Apprenticeships at N: Everything you need to know

Choosing an apprenticeship is a powerful first step towards a meaningful, long-term career. At N, apprenticeships are more than just training programmes. They are carefully supported learning journeys designed to help you grow, gain confidence, and build skills that last a lifetime.

Whether you’re starting your career, changing direction, or looking to gain a recognised qualification while working, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about applying for an apprenticeship at N.

What is an apprenticeship at N?

An apprenticeship at N combines practical, hands-on experience with formal training and nationally recognised qualifications. Apprentices work as part of a real team while developing the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to succeed in their role and progress in their career.

At N, apprenticeships are available across early years education, kitchen roles, and business and support functions, reflecting the diverse careers that exist within our organisation.

You’ll be supported throughout your apprenticeship journey with structured learning, guidance from experienced colleagues, and training delivered by specialist external providers.

Benefits for apprentices at N

At N, apprentices are valued members of our nursery teams from day one. That means apprentices receive the same core benefits as other nursery educators, alongside their training and qualification. Here’s what apprentices can expect:

Personal development fund

All nursery team members, including apprentices, have access to a personal development fund. This can be used to support learning, wellbeing, or personal interests, encouraging growth not just professionally but also personally.

Clothing allowance

Apprentices receive a clothing allowance to support them with appropriate workwear, helping them feel comfortable, confident, and prepared for their role in the nursery.

Nursery fee discount

For apprentices who are parents, N offers a nursery fee discount, making high-quality childcare more accessible and supporting families as they pursue careers.

Wagestream

Apprentices can access Wagestream, giving greater financial flexibility by allowing access to earned pay before payday, helping with budgeting and financial wellbeing.

Lunch and drinks provided

Working in a nursery is busy and rewarding, so apprentices benefit from lunch and drinks provided during the working day, helping them stay fuelled and focused.

These are just some of the many benefits available to nursery team members at N. You can explore the full range of nursery team benefits in our 2026 Benefits Guide here.

Why N invests in apprenticeships

We believe that people do their best work when they are supported, valued, and given opportunities to grow.

Our ambition is to welcome new and emerging talent into N while also supporting the ongoing development of our existing team members. By offering apprenticeships and other formal qualifications, we help people build confidence, deepen their expertise, and progress in ways that align with their goals - big or small.

This commitment is reflected in the impact of our apprenticeship programmes. In 2025:

• 57 apprentices successfully completed their programmes
• 33 apprentices passed with a Distinction
• 20 new apprentices are waiting to enrol to date

As Naomi, our Talent Development Manager, explains:

“Our purpose is to inspire and develop the next generation, and apprenticeships bring that to life for our own people. With children and families at the heart of everything we do, apprenticeships help early talent grow into confident educators, creating meaningful careers in early years while equipping people with the skills and support they need to help children reach their full potential.”

These outcomes highlight not only the quality of our training and support, but also the ambition and dedication of our apprentices.

In our nurseries, apprenticeships also play a vital role in shaping high-quality early years education. By training educators in line with N’s values and ethos, we ensure that children benefit from passionate, well-prepared teams who care deeply about their learning and development.

Who can apply for an apprenticeship at N?

Apprenticeships at N are open to a wide range of people, including:

• Those new to the early years sector
• Career-changers looking for a fresh start
• School leavers or graduates seeking hands-on experience
• Existing team members who want to gain a formal qualification

You don’t need previous experience to apply for many apprenticeship roles - curiosity, commitment, and a genuine interest in learning are just as important.

What apprenticeships and qualifications are available?

N offers a broad range of apprenticeships and formal training programmes to support different career paths.

Early Years Apprenticeships

These programmes support careers in education and childcare and include:

• Level 2 Early Years Practitioner
• Level 3 Early Years Educator
• Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner
• Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYTS)

These qualifications help apprentices build strong foundations and, for those who wish, progress into leadership or teaching roles.

Functional Skills

Functional Skills qualifications in English and Maths are available to apprentices who need them to ensure their qualifications are recognised as full and relevant.

Kitchen Team Apprenticeships

For those passionate about food and nutrition, we offer:

• Level 2 Production Chef
• Level 3 Senior Production Chef

These apprenticeships support professional development within our nursery kitchens.

Business and Support Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are also available across our support functions, including:

• Customer Service
• Business Administration
• HR
• Learning & Development
• Team Leading & Management

These programmes offer valuable pathways into professional and operational roles across the organisation.

Who delivers apprenticeship training?

To ensure high-quality learning experiences, N partners with trusted and experienced external training providers. These specialists deliver structured teaching, assessments, and ongoing support throughout the apprenticeship journey.

Our current training partners include:

• Inspiro Learning
• Best Practice Network
• Bespoke Professional Training Solutions
• Professional Training Solutions (Functional Skills only)

What does an apprenticeship at N look like in practice?

As an apprentice at N, you’ll:

• Work in a real role as part of a supportive team
• Learn through a mix of on-the-job experience and formal training
• Develop practical skills alongside professional knowledge
• Work towards a recognised qualification while earning a salary

Apprenticeships are designed to support learning during working hours and to help you grow confidently in your role.

How to apply for an apprenticeship at N

Applying for an apprenticeship at N is simple and transparent.

Step 1: Explore available roles

Visit our careers website to view current apprenticeship opportunities.

Each listing includes information about the role, qualification, and what to expect.

If you’d like a little extra guidance before applying, you can also explore our blog for practical tips on how to write a standout CV.

Step 2: Submit your application

Apply online through the role page. You’ll be asked to share details about yourself and your interest in the apprenticeship. Previous experience isn’t always required - we’re keen to hear about your motivation and enthusiasm.

Step 3: Interview and selection

If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to interview. This is an opportunity for us to learn more about you and for you to ask questions about the role, training, and life at N.

Already part of N?

Apprenticeships and formal qualifications aren’t just for new starters. Existing team members at N are also encouraged to explore development opportunities that support their career progression.

If you’re interested in starting an apprenticeship or qualification while working at N, guidance and support are available to help you take the next step.

What happens after an apprenticeship?

Many people choose to continue their careers at N after completing an apprenticeship, progressing into more senior roles or further qualifications. Others take the skills and confidence they’ve gained into new opportunities.

Whatever your next step looks like, an apprenticeship at N is designed to give you a strong foundation for the future.

Have questions or want to learn more?

If you’d like more information about apprenticeships or formal training opportunities at N, you can email our Talent team at careers@nfamilyclub.com

Start your apprenticeship journey with N

An apprenticeship at N Family Club is a chance to learn, grow, and build a career that makes a real difference - to children, families, and to you.

If you’re ready to take the first step, explore our current opportunities and start your journey with N today.