This week, we caught up with Nina Hurst, Nursery Manager at Happy Days Nursery to find out how taking on trainee, Aminah has performed on her work placement.

This ‘well-established Outstanding’ Ofsted nursery in Quinton provides a safe, happy and sociable environment for 0 -5-year-olds to grow and develop.

Read our Employer case study below to find out more about this success story.

What were you looking to achieve with the trainee you took on?

The management team at Happy Days wanted to provide young people with real work experience and skills in the Early Years sector. A traineeship also helps young people understand what the working economy is like and how to deal with people day to day, offering them some independence and responsibility.

How has our trainee, Aminah, positively impacted your organisation and team?

Aminah was with us for 3 months and became a valued member of the team. She supported the children’s emotional needs, followed our policies closely and offered to help wherever she could. A true example of a trainee!

Have you seen Aminah develop professionally and personally over the course of the traineeship?

Aminah has developed really well, the parents began to recognise her support too over the course of her placement. In such a short space of time, Aminah became very confident with the team and built some strong relationships with both staff and children.

Is there an area where you feel your organisation has give them an opportunity to further their development/learning?

I offered Aminah some volunteer work to help boost her work experience even further, in which she was delighted to accept. I was hoping an apprenticeship became available for her as she would have been a great asset to the team.

To further enhance her learning, Aminah now also has some experience with SEN children and has learnt how to support their daily needs too.

How do you think a work placement helps young people jumpstart their careers?

For young adults, a work placement shows will and determination to learn new skills in their desired industry sector and teaches them life skills such as how to be a team player.

What advice would you give to an employer who is unsure about traineeships?

Give them a chance…My nursery setting is usually only partnered with universities and colleges. However, we gave Novo a go and their trainees have been fantastic so far.

Would you recommend Novo Training to other employers and if so, why?

Yes, the communication between myself and Novo has been excellent. The team offer support to your company as well as their trainees and any matters of concern are dealt with promptly. I am fortunate to not have any concerns.