Early years lead practitioner
Level 5 · HigherEducation and early years 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Early years lead practitioners are experienced professionals who take a leadership role within a nursery or pre-school team, mentoring colleagues, driving quality, and taking responsibility for specific areas of practice such as SEND, safeguarding, or curriculum. You will continue to work directly with children while also influencing the provision at a strategic level. It is the natural next step after Level 3 and provides a route towards management and EYTS.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Advanced knowledge of child development and high-quality early years pedagogy
Curriculum design and evaluation for the EYFS
Leading, coaching, and mentoring colleagues in practice
Assessment for learning and using data to improve outcomes for children
SEND co-ordination and working with external specialists
Safeguarding leadership and safer recruitment principles
Working strategically with parents, governing bodies, and Ofsted
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Mentor junior staff through observation, feedback, and professional dialogue
Lead a specific area of practice such as SEND, maths, or outdoor learning
Evaluate the quality of provision and drive continuous improvement
Plan the curriculum and ensure it is ambitious and inclusive for all children
Support colleagues in making accurate observations and assessments
Lead parent workshops and contribute to the setting's family engagement strategy
Prepare for and contribute to Ofsted inspections and self-evaluation
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 5 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 6 (Degree) apprenticeship or a senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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