Early years practitioner
Level 2 · IntermediateEducation and early years 1 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Early years practitioners work under supervision in nurseries, childminders, and other settings, supporting the care and learning of babies and young children up to five years old. This Level 2 apprenticeship gives you practical skills in childcare routines, play, and basic EYFS knowledge as a starting point in an early years career. It typically leads on to the Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship.
On the job
What you’ll learn
The EYFS framework: the seven areas of learning and the safeguarding requirements
Basic child development from birth to five years old
Safe and hygienic care routines: feeding, nappy changing, and sleep
How to support children's play, communication, and language development
Safeguarding basics and how to report a concern
Working positively with parents and carers
Health and safety in early years environments
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Assist with setting up and tidying away play activities and resources
Carry out care routines such as nappy changes and mealtimes under supervision
Join in with children's play and encourage language and communication
Support children during outdoor play, keeping them safe at all times
Observe and share information about children's progress with your key person
Welcome families at the start and end of the session
Follow all hygiene, health, and safety routines in the setting
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 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
No employer videos yet for this apprenticeship. Employers offering it can add one to show young people what the role is really like.