Hannah Jones from Bangor, Gwynedd, is our final Apprentice of the Month for 2024. Hannah has been nominated for completing the core element of her course and for working fantastically independently. She has succeeded in a recent test, has completed some great observations, demonstrated good practice with the children and collaborated effectively with other staff.
Hannah works at Meithrinfa Ffalabalam, Bangor, and this is what her manager had to say: "Hannah is a hard worker and is very good with all the children. Once a week she works with a young child with additional learning needs. Hannah has worked closely with the parents and external agencies to help create a plan to help the child adapt to the nursery. When required, we can put Hannah with any age and she can adapt her way of working with the children."
Why did you start your apprenticeship with the Urdd?
I started the Childcare Level 2 qualification to learn new skills so that I can develop my ability for the future. By completing it while working I can get hands-on experiences with advice and information from my assessor and be in a job I enjoy.
What do you enjoy most about your job and how has the apprenticeship effected your work?
I love that every day is different. It allows me to be creative with the children through crafts and play and being a part of their learning and development. By completing the apprenticeship, it makes me think more about everything I do for the children and also what I can achieve in my future and what I can do to improve in my work and skills.
What does completing your apprenticeship in Welsh/bilingually mean to you?
By being able to do it bilingually allows me to develop my Welsh written work.
What are your interests outside work?
I enjoy being outdoors, especially near lakes and forests with friends which has developed a keen interest in photography.
In what way has your apprenticeship contributed to your personal development?
It has given me confidence in the way I work. I have learnt a lot about what it takes to understand a child's mind and what it takes to be the person they need to help them grow, learn, and feel safe.
What do you hope to do after your apprenticeship?
I hope to further my learning by continuing with mytraining and one day I’d enjoy trying a 1:1 role.
Briefly describe your duties.
My duties include safeguarding, well-being and ensuring that all children feel safe and heard. I also allow them to feel confident in their learning and development and support them in their achievements.
Describe your experience in 3 words.
Fun, learn, growth
Would you like to add anything to your story?
I am grateful for the opportunity given to me. I get to gain a qualification, learn and grow through work.