Early Years Practitioner apprenticeship in childcare
Jan 27 2025
Early Years Practitioner apprenticeship in childcare
If you’re working in early years, or looking to begin a career in childcare, this complete childcare apprenticeship will give you the skills required to work with young children.
Level 2 apprenticeship in childcare
This level 2 apprenticeship is aimed at Nursery Assistants, Early Years Practitioners, Nursery Practitioners, or people without experience in the childcare sector. Whatever your level, an apprenticeship in childcare could be the ideal next step for you.
Once you have passed an apprenticeship, you hold a nationally-recognised qualification. That means you’ve proven your ability to learn and improve your skills in your area of work. When it comes to working in childcare, this is very important – you have to have the right qualifications to work with children.
Why choose our Early Years Apprenticeship?
We take a flexible and blended approach to learning, which means you’ll gain hands-on childcare experience in a range of early years settings, including:
- full day care
- children’s centres
- preschools
- reception classes
- home-based provision
- out of school environments.
Career opportunities from a childcare apprenticeship
Taking on an apprenticeship means you can earn while you learn, and many apprentices gain full-time employment at the place where they took their apprenticeship once they complete their course. Training for a career in childcare affords many opportunities for career advancement, making our Early Years Practitioner apprenticeship the ideal place to start.
Once you have completed your level 2 apprenticeship, you may choose to move on to levels 3 and 5. Alternatively, you may prefer to go on to further education (for example at college or university). A level 2 apprenticeship can open all of these doors for you.
Those who complete an apprenticeship have a higher earning potential over the course of their lifetime than those who hold no qualifications. You’re more likely to be hired for a job in future if you complete your apprenticeship in childcare.
Apprenticeship details
Our apprenticeship meets Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements for the learning, development and care of children from birth to five years old. Once you begin your apprenticeship, you’ll be matched with a childcare provider, who will employ you as their apprentice. General entry requirements apply, however employers can set their own entry requirements too.
The apprenticeship lasts for a minimum of eight months, and consists of a blend of direct teaching and self-directed learning.
Key skills
Though full training in childcare will be provided, if you’re aged 16-18, and have not previously achieved the required levels in English and maths, you will need to complete Functional Skills as part of your apprenticeship programme.
It is no longer mandatory for adult apprentices (19+) to complete Functional Skills. However, a good level of both literacy and numeracy remains essential for success.
If you don’t already have qualifications in English and Maths we recommend level 1 in maths and level 1 in English to support your training in childcare and future career.
Our tailored support ensures these skills are seamlessly integrated into the apprenticeship journey, helping every apprentice develop these vital skills.
Early Years Practitioner Factsheet
Enquire about a childcare apprenticeship
As an apprentice, you’ll gain a highly-regarded qualification, valuable work experience and get paid while you learn. If you have any more questions, please see our FAQs below.
Alternatively, you can call Connect2Care on 0800 9542 803.
Employers who wish to take on an apprentice can also contact us to find out more about the course, requirements for employers and next steps.
FAQs – Early Years practitioner apprenticeship
1. What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a real job with training. You’ll earn while you learn-gaining hands-on experience at work, plus structured training (in person or online) to build your knowledge.
At the end, you’ll walk away with a nationally recognised qualification and the skills to thrive in your role.
2. Who can do an apprenticeship?
You’re eligible if you:
- are 16 or over
- live in England
- are not in full-time education
The level you start at depends on your qualifications, the role, and the employer’s chosen apprenticeship standard.
3. How much does it cost?
It’s free! Your employer and the government cover the training costs. You might need to budget for extras like travel or equipment, but the core training won’t cost you anything.
4. What will I get paid?
As of April 2025 you’ll earn at least:
- £7.55/hour if you’re under 19 or in your first year (regardless of age)
- National Minimum Wage for your age if you’re over 19 and beyond year one
Many employers pay more than the minimum: the average apprentice pay is around £8.00/hour. Pay can vary by industry, location, and your experience.
5. Do I need English and maths?
If you’re 19 or older, English and maths aren’t a compulsory requirement to finish your apprenticeship. However, they’re still hugely important for progressing in your career – and in life – so it’s wise to keep building those skills.
6. How do I complete an apprenticeship?
You’ll take an End-Point Assessment (EPA) at the end of your programme. It’s your chance to show what you’ve learned-your knowledge, skills, and behaviours. Most apprenticeships are graded pass, merit, or distinction.
7. What if I have dyslexia or other learning needs?
Support is available – just speak up early. Your employer or training provider must make reasonable adjustments to help you succeed. Connect2Care’s SENDco team is dedicated to providing support, so that everyone is given the opportunity to succeed, and there are no barriers to learning.
8. Do I have to do a Level 2 before a Level 3 apprenticeship?
Not always. Some Level 3 apprenticeships require a Level 2 qualification or equivalent experience – but many don’t. Check the entry requirements of the programme you’re interested in to see what’s needed.
