Company Director Review
at Bonnie Bear Day Care
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Teaching
Liverpool
Review Submitted: March 2026
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
As the Nursery Owner/Director, my role is to provide strategic leadership, operational management, and quality assurance across all areas of the setting. While I hold overall responsibility for the business, I am also actively involved in the day-to-day running of the nursery, ensuring that children receive high-quality care and education in line with the Ofsted requirements and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
As part of my professional development, I am currently completing a Level 7 Leadership Apprenticeship, which I have found to be both rewarding and highly beneficial to my role as a nursery owner and director. The programme provides me with the opportunity to further develop my leadership, strategic thinking, and management skills, allowing me to continuously improve the quality of provision within the nursery.
I particularly enjoy the opportunity to reflect on my leadership style and how this impacts the staff team, the children, and the overall culture of the setting. The apprenticeship encourages me to think critically about decision-making, communication, and effective team leadership. This has helped me strengthen my ability to support staff, promote a positive working environment, and ensure that everyone feels valued and motivated.
Another aspect I value is the focus on strategic leadership and organisational development. The learning I gain through the apprenticeship allows me to look at the nursery from a broader perspective, considering long-term improvements, sustainability, and ways to continually raise standards. I am able to apply the knowledge directly within the nursery by improving systems, supporting staff development, and strengthening our overall approach to leadership and management.
The apprenticeship also encourages reflective practice, which aligns closely with the principles of early years education. It allows me to regularly evaluate my own practice, identify areas for development, and implement changes that positively impact the setting.
Overall, I greatly enjoy undertaking the Level 7 Leadership Apprenticeship as it supports my professional growth and enables me to be a more effective leader. The knowledge and skills I gain contribute directly to improving outcomes for children, supporting staff development, and ensuring the nursery continues to provide a high-quality learning environment.
I particularly enjoy the opportunity to reflect on my leadership style and how this impacts the staff team, the children, and the overall culture of the setting. The apprenticeship encourages me to think critically about decision-making, communication, and effective team leadership. This has helped me strengthen my ability to support staff, promote a positive working environment, and ensure that everyone feels valued and motivated.
Another aspect I value is the focus on strategic leadership and organisational development. The learning I gain through the apprenticeship allows me to look at the nursery from a broader perspective, considering long-term improvements, sustainability, and ways to continually raise standards. I am able to apply the knowledge directly within the nursery by improving systems, supporting staff development, and strengthening our overall approach to leadership and management.
The apprenticeship also encourages reflective practice, which aligns closely with the principles of early years education. It allows me to regularly evaluate my own practice, identify areas for development, and implement changes that positively impact the setting.
Overall, I greatly enjoy undertaking the Level 7 Leadership Apprenticeship as it supports my professional growth and enables me to be a more effective leader. The knowledge and skills I gain contribute directly to improving outcomes for children, supporting staff development, and ensuring the nursery continues to provide a high-quality learning environment.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes, through my Level 7 Leadership Apprenticeship, I have both developed existing skills and gained new ones that support my role as a nursery owner and director.
One of the key areas I have strengthened is my strategic leadership and decision-making skills. The programme has helped me take a more reflective and analytical approach to leadership, allowing me to consider the wider impact of decisions on staff, children, families, and the long-term development of the nursery. This has supported me in making more informed decisions that align with the vision and values of the setting.
I have also further developed my communication and team leadership skills. The apprenticeship has helped me refine how I communicate with staff, ensuring that expectations are clear while also creating a supportive environment where team members feel confident to share ideas and reflect on their practice. This has strengthened my ability to lead supervisions, provide constructive feedback, and support staff development.
Another skill I have developed is reflective practice and self-awareness as a leader. The course encourages regular reflection on leadership styles and behaviours, which has helped me better understand how my approach can influence the culture of the nursery. As a result, I am more mindful of how I motivate and support the team to maintain high standards of practice.
Additionally, I have gained a deeper understanding of organisational management and continuous improvement. This includes looking at systems, processes, and policies within the nursery and identifying ways they can be improved to support both staff and children. I have been able to apply this learning directly within the setting by reviewing procedures and strengthening areas such as staff development and operational management.
Overall, the apprenticeship has allowed me to enhance my leadership capabilities, build confidence in strategic management, and continue improving the quality of the provision for children and families within the nursery.
