19/08/2026
We are delighted to partner with VTS with apprenticeship opportunities in the early years sector. Thank you for such a wonderful write up and we are very excited about the future.
Partnerships mean brighter futures for the next generation of learners 💙
We believe the best apprenticeship experiences are built through strong partnerships with employers
We've recently been working closely with Louise Silk, Director at Second Steps and Shelley Ward, Manager of Second Steps Colchester (pictured), to strengthen the support available for Early Years apprentices.
Jane (pictured with Shelley), our Senior Tutor/ Senior IQA/ Early Years Curriculum Lead has been attending the Colchester setting for the last 4 years and has worked closely with Shelley to support apprentices. By gaining monthly updates on their progress they have together been able to give tailored support.
Together they've been developing:
✔ More comprehensive apprentice inductions
✔ Regular progress reviews
✔ Better alignment between workplace training and study plans
✔ Supporting managers to engage with apprentices' learning
✔ Developing practical skills alongside course knowledge
By working together, we're creating an environment where apprentices can thrive while helping employers develop confident, skilled practitioners 🌀
This is especially important right now as we face the NEET crisis, where over 1 million young people aged 16-24 are classed as Not in Education, Employment, or Training. We're doing everything we can in Essex to improve conditions and motivate and inspire learners ✨
We can't wait to see the positive impact this collaboration has on current and future apprentices.
If you'd like to do something similar in your setting, get in touch and let's have a conversation 📲
