Kailey Groves, manager and owner of successful daycare nursery Mini Acorns, is currently completing a professional practice in childcare level 4 qualification with Educ8 Training. After establishing her nursery two years ago and growing it from a small playgroup into a fully developed childcare setting, Kailey recognised the need to strengthen her leadership capabilities through a structured course.
Background and experience
With a Level 3 qualification in Childcare and Qualified Teacher Status, Kailey brings a strong foundation of knowledge from her previous career as a teacher. Transitioning into business ownership required her to expand her skill set beyond childcare and into effective leadership. This motivated her to enrol onto a work-based apprenticeship, allowing her to gain essential training while continuing to run her nursery.
At Educ8, our apprenticeships are designed to be flexible and practical for employers and employees. Allowing individuals to gain nationally recognised qualifications whilst completing daily work in their role.
Motivation for leadership training
Kailey chose to pursue a level 4 professional practice in childcare course primarily for self-development and to discover new knowledge that would benefit both her and her team.
As her nursery continued to grow, she understood the importance of formal training to support decision-making, team management and long-term business success. The flexibility of work-based apprenticeships made it possible for her to integrate learning into her daily responsibilities.
Learning experience
A key factor in Kailey’s positive experience has been the support provided by her trainer coach, Abigail John, who has direct nursery experience. This ensures that the training she receives is relevant and practical. Kailey values the way her coach breaks down complex topics to help her fully understand each task, making the level 4 qualification both accessible and engaging.
Throughout the programme, Kailey has developed confidence in her ability to complete assignments and apply new concepts in practice. She particularly enjoyed writing an essay on trauma-informed approaches, which she found both interesting and beneficial to her role. The knowledge gained through her apprenticeship is already enhancing her ability to lead her team and create a supportive environment within the nursery.
Personal development and Welsh Language Skills
In addition to professional growth, the apprenticeship has encouraged Kailey to focus on personal development. Completing the qualification has motivated her to improve her Welsh language skills, and she now uses Duolingo daily to build her vocabulary. Utilising the Welsh language in the workplace can be a vital skill, which Kailey recognises.
Impact on confidence
As a result of her ongoing professional training, Kailey feels more confident in communicating ideas and sharing knowledge with her team. She is now better equipped to relay information clearly and implement improvements within her setting. The practical nature of work-based apprenticeships has allowed her to immediately apply her learning, strengthening her overall leadership approach.
Inspiring Others and Future Outlook
Kailey’s journey has also had a positive impact on her workplace. Her sister, who works at the nursery, is also undertaking a qualification. Kailey actively recommends funded apprenticeships in Wales to others, recognising the value of accessible and flexible training.
By undertaking a professional practice in childcare level 4 qualification, Kailey Groves is enhancing her leadership capabilities and driving the continued success of her nursery. Her experience highlights the effectiveness of apprenticeship courses delivered through work-based apprenticeships, demonstrating how tailored training can empower business owners to grow, adapt and lead with confidence.
We are currently delivering our childcare courses in level 2 and 3, to find out more and build your childcare expertise, click here.
For leadership and management courses, please click here.