One of the key areas I have strengthened is my strategic leadership and decision-making skills. The programme has helped me take a more reflective and analytical approach to leadership, allowing me to consider the wider impact of decisions on staff, children, families, and the long-term development of the nursery. This has supported me in making more informed decisions that align with the vision and values of the setting.
I have also further developed my communication and team leadership skills. The apprenticeship has helped me refine how I communicate with staff, ensuring that expectations are clear while also creating a supportive environment where team members feel confident to share ideas and reflect on their practice. This has strengthened my ability to lead supervisions, provide constructive feedback, and support staff development.
Another skill I have developed is reflective practice and self-awareness as a leader. The course encourages regular reflection on leadership styles and behaviours, which has helped me better understand how my approach can influence the culture of the nursery. As a result, I am more mindful of how I motivate and support the team to maintain high standards of practice.
Additionally, I have gained a deeper understanding of organisational management and continuous improvement. This includes looking at systems, processes, and policies within the nursery and identifying ways they can be improved to support both staff and children. I have been able to apply this learning directly within the setting by reviewing procedures and strengthening areas such as staff development and operational management.
Overall, the apprenticeship has allowed me to enhance my leadership capabilities, build confidence in strategic management, and continue improving the quality of the provision for children and families within the nursery.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The Level 7 Leadership Apprenticeship programme is well organised and structured, which has helped me balance the course alongside my responsibilities as a nursery owner and director. The programme is delivered in a clear format with a combination of taught sessions, independent study, and practical application within my workplace. This structure allows me to gradually build my knowledge while directly applying what I learn to the day-to-day running of the nursery.
The modules are clearly planned and focus on key leadership and management areas such as strategic thinking, organisational development, communication, and effective leadership practices. Each section builds on the previous one, which helps develop a deeper understanding of leadership over time rather than learning everything at once.
I also find the regular meetings with my tutor/coach very helpful. These sessions provide the opportunity to discuss my progress, reflect on what I have learned, and receive guidance on assignments and workplace projects. The support helps ensure I stay on track with my learning and complete the required work within the expected timeframes.
Another positive aspect of the structure is that the programme encourages practical application of learning. Many of the tasks and assignments are linked to real situations within my nursery, which means the work I complete directly contributes to improving leadership practice and the overall development of the setting.
Overall, the programme is well structured and supportive. It provides a good balance between theory and practical experience, allowing me to develop my leadership skills while continuing to manage the daily operations of the nursery effectively.
The modules are clearly planned and focus on key leadership and management areas such as strategic thinking, organisational development, communication, and effective leadership practices. Each section builds on the previous one, which helps develop a deeper understanding of leadership over time rather than learning everything at once.
I also find the regular meetings with my tutor/coach very helpful. These sessions provide the opportunity to discuss my progress, reflect on what I have learned, and receive guidance on assignments and workplace projects. The support helps ensure I stay on track with my learning and complete the required work within the expected timeframes.
Another positive aspect of the structure is that the programme encourages practical application of learning. Many of the tasks and assignments are linked to real situations within my nursery, which means the work I complete directly contributes to improving leadership practice and the overall development of the setting.
Overall, the programme is well structured and supportive. It provides a good balance between theory and practical experience, allowing me to develop my leadership skills while continuing to manage the daily operations of the nursery effectively.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
As the nursery owner and employer, I recognise the importance of creating a supportive environment for both my own professional development and for the development of my staff team. Although I am responsible for leading the setting, I ensure that I put structures in place that allow time, resources, and opportunities for learning and reflection.
In relation to my Level 7 Leadership Apprenticeship, I ensure that I am able to dedicate appropriate time to complete the programme effectively. I plan my schedule to allow time for study, attending learning sessions, and completing assignments. This also includes setting aside time to reflect on how the learning can be applied within the nursery to improve leadership, management practices, and overall provision.
As an employer, I understand how important it is to support others who are undertaking training or professional development. I do this by creating a culture that values learning and encourages staff to develop their skills. This includes:
Allowing staff time to complete training or coursework
Providing guidance and encouragement when they are working towards qualifications
Holding regular supervisions and meetings to discuss progress and any challenges
Offering practical opportunities to apply new skills within the nursery
Creating an environment where staff feel comfortable asking for support or advice
I also ensure that staff feel valued and supported in their roles by maintaining open communication and recognising their achievements and progress. By modelling the importance of continuous professional development through my own apprenticeship, I hope to encourage the team to take pride in their own learning journeys.
