Start your career in childcare
Lauren - Aspiring Speech and Language Therapist
Lauren’s career in childcare began with a simple desire: to help people. After studying Health and Social Care at college, she discovered an apprenticeship opportunity at a private day nursery and jumped at the chance. Starting during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lauren was quickly thrown into the deep end—working with a skeleton team and learning fast.
Despite the challenges, she thrived. Her Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification was supported by hands-on experience and a dedicated assessor. Lauren built strong bonds with children and families, and found particular joy in supporting children with speech and language needs. She led “Language Box” sessions for children with English as an additional language and those receiving speech therapy, helping them go from saying just a few words to speaking in full sentences.
After leaving nursery work, Lauren explored roles as a nanny and healthcare assistant, but her passion for communication support led her to pursue a degree in Speech and Language Therapy. Now in her third year of an integrated master’s programme, she’s thriving academically and professionally—thanks to the foundation her childcare experience provided.
Lauren’s ambition is to open her own paediatric speech and language practice, offering free support to families who can’t afford private therapy. Her story is a testament to the power of apprenticeships, the impact of early years professionals, and the life-changing difference that communication support can make.
“Helping a child find their voice is the most incredible feeling.”