Thinking about starting a career in childcare or early years, but want to earn a wage while you train?

Early Years Apprenticeships offer a practical route into the sector for school leavers, career changers, and anyone who wants to build real experience from day one.

But what does an apprenticeship actually involve?

How is it different from a college course?

And where can you actually find these opportunities?

This guide will walk you through what Early Years Apprenticeships are, how they work, what to expect, and how to get started.

🧑‍🏫 What Is an Early Years Apprenticeship?

An Early Years Apprenticeship is a paid job where you work in a nursery or early years setting while studying for a recognised qualification.

It’s a way to earn money, gain hands-on experience, and achieve a nationally recognised childcare qualification—all at the same time.

Most apprenticeships are open to people of any age, but they are especially popular with school leavers, parents returning to work, or those seeking a career change.

📚 What Qualifications Can You Achieve Through an Apprenticeship?

The most common qualifications gained through an Early Years Apprenticeship are:

• Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship – For beginners, often completed in 12–18 months.
• Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship – For those seeking “qualified practitioner” status, usually completed in 18–24 months.

Some employers offer higher-level apprenticeships, such as Level 5 in Early Years Leadership, for those looking to progress further.

All apprenticeship qualifications are regulated and listed on the official frameworks , so you can be confident they’re accepted by Ofsted and employers.

💷 How Does the Apprenticeship Work Day-to-Day?

As an apprentice, you’ll be an employee of a nursery, preschool, or childcare provider.

You’ll typically work 30–40 hours a week, including paid time set aside for study and training.

Most apprentices spend around 80% of their time working in the setting and 20% on “off-the-job” training and learning activities.

Training is usually delivered by a local college or apprenticeship training provider, either online, in person, or a mix of both.

You’ll have a workplace mentor and a training assessor who supports you throughout the programme.

📝 What Will You Learn and Be Assessed On?

You’ll cover all the key areas needed to work confidently in early years:

• Child development and milestones
• Safeguarding and child protection
• Supporting play and learning
• Health, safety, and wellbeing
• Building relationships with children, parents, and colleagues
• Promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion

Your learning will be a mix of on-the-job experience, written assignments, observations, and sometimes professional discussions or reflective journals.

You’ll be assessed by your training provider and must pass an “End Point Assessment,” which could include a professional discussion, observation, and review of your work portfolio.

💡 What Are the Advantages of an Apprenticeship Route?

• Earn while you learn: Receive a wage as you build real skills and experience.
• No tuition fees: Apprenticeships are funded by the government and your employer.
• Immediate hands-on experience: Learn directly in the workplace from day one.
• Good progression routes: Many apprentices stay in permanent roles or progress to higher qualifications.
• Support throughout: You’ll have a workplace mentor and a training assessor to guide you.

🔁 How Does an Apprenticeship Compare to College or Distance Learning?

Both routes lead to recognised qualifications, but the experience is different.

• With an apprenticeship, you’re employed from day one and paid a wage.
• Study and training are built into your working week.
• College courses (explained in this article about in-person Early Years Diplomas ) or distance learning courses ( see our available Child Care courses ) can offer more flexibility and may be better for those who need to fit study around other commitments.
• Some people start with college or distance learning, then move onto an apprenticeship, or vice versa.

Whichever route you choose, it’s important to check that your qualification is Ofsted-recognised and listed on the official frameworks.

🌍 Where Can You Find Early Years Apprenticeships?

Ready to get started? Here’s where to look for live apprenticeship vacancies:

• GOV.UK Find an Apprenticeship Service – The official government search for all live apprenticeship vacancies across England.
• National Apprenticeship Service – Find local childcare apprenticeships by location and level.
• Local nursery groups’ own websites – Some major nursery providers advertise apprenticeship opportunities directly.
• Local colleges and training providers – Many will list their own apprenticeship vacancies and can help match you to an employer.

📞 Book a Free Early Years Roadmap Call

If you’d like tailored advice or help exploring child care/early years options, our team is here to help.

Book Your Roadmap Call