By Karl Eaveson, Personal Tutor at Shaping Lives. Behind every successful apprenticeship is a web of support that often goes unseen; the quiet encouragement, the honest conversations, and the reassurance offered at just the right moment. At Shaping Lives, we believe these relationships are just as important as the qualifications themselves. As a Personal Tutor,…
Dr. Andy Hogg is a highly experienced education professional and the founder of The Support School (TSS). He has over 30 years of experience supporting pupils with additional needs across the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) spectrum and in English as an Additional Language (EAL/ESOL). Andy works for Shaping Lives as a Learning Support…
Today marks the start of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2026, running from 9th–15th February 2026, a moment that brings people and organisations across the country together to celebrate the incredible difference apprenticeships make. From shaping meaningful careers to supporting strong and confident teams, this weeklong celebration highlights how apprenticeships open doors, build essential skills, and create opportunities…
Let’s face it, starting something new can feel a bit scary. Whether you’re fresh out of school or thinking about a career change, stepping into the unknown takes courage. But it’s also where exciting things begin. Step into a rewarding career in Early Years! We’re here to help you turn that nervous energy into something…
Today, we’re Celebrating National Practitioners Day. We proudly celebrate the incredible nursery practitioners and apprentices who dedicate their time, energy, and hearts to shaping the future, one child at a time. At Shaping Lives, we believe that early years education is one of the most powerful forces for good in our society. Nursery practitioners are…
We believe in empowering individuals to build meaningful careers in early years education and support services. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience, earn while you learn, and achieve nationally recognised qualifications. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about apprenticeships. What is an Apprenticeship? An apprenticeship is…
At Shaping Lives, we believe that learning is a lifelong journey. One that begins in early childhood and flourishes through family, community, and connection. That’s why we’re proud to support the Family Learning Festival 2025! A nationwide celebration of learning together as a family, running from 4 October to 2 November 2025. What is the…
With the Department for Education’s “Do Something Big” campaign putting male recruitment in early years back in the spotlight, now is the perfect time for us as employers to reflect on how welcoming and inclusive our settings truly are. Encouraging more men into the workforce isn’t just about ticking a diversity box – it’s about…
Arti’s Adventures has officially wrapped up, and what an incredible journey it’s been! Our friendly little explorer has been busy visiting nurseries across the country, sparking creativity, kindness, and plenty of giggles along the way. From imaginative storytelling to teamwork and learning through play, Arti has made a big impact, and we’ve loved seeing every…
Imagine spending your day in a space full of curiosity, wonder, and little hands reaching out to learn; that’s the life of an Early Years Practitioner. Simply put, it’s someone who nurtures babies, toddlers, and pre-schoolers as they take their first exciting steps in learning and discovering the world. Across the UK, an Early Years…
