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Written by:
Shaping Lives has just released its first-ever Impact Report, and it’s an impressive, in-depth look at the progress, achievements, and positive outcomes created across the early years apprenticeship landscape over the past year. As an organisation deeply committed to supporting the early years workforce and championing greater gender diversity, we’re delighted to celebrate this milestone with them.
This inaugural report is far more than a collection of figures. At over 50 pages, it brings together surveys, learner feedback, employer insights, real imagery from apprentices and partner settings, and a clear narrative about the impact high-quality training can have on children, families, communities, and the sector as a whole.
Early years education is foundational to children’s development, and a skilled, confident workforce is essential in delivering the high-quality care every child deserves. The Impact Report gives a vivid picture of just how significant apprenticeships continue to be for strengthening that workforce.
Some of the standout highlights include:
These results underscore the huge value apprenticeships bring to early years settings, and the importance of investing in training providers who understand the real needs of nurseries and childcare organisations.
Alongside the data, the report shines a light on the experiences and achievements of learners from diverse backgrounds, celebrating the commitment and resilience required to succeed in early years roles. These stories illustrate just how transformative the apprenticeship journey can be – not only for the apprentices themselves, but for the children and families they support.
We particularly appreciated the use of primary imagery throughout the report. Seeing real apprentices, real employer partners, and real moments on the page adds authenticity and grounds the data in lived experience. It’s a reminder that every statistic represents a person whose work directly influences the life of a child.
One of the most exciting aspects of this report is that it gives a clear preview of Shaping Lives’ ambitions for next year’s edition. Their plans include:
This is something we’re particularly passionate about. With men still making up less than 3% of the early years workforce, visibility and representation matter deeply. Shaping Lives’ commitment to showcasing male apprentice journeys in next year’s report is a meaningful step forward, and we’re excited to support this work in partnership.
This first Impact Report sends a clear message: when apprentices are well supported, well trained, and given opportunities to grow, the entire sector benefits. Children receive high-quality care, settings gain capable and confident team members, and apprentices are able to build long-term careers in a field that truly needs them.
We’re proud to celebrate this achievement with Shaping Lives. Their dedication to quality training, employer partnership, and continuous improvement is evident throughout the report, and we look forward to seeing the even more ambitious direction they take next year.
The 2025 Impact Report is an excellent reflection of Shaping Lives’ contribution to the early years workforce. It captures the scale of their work, the strength of their partnerships, and the positive outcomes experienced by apprentices and employers alike.
As advocates for a more inclusive, diverse, and supported early years sector, we’re encouraged by what this report represents – and we’re excited about the collaborative work ahead to ensure even more voices, including those of male apprentices, are heard in future editions.
A huge congratulations to the entire team at Shaping Lives on the successful launch of this important piece of work.
This article was crafted in collaboration with Mark Botha and Sarah Arnesen.
At Shaping Lives, Mark Botha and Sarah Arnesen lead with a shared passion for social mobility and inclusive education. Mark, CEO of Shaping Lives, has always guided success, achieving multiple Ofsted “Good” ratings and driving growth through a values-based culture.
With over 20 years of experience across education and training, he is committed to creating impactful apprenticeships that enable learners to reach their potential.
Sarah, a skilled Marketing and Communications Specialist, brings her expertise in strategic planning and stakeholder engagement to amplify Shaping Lives’ mission.
Her background in crafting effective marketing campaigns ensures that Shaping Lives connects meaningfully with its audience, driving awareness and inclusivity in early years education.
Together, Mark and Sarah foster a supportive environment for male apprentices in early years, promoting a diverse workforce that benefits children and communities alike.
Nutritional Therapist and Early Years NutritionConsultant
At the intersection of health, nutrition, and early years education stands Louise Mercieca, a dynamic force in the realm of nutritional well-being for young children. A prolific writer with numerous articles and the notable book ‘How Food Shapes Your Child’ under her belt, she has delved deep into the intricacies of how food impacts a child’s development.
Her passion was kindled by two key elements: the journey she undertook with her young son and the extensive research she carried out for her debut book. Not just an author, Louise further extends her reach through the airwaves with her radio show ‘Food For Thought’ on Teacher Hug Radio.
Louise’s commitment doesn’t stop at raising awareness. As an Early Years Nutrition Consultant, she actively collaborates on menu development and nutritional education, ensuring that children receive a balanced and informed start to their dietary journey. Her driving belief is unequivocal: by understanding the bond between food and biology early on, we can preemptively address and potentially prevent many health and dietary issues adults grapple with later in life.
Her dedication to this cause positions her as a beacon for professionals in the Early Years sector, guiding them to understand the pivotal role food plays in holistic child health.
Chef Trainer at LEYF
In the vibrant world of child nutrition and culinary training, Sean Cowden shines as a beacon of expertise and dedication. As of 2022, he took the reins as Chef Trainer for LEYF’s esteemed Early Years Chef Academy courses. Initiated by LEYF in 2019, the Early Years Chef Academy emerged from a pressing need: to guarantee that young learners receive the essential, nutritious food vital for their growth and cognitive development. Through this initiative, chefs are meticulously trained not only in the culinary arts but also in the nuances of child nutrition, sculpting them into experts that inspire children, staff, and parents alike to cultivate lifelong healthy eating habits.
Before his esteemed tenure at LEYF Nurseries, Sean donned the hat of a Head Chef at an independent school, bringing his culinary flair to the academic arena. Additionally, his role as a Training Specialist for Gail’s Bakery further showcases his diverse expertise and unwavering commitment to the world of culinary arts and education.