Developing Confident Care Professionals Through Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are often considered a pathway to starting a new career, but they can also be a great avenue for staff development.

Keswick Care, a residential organisation providing specialist support for children and young people, has been working in partnership with Barnsley College to embed apprenticeships into its workforce development strategy, supporting staff at every stage of their career.

Creating clear progression pathways

Apprenticeships have enabled Keswick Care to develop talent internally and support staff to progress into leadership roles.

Robyn Sharpin, who joined Keswick Care in 2018, has progressed through several roles and is now a Registered Manager.

She credits the organisation’s commitment to staff development as a key factor in her journey. “Keswick Care is both child-focused and staff-focused, ensuring that our children are well cared for, while also supporting staff to grow and develop.”

Making a difference on the front line

For residential support workers, apprenticeships reinforce professional confidence and purpose. Residential Support Worker, Nicola Smith describes the impact of working in children’s residential care: “Support goes far beyond the classroom. It’s in the late-night conversations, the small victories, the setbacks, and the breakthroughs.”

“This work isn’t always easy, but it is meaningful, transformative and deeply rewarding.”

A bespoke approach to learning

Barnsley College has worked closely with Keswick Care to develop a bespoke learning and delivery plan for staff studying the Level 4 Children, Young People and Families Practitioner apprenticeship. The partnership also supports progression for team leaders and registered managers through online delivery of the Level 5 Children, Young People and Families Residential Pathway.

This flexible model ensures apprentices can balance high-quality learning with the demands of working in a residential care setting.

Supporting staff to grow and thrive

For Keswick Care, apprenticeships play a vital role in developing confident, capable practitioners who are equipped to deliver safe and compassionate care.

Lauren Harrison, Development Manager stated: “Staff at Keswick Care who are completing their apprenticeship are being supported to develop both professionally and personally. Through the programme, they gain new knowledge, practical skills, and recognised qualifications that strengthen their confidence and competence in their roles.
“The apprenticeship programme supports staff to better understand child development and the impact of early childhood experiences and trauma."

Lauren continues: “This learning helps staff better understand child development, particularly the impact of early childhood experiences and trauma, which is vital in delivering safe, informed, and compassionate care.”

A strong partnership

Keswick Care values the collaborative relationship with the College, highlighting the flexibility and personalised support offered to both learners and employers.

Lauren says about the collaboration: “The College is highly reliable and flexible, adapting to our needs as an employer and to the individual circumstances of learners. They provide strong, personalised support through regular one-to-one sessions alongside structured weekly learning.”

Clear communication and ongoing feedback helped ensure apprentices stay on track and feel supported throughout their programme.

Celebrating apprenticeships

Through its partnership with Barnsley College, Keswick Care has strengthened its workforce, supported staff progression and enhanced the quality of care provided to children and young people.

This National Apprenticeship Week, Barnsley College is proud to showcase how apprenticeships can support employers to grow their teams, develop future leaders, and make a lasting difference in their communities.