Business Details
29 Years
experience
Trusted Early Years Apprenticeship Training in Scotland
Established in 1997, Carousel Training Centre is Scotland's largest provider of the Scottish Vocational Qualification in Social Services (Children and Young People) at SCQF Level 7. As a Scottish Qualifications Authority approved training centre, we specialise in delivering high-quality apprenticeship training to the Early Years sector. Our approach combines on-the-job learning with structured classroom sessions, ensuring apprentices develop practical skills aligned with Care Inspectorate standards.With a proven track record of supporting over 1,000 apprentices to qualification since inception, we maintain strong partnerships with nurseries across Scotland. Our team of experienced assessors provides regular workplace visits and tailored support, while our annual graduation ceremony celebrates achievements with industry stakeholders. As an equal opportunities provider, we prioritise accessibility and inclusivity in all our training programmes.
Services
Modern Apprenticeships
Childcare Training
Workplace Assessments
Graduation Ceremonies
Employer Partnerships
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We are Scotland's largest provider of SCQF Level 7 SVQ qualifications in childcare
- Our assessors provide regular workplace visits and tailored support
- We maintain partnerships with nurseries across Scotland for employment opportunities
- Our training combines practical experience with structured classroom learning
- We offer equal opportunities and inclusive training environments
Associations and certifications
- Scottish Qualifications Authority
What people say
Excellent support
Quality training
Career progression
Practical learning
Strong partnerships
Services
Modern Apprenticeships
Our Modern Apprenticeships combine workplace learning with structured training for Early Years practitioners. Apprentices gain SCQF Level 7 SVQ qualifications through 12-15 months of on-the-job experience and monthly classroom sessions. The programme includes regular assessor visits, portfolio development, and preparation for careers in childcare settings across Scotland.
Workplace Assessments
We provide regular workplace assessments to ensure apprentices meet industry standards. Our qualified assessors conduct scheduled visits to evaluate practical competency, offer feedback, and support portfolio development. This approach ensures apprentices can apply theoretical knowledge effectively in real childcare environments while maintaining Care Inspectorate compliance.
Graduation Ceremonies
Annual graduation ceremonies celebrate apprentices' successful completion of SVQ qualifications. Held at Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall, these events feature guest speakers from SQA and Skills Development Scotland. The ceremonies provide formal recognition of achievement, with photographic services and networking opportunities for graduates, employers, and families.
Employer Partnerships
We maintain partnerships with nurseries across Scotland to facilitate apprenticeship placements. Our services include matching employers with suitable candidates, providing training support, and offering guidance on apprenticeship funding. Employers benefit from structured training programmes that develop staff skills while meeting sector-specific qualification requirements.
Equal Opportunities
As an equal opportunities provider, we ensure accessibility for all apprentices. Our support includes reasonable adjustments for neurodiverse learners, male practitioners in female-dominated environments, and individuals with additional needs. Regular feedback mechanisms and tailored support packages help all apprentices achieve their full potential in Early Years education.
People
Sharon Nel
Quality Assurance Officer
With over 15 years' experience in vocational training, Sharon oversees quality assurance and accessibility at Carousel Training Centre. She manages adjustments for apprentices with additional needs and ensures compliance with Scottish Qualifications Authority standards.
Linda Duffy
Senior Assessor
An experienced childcare professional with 20+ years in Early Years education, Linda provides workplace assessments and mentorship. She specialises in supporting apprentices through portfolio development and practical competency evaluations across Glasgow nurseries.
Emma Gilmour
Assessment Team Lead
Emma leads a team of assessors delivering practical evaluations across Scotland. With a background in nursery management, she focuses on ensuring apprentices meet Care Inspectorate standards while developing their professional practice.
Karen Fleming
Senior Marketing Officer
Karen manages employer partnerships and candidate recruitment. With extensive sector knowledge, she promotes apprenticeship opportunities and facilitates connections between nurseries and prospective apprentices across Scotland.
Arlene Cameron
Classroom Instructor
A qualified childcare educator, Arlene delivers theory sessions at the Glasgow training centre. She specialises in making complex childcare concepts accessible through interactive workshops that support apprentices' practical learning experiences.
Questions
What apprenticeship qualifications do you offer?
We offer the Scottish Vocational Qualification in Social Services (Children and Young People) at SCQF Level 7 through Modern Apprenticeships.
How long does the apprenticeship take?
Most apprentices complete their qualification within 12-15 months through combined workplace and classroom learning.
Do apprentices attend classes?
Yes, apprentices attend theory classes one day every four weeks at our Glasgow training centre.
How are apprentices assessed?
Assessments combine workplace evaluations, portfolio development, and regular visits from our qualified assessors.
Are apprentices paid?
Yes, apprentices receive at least the National Minimum Wage for Apprentices while working and training.
Do you help with employment?
We partner with nurseries across Scotland to help apprentices secure employment during their training.
