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Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship

Study Area: 16-18

Duration: 12 months

Attendance: full time

The Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship is an ideal entry point for individuals looking to start or develop a career in the early years and childcare sector. This apprenticeship is designed for those working in nurseries, pre-schools, school nursery settings, or other early years environments, providing the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to support the learning, development, and wellbeing of children from birth to five years of age. As an Early Years Practitioner, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. You’ll work under the guidance of experienced early years professionals, developing the skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to provide high-quality care and education that supports children’s individual needs and promotes positive outcomes.

Modules/Highlights:

You will learn to:

• Support children’s learning, play, and development through planned activities and everyday experiences

• Promote children’s health, safety, wellbeing, and safeguarding in line with current legislation and policies

• Build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues to support children’s development

• Observe, assess, and contribute to planning activities that meet children’s individual needs

To enrol, you must be employed in a relevant role with an employer who will support your learning and development throughout the programme. Apprenticeships are work-based qualifications, so securing a job in the sector is essential before you can begin your training. If you are not currently employed, you can explore our latest apprenticeship vacancies. We also encourage you to proactively contact local employers to ask if they would consider taking you on as an apprentice. If an employer agrees to support your apprenticeship, please contact us at apprenticeships@calderdale.ac.uk so we can assess your suitability for the programme and begin the enrolment process. Alternatively, if you do not yet have an employer, you can apply for a full-time course as a starting point. Should you secure employment during your course, you can be transferred onto the apprenticeship pathway.

Start Date

various start dates

Entry Requirements & Interview Process

A minimum of GCSE Grade 4 / C or above in English and Maths is preferred. If you do not hold these qualifications, you will be supported to complete Functional Skills as part of your apprenticeship. For learners aged 19 and over, this requirement will be reviewed and agreed in consultation with your employer as part of the enrolment process.

Progression

On successful completion, apprentices can progress to:

• Early Years Educator Level 3 Apprenticeship

• Employment as a qualified Early Years Practitioner within nurseries, pre-schools, and other early years settings

• Further qualifications in childcare, education, or supporting teaching and learning

Career Opportunities:

Completing the Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship opens doors to a variety of administrative and business support roles, including:

• Early Years Practitioner

• Nursery Assistant

• Pre-school Assistant

• Childcare Assistant

• Foundation Stage Support Assistant Further progression may include completing the Early Years Educator Level 3 Apprenticeship, moving into senior practitioner or room leader roles, or specialising in areas such as special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), safeguarding, or family support. This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a rewarding career supporting young children’s learning, development, and wellbeing during their early years.

Assessment Methods

The apprenticeship is delivered through a combination of remote and workplace visits from your dedicated Training and Development Officer. You will receive ongoing support throughout the programme, with your employer actively involved in progress reviews to ensure you stay on track and achieve your full potential. All apprentices are required to complete an End-Point Assessment (EPA) to successfully achieve the qualification. The EPA is designed to assess the knowledge, skills, and behaviours you’ve developed throughout your apprenticeship. This is carried out by an independent assessment organisation to ensure fair and consistent standards. Calderdale College will support you in preparing for this final stage to help you succeed.