Early Years Work Placement Star student 

We spoke to EKC Broadstairs Nursery about their experience providing placements for Early Years learners. 

Work placement programmes allow students to gain first-hand, practical experience and benefit both student and employer.

Sophia Theodorou, Assistant Deputy Manager at EKC Broadstairs Nursery, has seen the positive impact of dedicated students over the last ten years. She highlights how proactive students make a significant difference in the nursery’s dynamic.  

“The students that do their work placements here get to see that it’s hard work. We’re a busy setting and we work to high standards and follow procedures. Students coming in here get a really good all-round experience.” 

Sophia spoke about a current first-year T level Education and Early Years student that stands out from all of the rest.  

“Jerry is proactive, so she won’t just sit on the side. The children love her because she does engage with them. She’s really willing to learn and is quite happy to listen and take our advice on board.” 

Jerry began the T Level Education and Early Years programme in September 2024 and has enjoyed her work placement since the start. 

“I’ve learnt skills that I don’t think I would have learnt without my work placement, like how best to communicate with certain children with special educational needs and how to balance it with the other children.  

“I wasn’t sure if I wanted to stay in Early Years before I started the course but now, I definitely know that I love it,” said Jerry. 

Rosa Thayre, an Early Years Practitioner for EKC Broadstairs Nursery, worked at the site for six years and has seen the growth in students that have committed to their work placement.  

“It’s nice having the students because it frees us up in the work that needs to get done. It means there’s less pressure on the staff. Jerry is happy to get involved and she watches what we do, so she can learn what to do in certain situations,” said Rosa. 

Rosa’s appreciates having dedicated and enthusiastic students who are eager to learn and contribute. 

Work placements not only provide immediate learning opportunities but also pave the way for future employment.  

Sophia mentioned, “If Jerry needs a job at the end of this, there’s definitely going to be one here for her.”  

At EKC Broadstairs Nursery, students like Jerry show how these programmes can grow confidence in students and can help them form their career path. 

For anyone considering studying an Education and Early Years course including a work placement, visit the course page for more information.