9 Benefits of Pursuing an Early Years Apprenticeship

If you're passionate about working with children and want a fulfilling, hands-on career, pursuing an early years apprenticeship is the perfect pathway.

Not only do you gain valuable skills, but you’ll also get the opportunity to work in a real early years environment – all while earning a salary and avoiding student debt!

More and more employers are turning to apprenticeships; in fact, in 2024, 11 per cent of school-based providers employed early years apprentices.

So, if you’re considering a career in childcare, here are some key benefits of embarking on an early years apprenticeship.

1. Hands-on experience in an early years setting

One of the greatest benefits of an early years apprenticeship is the hands-on experience you'll gain. Instead of just learning from textbooks or lectures, you'll be working directly with children in a real-world setting.

This experience helps you develop essential skills like understanding children’s needs, managing their development, and building positive relationships with them. You’ll also be supported by experienced childcare professionals who will guide you as you learn, giving you a practical edge over traditional academic routes.

This means by the time you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you’ll have acheived a combination of knowledge, skills and behaviours to show potential employers that you have the know-how and experience needed!

2. Apprentices earn a salary

Early years apprenticeships offer a unique financial advantage: apprentices earn a salary while they work towards their qualification. Unlike other routes such as university, where you have to pay to learn, with apprenticeships, you get paid to learn!

Apprenticeships allow you to support yourself financially while building your expertise and progressing in your education at the same time.

3. Improve your employability straight after your achieve your EPA

By the time you complete your early years apprenticeship, you’ll have both the qualifications and hands-on experience that employers highly value.

Many early years apprentices secure jobs straight after they finish, thanks to the skills they develop on the job. Employers appreciate the blend of practical experience and formal education that apprentices bring.

85% of apprentices go on to secure employment - many with the employer they worked with during their apprenticeship - making it an easy route into full-time employment in your dream industry!

Read more: Your Apprenticeship Questions Asked and Answered

4. Progression opportunities

An early years apprenticeship isn’t just the beginning; it’s a stepping stone to further opportunities in the industry. Many apprentices go on to pursue higher-level qualifications, such as diplomas or degrees in early childhood education.

If you wish, you can also advance into leadership roles within nurseries or schools, or even specialise in areas such as special educational needs support or child psychology. The possibilities are broad, allowing you to shape your career according to your interests and aspirations.

5. Structured training alongside on-the-job learning

During your early years apprenticeship, you’ll receive coaching from an industry expert that equips you with the theoretical knowledge needed for early years work, but you’ll also be applying that knowledge in real-time as you work with children.

This combination makes for a well-rounded learning experience and ensures you’re fully prepared for the challenges and rewards of an early years career. You’ll also have mentorship from your employer and a learning coach from your training provider - a whole team of people supporting you through your early years journey!

6. Nationally recognised qualification

An early years apprenticeship is recognised by the Department for Education for counting in the early years foundation stage statutory framework staff:child ratios.

Starting in September 2025, early years apprenticeships will be eligible for UCAS Tariff points.

7. Development of soft skills

Communication, teamwork, patience, and problem-solving are all skills you’ll naturally build as you interact with children, colleagues, and parents.

These soft skills are not only essential in early years but are also transferable to other professions, making you a well-rounded employee wherever your career takes you.

When you’ve completed your apprenticeship, your qualification shows employers that you’ve had training in developing soft skills; a necessary requirement in every job. An apprenticeship really is the perfect way for young people to enter the workforce!

8. Networking and professional connections

During your early years apprenticeship, you’ll have the chance to build valuable professional relationships with mentors, colleagues, and other professionals in the early years sector.

These connections can be incredibly beneficial as you advance in your career. Whether it's through recommendations, job opportunities, or ongoing support from people in the field, networking can open doors to future growth and career progression.

9. Learning coach support with Total People during your apprenticeship in early years

During your apprenticeship, you won’t be on your own. Total People provide dedicated learning coaches throughout your learning journey. Our experienced learning coaches are there to guide you, offering advice, helping you tackle challenges, and ensuring you’re on track to succeed.

This kind of support can make all the difference in your professional and personal development, ensuring you feel confident and empowered as you move forward in your career.

 

How to get an apprenticeship in early years

To get an apprenticeship in early years, start by contacting an apprenticeship provider that works closely with early years employers.

These providers will match you with opportunities based on your CV, qualifications, apprenticeship interview and location, helping you find the best fit for your skills and career goals.

Choosing a provider like Total People ensures you not only get a great placement but also receive top-quality mentorship, support, and guidance throughout your apprenticeship, making the process smoother and setting you up for success.

Explore our vacancies and contact us today to begin your early years apprenticeship journey.