Featured Apprentice Story

Lianna is an Early Years Practitioner at Kiddi Caru Day Nursery & Preschool located in Walnut Tree, Milton Keynes. The nursery is part of the Grandir UK, a large family of over 80 nurseries based across the UK ensuring every single child experiences the best start in life, encouraging them to flourish and grow to shape their future years.

During the scorching heatwave of Summer 2022, Lianna secured an apprenticeship at the nursery after a successful interview. However, on July 19, 2022, at 12:03 pm, a fire erupted in the vicinity, causing extensive damage to the nursery. The nursery staff received commendations for ensuring the safety of the children in their care.

Unaware of the fire due to not having started her apprenticeship, Lianna was puzzled by the lack of communication since her initial offer. Upon calling the nursery, she learned about the fire and, deeply moved by the situation, offered her assistance. With the nursery building destroyed, a temporary portacabin was set up to accommodate the children and staff until restoration. The portacabin opened on September 4, 2022, coinciding with Lianna's first day of her apprenticeship.

Navigating the challenges of this transition, Lianna demonstrated compassion and resilience in her new role. Despite the initial anxiety and stress, she played a crucial role in helping the team settle the children, ensuring they felt safe and content in their temporary surroundings. Inspired by her colleagues' courage and determination, Lianna was motivated to contribute to the stability of the families affected.

In September 2024, the nursery finally reopened, and everyone returned to the renovated building. For Lianna, this marked another transition as she had only experienced working in the portacabin environment. Nevertheless, she swiftly adapted and excelled, successfully completing her apprenticeship. Lianna now contemplates her next stage of personal development, showcasing a readiness to tackle any challenge. Her passion for her work serves as an inspiration for new apprentices joining the team.