Apprenticeship in Early Years Educator (Advanced)

Summary: This work based course develops the skills and knowledge needed for a wide range of careers working with children and young people.








Course description: All training on this course is delivered either in the workplace or at college, on a day release basis.
In this course, you will develop knowledge and skills relating to the children and young people's workforce which includes early learning and childcare, children's social care and learning development and support services.
The Advanced Apprenticeship confirms competence in this area and serves as the required qualification (for all new practitioners) for registration and regulatory requirements in the early learning and childcare sector. This framework is suitable for those working in a supervisory position in a childcare sector.
Students will often be working in a supervisory role (but not necessarily) within a nursery/early learning and childcare setting, or providing care for young children.
Additional measurable benefits include better team performance, productivity targets met or exceeded, quicker response time and reduced error rates.









Entry requirements: Entry is subject to a pre-enrolment interview to ascertain suitability for the programme and that potential candidates take into account the Principles and Values essential for working with children and young people. Potential candidates should:

be at least 18 years old

have prior experience of working in the sector

show enthusiasm to work with children and young people and be working for a minimum of 30 hours per week and a maximum of 48 hours – this is inclusive of any study days at college

have achieved a minimum of Grade C GCSE  in English Language and maths

have a suitable level of physical fitness to perform some aspects of the job roles

be willing to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Services (DBS) check
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16, whether they have just left school or have been working for years. As an apprenticeship is a work based qualification, applicants should either have an employer who has agreed to support them, or be seeking an apprenticeship position through our vacancies list. Once you have secured a position with an employer your training can begin.









Objective: Apprenticeships are work-based training programmes designed around the needs of employers, which lead to nationally recognised qualifications.









Academic progression: Successful students will be able to progress to a Higher Apprenticeship in a related discipline or on to a stand alone level 4 qualification.









Career progression: Achievement of this pathway will enable apprentices to access higher level jobs within the sector for instance nursery supervisor, nursery manager, pre-school manager/co-ordinator, etc. There is also opportunity for apprentices to go on to further study at higher levels, particularly working towards a Foundation Degree in Early Years. This in turn will support the achievement of Early Years Professional Status (Graduate level).








Costs: Training on the Apprenticeships programme is currently funded for apprentices aged 16 - 18 years at the time of enrolment.  An employer contribution is required for those aged either 19+ or who have a level 4 or higher qualification.