To whom it may concern, I have been involved running our small rural Pre School in Dorset for around 10 years. We have used Side by Side Training on a number of occasions. In September 2013, they advertised and found us a Level 3 apprentice. She successfully completed her level 3 training to be an Early Years practitioner. She worked for us, supported by the supervisor, for 4 days a week, and studied at the training centre in Dorchester on the 5th Day. She found the course challenging, but with support from the team at Side by side she did gain her qualification. One of my staff undertook her level 2 training with side by side a couple of years later, and was again well supported by the team at side by side. That same member of staff is now studying again with Side by side to achieve her level 3 qualification, and although things have been challenging during the pandemic, they have been available to answer queries and offer support. My employee is progressing well towards her ultimate goal.
In September 2020, I approached Joy again and she was able to advertise and find me a wonderful new apprentice, who started with us in October 2020. Side by side have offered a blended approach to the learning aspect of the course with some face to face sessions at Dorchester, and some online ‘zoom’ type lessons. My apprentice is a quiet and sometimes a little anxious young lady, but with support and encouragement from Side by side, and from my team, she has already become a very popular and valued member of our team.
Joy and Julie have kept me informed of her progress, and have been on hand to offer support during these challenging times. Joy was also able to support me through the not ‘uncomplicated’ task of reserving the funding for an apprentice.
I would be happy to recommend Side by side training as a training partner for Early years Educators.
