Early Years Workplace Mentor

• Bows and Arrows
• Address: 160 Hadleigh Road Ipswich Suffolk IP2 0HH
• Salary: £35,360 per annum FTE £17 per hour
• Hours: 20 hours per week
• Contract: Fixed term for 36 months
• Reference: 0863

Bows and Arrows are seeking an Early Years Workplace Mentor to mentor and support nine colleagues undertaking the Early Years Teacher Degree Apprenticeship from September 2026. This is a rewarding opportunity to use your expertise to develop future leaders in early education, helping apprentices translate university learning into outstanding practice across our seven nursery settings in Ipswich, Suffolk.

You will coach, observe and support apprentices throughout the programme, working closely with nursery leaders and university tutors to ensure apprentices build confidence, skills and leadership capability.

Your responsibilities

• Coach and mentor apprentices to build confidence, skills and leadership capability.
• Observe practice and provide constructive feedback.
• Support progress against apprenticeship requirements and professional standards.
• Work closely with nursery leaders and university tutors.
• Provide wellbeing, pastoral and professional support throughout the programme.
• Help apprentices successfully complete their degree apprenticeship.

What you will need

• At least three years’ experience in a leadership or management role within early years.
• Strong knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage.
• Experience coaching, mentoring or developing others.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• A commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for children.
• Desirable: Level 6 qualification or above, teaching or coaching qualification, and experience supporting apprentices or students.

About us

At Bows and Arrows, we believe great early years education starts with great people. As a charity operating seven nurseries across Ipswich, we are committed to developing talent, supporting professional growth and creating opportunities that make a lasting difference to children and families.

What we will offer you

• Ongoing professional development.
• Employee discount.
• Health and wellbeing programme.
• Sick pay.

For more information

Please visit our website

Please contact Bows and Arrow, by calling 01473 599038.

How to apply

Please send an up-to-date CV detailing your qualifications and relevant experience. Applications will be assessed against the requirements of the role and shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview on a rolling basis. Early application is advised.

Please submit your completed Application Form via email to: anne.denny@bowsandarrowsgroup.co.uk

Closing date: 21 August 2026.

Interview date: 20 August and/or Wednesday 26 August 2026.