A young apprentice is celebrating becoming a fully-fledged member of a County Durham nursery after completing her training.

Elise Overend, 20, started working at Clever Clogs Day Nursery in Bowburn in August 2024.

The qualification she undertook was a Level 3 Early Years apprenticeship.

Earlier this month Elise successfully completed the training and development programme, meaning she is now a fully qualified Early Years Educator.

Elise, who works with pre-school children in the nursery’s Clever Thinkers room, said: “I am so pleased to have completed my apprenticeship, and very proud that I have passed it.

“I absolutely love being part of the nursery team and have worked so hard to constantly learn and develop while I have been undertaking my training.

“Everyone at the nursery has been so supportive since I joined, and I want to thank them for helping me during my apprenticeship. Now I want to enjoy being fully qualified but I do still plan to develop my knowledge so I constantly better myself.”

Nursery Manager Vicky Harrison said: “We are so proud of Elise.

“From her first day with us, she has proved to be a real asset and has pushed herself throughout her apprenticeship to learn as much as possible about working in the nursery.

“The children love her and she really is a valued member of the Clever Clogs family. Well done Elise.”