Learn Plus Us is the trading name of Simply One Stop Limited; we are an Apprenticeship and Skills training provider, approved by the DfE/ESFA on the apprenticeship provider and assessment register (APAR). Our head office is in Barnet, however our training delivery covers all nine English regions. Founded in 2003, since 2009 we have been delivering Apprenticeships and Diplomas through the Advanced Learner Loans scheme and have held various other funding contracts.
We work together with employers and individual learners to design and deliver training that meets their needs. We are proud to have formed trusted partnerships with over 160 organisations across 5 sectors. These partnerships include; nurseries and childcare providers, housing associations, local councils, restaurants, bars, hotels and customer service centres.
In March 2020 Learn Plus Us was acquired by the Angus Knight Group (AKG) and in February 2023 we merged the Apprenticeship division from Catch22 into Learn Plus Us.
“Our mission is to empower individuals to learn, achieve and excel.”
We want to empower individuals with the confidence, knowledge and support they need to be the best version of themselves in the workplace and beyond.
Our vision as a leading training provider, is to offer innovative and high-quality learning experiences. We support all learners to excel regardless of their background or prior attainment.
Our intent is to support learners to develop:
• A desire for lifelong learning.
• Personal growth which builds their knowledge, skills and behaviours.
• Pursue a successful career.
• Develop as individuals regardless of their background or starting point.
Can you introduce yourself, what you do and how long you have been doing it?
My name is Shelby, I am a childminder in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire. I’ve worked with children since I was 15 years old through work experience, I’m now 30 years old with my own business in childcare!
When I was 21, my manager at the time asked if I’d like to get a Level 3 qualification in Childcare – I said absolutely! I was put in touch with Learn Plus Us and this where my journey began.
Describe your business and what you enjoy most about it
I love my job; I am now a childminder in my own home with an assistant who is currently doing an apprenticeship with Learn Plus Us herself! I work 4 days a week, I have more flexibility for my own children and enjoy teaching children and watching them develop in my care.
What made you take on an apprenticeship?
I had just been engaged and was trying for my son. I didn’t do well at school and struggled with the learning side of things, I’m much better as a practical learner. I knew I wanted to better myself, so I decided do a Level 3 qualification with Learn Plus Us. Whilst doing the course, I fell pregnant and had my first-born son. I continued my studies and never gave up. I remember the nights where I would feed my son with a laptop on my lap whilst working and feeding at the same time. It was tough but so worth it.
Describe how the apprenticeship has helped to progress your career If I didn’t have my apprenticeship, I wouldn’t have had the roles I have had in childcare. I went on to complete the Level 4 qualification with Learn Plus Us, as I had such a great experience the first time with my assessor. I was able to work from the bottom to the top as a nursery manager, later in life I chose to be a childminder and I never looked back. What were some challenges you faced during your studies and how did you overcome them? My biggest challenge was having a baby at 22 years old, with postnatal depression, but carrying on. I never stopped. I didn’t want to give up, it’s not in my nature. I had tough times, but I knew what I wanted, and I made sure I did it. I was very proud of myself for it, and always will be.
What were your standout moments from your apprenticeship?
I enjoyed being graded and getting my marks, I was over the moon with my positive feedback. I had a great relationship with my assessor, she made me feel so comfortable and happy and I still have a place in my heart for her now. She made me carry on no matter what.