Overall, while I am responsible for leading the organisation, I make sure that both myself and my team have the time, encouragement, and support needed to continue developing professionally, which ultimately benefits the quality of care and education provided to the children in the nursery.
In relation to my Level 7 Leadership Apprenticeship, I ensure that I am able to dedicate appropriate time to complete the programme effectively. I plan my schedule to allow time for study, attending learning sessions, and completing assignments. This also includes setting aside time to reflect on how the learning can be applied within the nursery to improve leadership, management practices, and overall provision.
As an employer, I understand how important it is to support others who are undertaking training or professional development. I do this by creating a culture that values learning and encourages staff to develop their skills. This includes:
Allowing staff time to complete training or coursework
Providing guidance and encouragement when they are working towards qualifications
Holding regular supervisions and meetings to discuss progress and any challenges
Offering practical opportunities to apply new skills within the nursery
Creating an environment where staff feel comfortable asking for support or advice
I also ensure that staff feel valued and supported in their roles by maintaining open communication and recognising their achievements and progress. By modelling the importance of continuous professional development through my own apprenticeship, I hope to encourage the team to take pride in their own learning journeys.
Overall, while I am responsible for leading the organisation, I make sure that both myself and my team have the time, encouragement, and support needed to continue developing professionally, which ultimately benefits the quality of care and education provided to the children in the nursery.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive a good level of support from my training provider while working towards my Level 7 Leadership Apprenticeship. The programme is structured in a way that ensures I have regular contact with my tutor or coach, which helps me stay focused and make steady progress with my learning.
One of the most valuable aspects of the support is the regular review meetings and coaching sessions. During these meetings, my tutor provides guidance on assignments, discusses the learning modules, and helps me reflect on how the knowledge can be applied within my role as a nursery owner and director. This support helps me deepen my understanding of leadership and management while linking the learning directly to my day-to-day responsibilities in the setting.
The training provider also offers clear guidance on coursework and expectations, which helps ensure that I understand what is required for each part of the programme. When needed, I can ask questions and receive feedback, which helps me improve my work and stay on track with deadlines.
Another positive aspect of the support is that the training provider encourages reflective practice and professional discussion. This allows me to explore real scenarios from my nursery and consider different leadership approaches, which has been very beneficial in developing my strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
Overall, the support from my training provider has been very helpful in ensuring that I can successfully work towards my qualification while managing the responsibilities of running a nursery. The regular guidance, feedback, and structured learning opportunities help me continue developing my leadership skills and applying them effectively within the setting.
One of the most valuable aspects of the support is the regular review meetings and coaching sessions. During these meetings, my tutor provides guidance on assignments, discusses the learning modules, and helps me reflect on how the knowledge can be applied within my role as a nursery owner and director. This support helps me deepen my understanding of leadership and management while linking the learning directly to my day-to-day responsibilities in the setting.
The training provider also offers clear guidance on coursework and expectations, which helps ensure that I understand what is required for each part of the programme. When needed, I can ask questions and receive feedback, which helps me improve my work and stay on track with deadlines.
Another positive aspect of the support is that the training provider encourages reflective practice and professional discussion. This allows me to explore real scenarios from my nursery and consider different leadership approaches, which has been very beneficial in developing my strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
Overall, the support from my training provider has been very helpful in ensuring that I can successfully work towards my qualification while managing the responsibilities of running a nursery. The regular guidance, feedback, and structured learning opportunities help me continue developing my leadership skills and applying them effectively within the setting.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
My Level 7 Leadership Apprenticeship has been very valuable in helping me perform more effectively in my role as a nursery owner and director. The qualification has strengthened my understanding of leadership, management, and organisational development, which supports me in leading the nursery with greater confidence and clarity.
One of the main ways the qualification supports my role is by helping me develop a more strategic approach to leadership. It encourages me to think beyond the day-to-day operations and consider the long-term development of the nursery. This includes reflecting on how systems, processes, and leadership practices can be improved to support staff, enhance the quality of provision, and ensure positive outcomes for children.
The course has also helped me improve my decision-making and problem-solving skills. Through the learning modules and discussions with my tutor, I am able to explore different leadership models and apply these to real situations within the nursery. This allows me to approach challenges more thoughtfully and implement solutions that support both the team and the overall running of the setting.
