation that requires on the job, practical learning that can be supported by crucial knowledge and study. All of our providers deliver meaningful training so you can begin your childcare traineeship in the best way possible.

When it comes to a career in childcare, if your training hasn’t been of sufficient quality then having a qualification on a piece of paper doesn’t necessarily mean you can do the job. Our key training providers – Qube Learning and Eden Training Solutions – ensure that all of our childcare apprentices and trainees have everything they need to succeed with a career in childcare. They will provide you with the materials and knowledge you need to underpin day to day work in a childcare and early learning environment, and while you are working in one of our settings, our experienced staff will be there to help guide you further and share their own insights.

Traineeships

Traineeships are designed to help young people build appropriate skills and experience in order to start their career. Our childcare traineeship programmes run for 37.5 hours per week for 8 weeks, with the majority of the time spent in the workplace gaining on the job experience. All of the work preparation training is provided by Qube Learning.

Apprenticeships

A childcare apprenticeship is a real job, with hands-on experience, a salary and the chance to train while you work. You are treated just like all the other staff members, with a contract of employment and holiday leave, but you will also get additional time for study related to your role. We run childcare apprenticeships at Level 2 and Level 3.

Local People

We are committed to employing local people and providing employment opportunities to our local communities. Over 75% of our staff live in the community in which they work, and understanding our communities is an essential part of Derwent Stepping Stones; one of the criteria in our person specifications is ‘understanding of local issues’.

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Qube Learning

Qube Learning is one of England’s longest-serving independent training providers. With over 20 years' experience in the education sector, Qube specialises in vocational courses, short courses and e-learning. They say: “We are at the heart of some truly dynamic and engaging collaborations that prepare our students for success in current and future careers.”

Eden Training

Eden Training Solutions are an award winning, independent training provider, operating since 2008. They deliver vocational and bespoke training to employers and individuals across Business, Fitness, Education and Childcare sectors. Their vision is ‘to help people Reach their Potential by developing their knowledge and skills for a brighter future.’

On the Job Support

Childcare trainees and apprentices spend most of their time working in the units with the children. Hands-on training provides a real chance to put skills into practice and gain more confidence in a working environment. All trainees and apprentices are also given a mentor within our staff who will support their learning and help guide them at work.