Early Years Apprenticeships
Entry Level apprenticeships
There are two main entry points for early years apprenticeships, designed for people with no previous experience. Both apprenticeships are suitable for those with no previous experience.
Level 2 Early Years Educator
Level 2 may be more suitable for those leaving school at 16. It allows you to work in an early years setting under supervision. It is an excellent entry point into the sector.
- Equivalent to GCSEs
- Ideal if you’re leaving school at 16 or want a solid entry point
- Work under supervision in a nursery or preschool
- Gain essential skills and knowledge to start your career in the sector
Find out more about Level 2 and 3 Early Years Apprenticeships here
Level 3 Early Years Educator
Level 3 may be more suitable for those who want to plan, organise and lead learning activities, and perhaps supervise others.
Equivalent to A Levels
- Great if you want to plan and lead learning activities
- Take on more responsibility and maybe supervise others
- Build a stronger foundation for a long-term career in early years
Find out more about Level 2 and 3 Early Years Apprenticeships here.
Advance your career
Train, work, and qualify as an Early Years Teacher with a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship – no prior experience needed.
Early Years Teacher Degree Apprenticeship (Level 6)
Ready to go further? The Early Years Teacher Degree Apprenticeship is a brand-new route starting in 2026 that lets you train, work, and qualify as an Early Years Teacher – with no prior experience needed.
You can apply if you have:
- any Level 3 qualification (equivalent to an A Level)
- GCSEs in English, maths, and science (grade C/4 or above)
- lived in England for the last 3 years or more
If you do not have a GCSE in English or Maths, you might qualify for a free course to improve your skills to gain them.
How this qualification helps your career:
Whether you’re just starting out your career or already working in early years, this qualification gives your career a boost to gain Early Years Teacher Status and unlocks new opportunities across the sector.
You’ll be qualified to work as an early years teacher in:
- Private, voluntary and independent nurseries
- Independent school infant classes
- Academy and free school nursery classes
It’s also a great fit for childminders, and can support you to assist in maintained nursery schools.
You’ll learn how to:
- plan lessons and develop policies
- lead teams and work with families and agencies
- contribute to running an early years setting
Find out more and apply:
Apprentices in action
Hear from people who started their early years careers through apprenticeships – and never looked back. From gaining confidence in the workplace to discovering a passion for supporting children’s learning, these stories show where an apprenticeship can take you.