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Looking for a rewarding career that makes a real impact? Join our Shaping Lives apprenticeship programme and become part of a passionate community dedicated to shaping the future of childcare. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upskill, our apprenticeships offer hands-on experience, expert guidance, and the opportunity to work in nurturing environments.
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Shaping Lives Impact Report is here
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How apprenticeships are reshaping early years education one learner, one nursery and one tiny orangutan at a time… What do nearly two thousand apprentices, over a thousand employer partners, and one very busy baby orangutan have in common? They’re all part of a year that proved just how powerful Early Years apprenticeships can be…
Shaping Lives achieves Matrix Standard reaccreditation for excellence in Early Years and Childcare Guidance
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Shaping Lives, the Early Years and Childcare brand of Paragon Skills, is proud to announce its successful reaccreditation to the Matrix Standard; the international benchmark for organisations delivering high-quality information, advice, and guidance (IAG). As part of the Knovia Group, Shaping Lives benefits from shared business support functions while maintaining a clear focus on delivering…
Celebrating the Power of Apprenticeships: The 2025 Shaping Lives Apprenticeship Awards Are Here!
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We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the 2025 Apprenticeship Awards, a celebration of the incredible achievements of apprentices and employers across the Knovia Group, including our very own Shaping Lives. This year marks a special milestone. For the first time, each brand within the Knovia Group; Paragon Skills, Shaping Lives, Tempdent, and Babington is…
Celebrating the Winner of Arti’s Adventures!
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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…
The Functional Skills Reform: What It Means for Your Apprentices in Early Years Education
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The government has recently announced an immediate reform to the exit requirements for adult apprenticeships (19+). As part of this change, the mandatory requirement to pass Functional Skills tests in English and maths has been removed. While this may sound like a significant shift, it’s important to remember that for those working in Early Years…
Celebrating International Women’s Day 2025: Accelerating Action for Equality
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International Women’s Day, celebrated worldwide on March 8th, is a powerful reminder of the strides women have made and the work that still lies ahead. In 2025, with the theme “Accelerate Action,” we’re encouraged to look ahead, push for faster progress, and ensure the momentum we’ve built continues to uplift women everywhere. This day is…
Shape Tomorrow, Today: The Value of Apprenticeships for Your Career
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In today’s competitive job market, standing out and gaining hands-on experience is more important than ever. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through apprenticeships. They’re not just about learning—they’re about growing, building, and shaping your future. Apprenticeships give you the perfect blend of real-world experience and academic learning, setting you up…
National Careers Week 2025: Shape Your Future with Confidence
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Choosing a career can be one of the most exciting yet daunting decisions we make. Whether you’re stepping into the workforce for the first time, looking for a fresh start, or aiming to build on the experience you already have, the journey is full of possibilities. National Careers Week 2025 is here to support you…
Rekindle the Spark: Finding Your Perfect Match in Early Years Apprenticeships this Valentine’s Day
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Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate love and connections—whether it’s between individuals, businesses, or even educational teams. For childcare employers, finding the right apprentice can be just as special as finding that perfect match. At Shaping Lives, we’re here to help you find the perfect apprentice to grow and thrive within your nursery,…
Top 10 Reasons to Kickstart Your Career with an Apprenticeship in 2025
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Are you ready to shape your future? Whether you’re looking to level up in your current role or change career paths entirely, an apprenticeship could be the perfect way to take that next step. In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we’ve put together 10 reasons why pursuing an apprenticeship could be the exciting opportunity…
