Adeola's Story: I Know How I Learn Best

I know how I learn best.

For me, sitting in a classroom listening to theory wasn't enough. I learn through hands-on experience. I need to do it to understand it.

That is why I chose an apprenticeship. I wanted to put what I was learning into practice immediately, not wait years to use it.

I found the opportunity on LinkedIn. I applied to be an Early Years Practitioner at one of the University of Birmingham's Nurseries. The process was surprisingly straightforward: a CV, a cover letter, an interview, and finally a tour of the nursery.

It felt like the right fit. But moving from college to the workplace was a bigger jump than I expected.

The Reality of the "First Job"

I came into this straight out of college. I had never worked a full-time job before.

The most challenging part wasn't the work itself. It was learning how to manage my life around it.

Adjusting to a full-time routine took time. I had to learn how to manage my energy and how to make space for the things I enjoy outside of work.

My weeks are intense. I alternate between early and late shifts. On an early week, I start at 7:30 am. I am there to greet parents, record messages, and serve breakfast. Throughout the day, I am shadowing staff, completing weekly observations, and running sleep checks to ensure the children are safe.

On late shifts, I handle the handovers to parents. I have to give them the full update on their child's day, from what they ate to reminders about nappies.

It is a lot of responsibility. Looking back, I wish I had known just how much responsibility would be given to me early on. It took some getting used to, but it pushed me to trust my abilities much faster than I would have in a classroom.

Growth for an Introvert

I am naturally introverted.

Suddenly, my role involved interacting daily with colleagues, parents, and children. It was a challenge at first.

But I have improved significantly. I learned that in a fast-paced nursery environment, you cannot wait to be asked to do something. You have to take initiative. You have to offer help.

I realized that stepping outside of my comfort zone is where the real growth happens. Small acts of support make a big difference in a busy setting, and learning to be proactive has built my confidence in ways I didn't expect.

My Advice to You

If you are currently searching for an apprenticeship, or if you are facing rejection and long waiting periods, here is my advice:

Don't give up

The process can be discouraging, but you have to stay consistent.

You don't need to have everything figured out from the start. An apprenticeship is about learning and growing as you go.

If you are willing to work hard, ask questions, and step out of your comfort zone, the right opportunity will come.