Another important benefit is the development of my communication and team leadership skills. The qualification has encouraged me to reflect on how I lead and support staff, helping me to create a more positive and collaborative working environment. This has strengthened my ability to guide staff, provide constructive feedback, and support their professional development.
Additionally, the focus on reflective practice and continuous improvement aligns closely with the expectations of high-quality early years provision. It encourages me to regularly evaluate my leadership and identify ways to further improve the nursery.
Overall, the qualification has had a positive impact on my ability to lead the nursery effectively. It has enhanced my leadership knowledge, strengthened my confidence in managing the setting, and supported me in continually improving the quality of care and education provided to children and families.
One of the main ways the qualification supports my role is by helping me develop a more strategic approach to leadership. It encourages me to think beyond the day-to-day operations and consider the long-term development of the nursery. This includes reflecting on how systems, processes, and leadership practices can be improved to support staff, enhance the quality of provision, and ensure positive outcomes for children.
The course has also helped me improve my decision-making and problem-solving skills. Through the learning modules and discussions with my tutor, I am able to explore different leadership models and apply these to real situations within the nursery. This allows me to approach challenges more thoughtfully and implement solutions that support both the team and the overall running of the setting.
Another important benefit is the development of my communication and team leadership skills. The qualification has encouraged me to reflect on how I lead and support staff, helping me to create a more positive and collaborative working environment. This has strengthened my ability to guide staff, provide constructive feedback, and support their professional development.
Additionally, the focus on reflective practice and continuous improvement aligns closely with the expectations of high-quality early years provision. It encourages me to regularly evaluate my leadership and identify ways to further improve the nursery.
Overall, the qualification has had a positive impact on my ability to lead the nursery effectively. It has enhanced my leadership knowledge, strengthened my confidence in managing the setting, and supported me in continually improving the quality of care and education provided to children and families.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes, there are a range of additional activities within the nursery that enrich the experiences of both children and staff and support the wider curriculum. These activities help provide children with varied learning opportunities beyond the classroom and strengthen engagement with the local community.
One of the key activities we offer is Forest School sessions, where children regularly spend time outdoors exploring the natural environment. These sessions encourage children to develop confidence, independence, and problem-solving skills while learning about nature through hands-on experiences such as exploring natural materials, building, and outdoor discovery.
We also incorporate Funzo Phonics sessions into our provision. These sessions support children’s early literacy development in a fun and engaging way, helping them build confidence with sounds, letters, and early reading skills through interactive activities, songs, and games.
In addition to this, we organise sports and physical activities to promote healthy lifestyles and physical development. These activities help children develop coordination, teamwork, and confidence while encouraging them to enjoy being active.
We also arrange educational visits to places such as local museums, libraries, and farms. These outings give children the opportunity to explore new environments, learn about the wider world, and build on their interests through real-life experiences. Visiting the library encourages a love of books and storytelling, museum visits help children learn about history and culture, and farm visits allow them to learn about animals and where food comes from.
Overall, these extra activities play an important role in enhancing the nursery curriculum, supporting children’s development across different areas of learning, and providing enjoyable experiences that extend beyond the nursery environment.
One of the key activities we offer is Forest School sessions, where children regularly spend time outdoors exploring the natural environment. These sessions encourage children to develop confidence, independence, and problem-solving skills while learning about nature through hands-on experiences such as exploring natural materials, building, and outdoor discovery.
We also incorporate Funzo Phonics sessions into our provision. These sessions support children’s early literacy development in a fun and engaging way, helping them build confidence with sounds, letters, and early reading skills through interactive activities, songs, and games.
In addition to this, we organise sports and physical activities to promote healthy lifestyles and physical development. These activities help children develop coordination, teamwork, and confidence while encouraging them to enjoy being active.
We also arrange educational visits to places such as local museums, libraries, and farms. These outings give children the opportunity to explore new environments, learn about the wider world, and build on their interests through real-life experiences. Visiting the library encourages a love of books and storytelling, museum visits help children learn about history and culture, and farm visits allow them to learn about animals and where food comes from.
Overall, these extra activities play an important role in enhancing the nursery curriculum, supporting children’s development across different areas of learning, and providing enjoyable experiences that extend beyond the nursery environment.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Bonnie Bear Day Care to a friend?
Yes
Why?
We are extremely proud to have recently been recognised as Apprentice Employer of the Year with Best Practice Network. This award reflects the strong commitment we have to supporting apprentices within our nursery and investing in the future early years workforce.
