The broad purpose of the occupation is to be a proactive and influential practitioner, working directly with children, skilfully leading day to day practice at an operational level. As active practitioners they are effective role models of play based learning, supporting others to develop their own practice.
They are highly skilled professionals who take an operational lead for the care, learning and development of all young children within their care, adapting to individual needs providing inclusive and holistic provision. They engage with sector developments both locally and nationally, with a commitment to developing their own professional and educational competencies.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with children aged birth to eight years, families, practitioners, other professionals and appropriate agencies. An employee in this occupation will be responsible for supporting the quality of learning and development in their setting. They lead on the operational aspects of this provision and are typically responsible for leading other practitioners, an aspect or environment such as; Communication and Language, Planning and Assessment, Forest School, Physical Activity and Nutrition. They usually report directly to the head of the setting (The Manager, The Leader, The Director).
About this apprenticeship
The Early Years apprenticeships allow apprentices to gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours to work with children, ensuring that the learning environment and provision are inclusive and support all children, demonstrating a clear understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
At the end of your apprenticeship at each level, you will undertake an End Point Assessment which consists of an observation and a professional discussion. Students must also achieve their GCSE maths and English grades 4 and above or Level 2 Functional skills in Maths and English. Students without GCSE can be supported to achieve Functional Skills by the college.
From our apprenticeships, you will become a highly skilled professional who can take an operational lead for the care, learning and development of all young children within their care, adapting to individual needs and providing an inclusive and holistic provision.
Your progression
Following the completion of each Level, you’ll be able to progress to the Early Years Educator and Early Years Lead Practitioner. Following the completion of Level 3, you can become a Teaching Assistant or Nursery Manager. After completing Level 5, you’ll be able to explore options including a Level 6 Early Years Teacher (Early Years Teacher Status).
Funding and bursaries
Students if you’re aged over 19 you may be eligible for free tuition depending on the course you want to study, your existing qualifications and your financial circumstances. For more information email info@totton.ac.uk or call 023 8087 4874.
Advanced Learner Loans are available for students who are aged 19 or over. Repayments do not begin until the course is completed and you are earning £25,000 or over. Eligible learners will be enrolling on a level 3 or above course and are a UK or EU national. For further information, visit gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan.
