You will need to have achieved at least five GCSE passes at Grade 5 or above, including Maths and/or English to enrol, plus any specific entry requirements for individual courses.
Start date:
Aug 2000
Course Overview
The Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship equips you with the advanced skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to work with children from birth to five years, supporting their care, learning, and development. This programme builds on the foundations of Level 2, preparing you for greater responsibility in early years settings.
As an apprentice, you will plan and lead child-initiated and adult-led activities, tailored to individual needs and interests, and support children’s learning through purposeful play. You will also gain expertise in safeguarding, child development, health and wellbeing, and inclusive practice, ensuring every child feels safe, secure, and valued.
Working as part of a team, you will develop leadership skills and contribute to creating positive, nurturing environments that help children thrive. This apprenticeship provides an excellent route into supervisory roles within nurseries, schools, and childcare providers, and lays the foundation for further professional development in early years education.
Course Overview
Child Development and Theories of Learning – supporting growth and progress from birth to five years.
Safeguarding and Welfare – promoting children’s safety, wellbeing, and rights.
Curriculum and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) – planning and delivering purposeful learning opportunities.
Health and Wellbeing – supporting physical, emotional, and social development.
Inclusive Practice – working with children with additional needs or vulnerabilities.
Leadership and Teamwork – taking responsibility in leading activities and supporting colleagues.
Working with Families and Professionals – building effective partnerships with parents and other agencies.
Professional Practice – reflecting on performance and demonstrating key workplace behaviours.
Additional Information
We are an Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ College, recognised for exceptional teaching and learner support.
Apprentices benefit from Trainer Assessors with extensive early years experience, providing expert guidance throughout the programme.
The course has been developed with employers, ensuring it meets sector needs and prepares you for real-world practice.
Apprentices feel valued, supported, and encouraged, enabling them to build confidence and thrive.
Strong links with local nurseries, schools, and early years providers provide excellent training and progression opportunities.
How is the course delivered?
The apprenticeship is delivered through a blend of on-the-job learning in early years settings and off-the-job training at college. In the workplace, you will gain practical experience planning and leading activities, observing child development, and supporting children’s learning. At college, you will take part in workshops, tutorials, and group sessions that focus on theory, policy, and best practice in early years education.
Regular workplace visits and one-to-one mentoring from Trainer Assessors provide personalised support. Learning is directly applied to your role, ensuring you gain the confidence, knowledge, and skills required to meet the standards of a professional Early Years Educator.
How my learning will be assessed?
Workplace observations to evidence your practice in real settings
Written assignments and knowledge tests to demonstrate understanding
Portfolio completion showcasing your achievements and professional development
Regular progress reviews with your employer and Trainer Assessor
End Point Assessment (EPA) – independently assessed, and may include a professional discussion, knowledge test, and observation of your practice
Course Facilities
As an Early Years Educator apprentice, you will benefit from access to specialist childcare and education facilities. These include modern classrooms equipped with interactive learning technology, practical spaces designed for early years training, and access to resources that mirror real childcare settings.
You will also be supported by the Learning Resource Centre, offering early years texts, journals, and online resources to enhance your studies. Strong employer partnerships and placements in nurseries, schools, and childcare providers ensure your training is practical, hands-on, and directly relevant to the needs of the sector.
Potential Careers
Completing the Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship prepares you for a wide range of roles in childcare and education. These include Nursery Practitioner, Early Years Educator, Teaching Assistant, or Childminder, working in nurseries, pre-schools, or primary schools.
With further experience, you could progress into leadership positions such as Room Leader, Deputy Manager, or Nursery Manager. Many apprentices choose to continue their studies with higher-level qualifications, such as Foundation Degrees in Early Years or Education, which can lead to teaching or specialist roles. This apprenticeship provides an excellent pathway into a long-term, rewarding career in early years education.