We place a strong focus on creating a supportive learning environment where apprentices feel valued, guided, and encouraged to develop their skills. We dedicate time to mentoring apprentices, providing regular guidance, supervision, and opportunities for them to build confidence within their roles. Apprentices are supported both academically and practically, allowing them to apply their learning directly within the nursery environment.
As part of this support, apprentices are given opportunities to take on increasing responsibility, develop their knowledge of early years practice, and gain hands-on experience working alongside experienced practitioners. We ensure they receive constructive feedback and encouragement throughout their training so that they feel supported in their professional development.
Because of the time and dedication invested in our apprentices, they are able to complete their courses feeling confident, capable, and well prepared for their newly qualified roles. Many of our apprentices progress into permanent roles within the nursery, which helps us maintain a strong and consistent team.
Winning this award recognises the importance we place on developing staff and maintaining high standards of practice. Supporting apprentices is something we are passionate about, as it not only benefits the individuals but also strengthens the quality of care and education we provide for children and families.
We place a strong focus on creating a supportive learning environment where apprentices feel valued, guided, and encouraged to develop their skills. We dedicate time to mentoring apprentices, providing regular guidance, supervision, and opportunities for them to build confidence within their roles. Apprentices are supported both academically and practically, allowing them to apply their learning directly within the nursery environment.
As part of this support, apprentices are given opportunities to take on increasing responsibility, develop their knowledge of early years practice, and gain hands-on experience working alongside experienced practitioners. We ensure they receive constructive feedback and encouragement throughout their training so that they feel supported in their professional development.
Because of the time and dedication invested in our apprentices, they are able to complete their courses feeling confident, capable, and well prepared for their newly qualified roles. Many of our apprentices progress into permanent roles within the nursery, which helps us maintain a strong and consistent team.
Winning this award recognises the importance we place on developing staff and maintaining high standards of practice. Supporting apprentices is something we are passionate about, as it not only benefits the individuals but also strengthens the quality of care and education we provide for children and families.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Bonnie Bear Day Care?
Applicants who are considering applying to Bonnie Bear Day Care should be prepared to demonstrate a genuine passion for working with young children and a commitment to providing high-quality care and education. We look for individuals who are enthusiastic about early years practice and who understand the importance of supporting children’s development during these crucial early stages of life.
One important piece of advice would be to show a willingness to learn and develop. We strongly support professional development within the nursery, particularly through apprenticeships and training opportunities. Candidates who are open to learning new skills, reflecting on their practice, and continuously improving are well suited to our setting.
It is also important to be team-oriented and supportive of colleagues. Our nursery works closely as a team, and good communication and collaboration are essential to ensure that children receive the best possible care. Being positive, reliable, and willing to support others makes a big difference in creating a strong working environment.
Applicants should also be ready to actively engage with the children’s learning and experiences. At Bonnie Bear Day Care we value enriching activities such as outdoor learning, educational visits, phonics sessions, and physical activities. Showing creativity, enthusiasm, and an ability to interact with children in a meaningful and nurturing way is highly valued.
Finally, I would encourage applicants to be themselves and demonstrate their passion for early years education during the application and interview process. We value individuals who are caring, dedicated, and motivated to make a positive difference in children’s lives. Those who bring enthusiasm, a positive attitude, and a commitment to safeguarding and child development will thrive within our nursery environment.
One important piece of advice would be to show a willingness to learn and develop. We strongly support professional development within the nursery, particularly through apprenticeships and training opportunities. Candidates who are open to learning new skills, reflecting on their practice, and continuously improving are well suited to our setting.
It is also important to be team-oriented and supportive of colleagues. Our nursery works closely as a team, and good communication and collaboration are essential to ensure that children receive the best possible care. Being positive, reliable, and willing to support others makes a big difference in creating a strong working environment.
Applicants should also be ready to actively engage with the children’s learning and experiences. At Bonnie Bear Day Care we value enriching activities such as outdoor learning, educational visits, phonics sessions, and physical activities. Showing creativity, enthusiasm, and an ability to interact with children in a meaningful and nurturing way is highly valued.
Finally, I would encourage applicants to be themselves and demonstrate their passion for early years education during the application and interview process. We value individuals who are caring, dedicated, and motivated to make a positive difference in children’s lives. Those who bring enthusiasm, a positive attitude, and a commitment to safeguarding and child development will thrive within our nursery environment.
