Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Standard
Duration: 12 months (plus 3 months in gateway)
Start date: ongoing
Trusted by leading employers
Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship
Developing the next generation of early years practitioners
Designed for early years settings and aspiring childcare professionals, this apprenticeship helps learners develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to support children from birth to five years old. Through a blend of workplace learning and expert coaching, apprentices gain the experience and confidence to thrive in an early years career.
Every apprentice is supported by a dedicated Learning Coach who maintains regular contact at least every four weeks through progress reviews, coaching and support sessions. This helps keep learning on track, provides tailored support and gives employers clear visibility of progress and achievement.
Topics, units and assessments
Supporting career development and business success
As part of this apprenticeship, learners will develop knowledge and skills in:
1
Communication
Communicate effectively with children, colleagues and other relevant individuals.
2
Activities and Play
Support the planning and delivery of activities, purposeful play opportunities and educational programmes.
3
Wellbeing and Development
Support children’s wellbeing, learning and development.
4
SEND Support
Support children with special educational needs and disabilities.
5
Health and Safety
Support a safe and healthy environment for children.
6
Safeguarding
Ensure compliance with child protection and safeguarding.
Customised training available
Flexible delivery to suit your business or schedule
Career progression
Career progression that drives personal growth and business success
Nanny and Early Years Worker
A nanny provides care, learning and developmental support for children, typically within the family home, working closely with parents to meet individual needs.
An early years worker supports young children's learning, development and well-being through play, activities and daily care within an early years setting.
Nursery Assistant
A nursery assistant supports the care, learning and development of young children within a nursery setting. They assist with activities, play opportunities and daily routines, helping to create a safe, nurturing environment that promotes children's well-being and development.
Nursery Nurse
A nursery nurse provides care, learning and developmental support for young children, taking a more active role in planning activities, observing progress and supporting children's individual learning and development needs within an early years setting.
Nursery Practitioner
A nursery practitioner supports and promotes children's learning, development and well-being through planned activities, play and daily interactions. They work closely with children, families and colleagues to help create a positive environment that supports children's individual needs and development.
Develop your talent
Progress to the Level 3 Early Years Educator Standard and build the advanced skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to support career growth and organisational success.
Our learning coaches have been amazing. It's been a really nice balance of support all round.
Lucy, Vale Street Nursery Manager.
How training works
Designed to minimise disruption while supporting real-world learning
Off the job training is a critical and important element; it must deliver new skills and knowledge that are directly relevant to the apprenticeship standard and can include:
Teaching of theory via blended delivery methods
Practical training
Work shadowing
Supported learning and time spent writing any assignments/questions.
Apprenticeship solutions for employers
Invest in your workforce
Whether you're recruiting new staff, developing existing employees or exploring apprenticeship opportunities for your organisation, discover our Early Years and Education apprenticeship programmes.
Starting an apprenticeship?
Take the next step in your career
If you're interested in starting an apprenticeship, complete the form and a member of our team will help you explore the opportunities available.
Register your interest
Get qualified and launch your career with a rewarding apprenticeship. Get in touch with our friendly team.