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 hosting its own awards to shine a spotlight on the talent, dedication, and impact of apprenticeships in their sectors. It’s a moment to recognise the people who are shaping the future of care, childcare, dental, and professional services and doing it with passion, purpose, and excellence.
Celebrating Employers Who Go the Extra Mile
Behind every successful apprentice is a supportive employer, and this year’s winners have truly raised the bar.
Childcare Levy Employer of the Year: Teddies Nursery
Teddies Nursery has shown real commitment to supporting their team’s growth. From the very start, they’ve taken a thoughtful, learner-first approach, choosing the right provider and making sure their apprentice feels supported every step of the way.
They’ve created space for learning, giving their team member time away from the room to focus on her apprenticeship and attend workshops. Their passion for upskilling and nurturing talent makes them a standout employer and a well-deserved winner.
Childcare SME Employer of the Year: Little Rockets Day Nursery
Little Rockets Day Nursery has shown an exceptional commitment to apprenticeships, creating a supportive and inspiring environment where learners can thrive. Their focus on nurturing talent and encouraging growth has made a real difference, not just to their apprentices, but to the children and families they serve.
With a strong culture of learning and development, Little Rockets empowers staff to build confidence, gain new skills, and progress in their careers. Their dedication to high-quality early years education makes them a truly deserving winner.
These employers are leading the way, showing what it means to nurture talent and create real opportunities for people to succeed.
Spotlight on Learner Success
Apprenticeships are all about growth, resilience, and making a difference, and this year’s learner winners embody all of that and more.
Childcare Learner of the Year (16–24): Kate James, Brixworth Day Nursery
Kate has shown outstanding dedication and growth in her early years role. Her enthusiasm, motivation, and genuine passion for working with young children shine through in everything she does.
She’s always looking for ways to improve, often researching new ideas in her own time to enhance children’s learning. Her proactive attitude and caring nature make her a brilliant early years practitioner. Kate gives her all and continues to grow in confidence every day. She’s a truly deserving winner and a fantastic example of what apprenticeships can achieve.
Childcare Learner of the Year (25+): Jade Rimmer, Channings
Jade’s journey has been truly inspiring. Starting her Level 2 with no experience, she’s now close to completing her Level 3 and leading a room with confidence and care. Her commitment to learning and natural ability to nurture have made a real impact, on both the children she supports and the colleagues she uplifts.
Balancing full-time work, raising two young children, and supporting a husband in the Armed Forces, Jade has never let challenges hold her back. She’s turned them into motivation, consistently excelling in her studies and shining in her role.
These learners remind us why we do what we do. Their stories are full of heart, purpose, and the kind of impact that lasts a lifetime.
A Celebration of Progress and Possibility
To all our winners and finalists, congratulations! Your achievements inspire us and reflect the transformative power of apprenticeships. At Shaping Lives, we’re proud to be part of a community that’s shaping tomorrow, today.
📺 Missed the awards? You can still catch all the excitement and inspiration by watching the full awards videos on our YouTube channel. Let the stories of our winners motivate you and offer a glimpse into the future of early childhood education and care.
