As part of National Apprenticeship Week, Chloe Catterall, a Support Assistant and apprentice at the Pre-School Centre talks about her experience of learning and working at Lancaster.

Chloe recently started an apprenticeship at the Pre-School Centre as a Support Assistant, undertaking an Early Years Educator apprenticeship.

Chloe attended the Pre-School from being a baby until she left for Primary School. Her mother, Catherine Catterall, started working at the Pre-School Centre as an Early Years Practitioner in 1996 and has recently been awarded her 25-year Long Service Award from the University.

Chloe will undertake her (Level 3) apprenticeship through Lancaster and Morecambe College over the next 18 months.

Chloe said: “As I came to the Pre-School Centre as a child, I had so many fond memories of my time here. I decided to come back and choose Early Years as a profession and become an Apprentice. Gaining first-hand experience and expertise from the staff team around me. I’m so excited to develop my knowledge and become an Early Years Practitioner.

“I’ve have been here for a few months and really enjoy watching the teaching which takes place through learning activities and seeing all the enjoyment the children have throughout their day. Child development is really interesting and I’m happy I have chosen to study and work.”

Lancaster University Pre-School Centre Manager, Adele Stewart said: “Apprentices are part of the next generation of Early Years Practitioners and Teachers and as Early Years Educators we are passionate about offering them an opportunity to learn and develop their skills in a supportive and knowledgeable learning environment.

“With a hat-trick of Outstanding Ofsted judgements it is our belief that there really is no better place for an apprentice to begin their career in Early Years. To see ex-pupils, return to undertake this role with us is an endorsement of the impact and memories we created in their own Early Years, inspiring them to do the same for others.”