Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship
This apprenticeship is designed to support those new to the early years sector, or those with limited experience, by combining practical, on-the-job training with structured learning and assessment. It offers a pathway to gaining a nationally recognised qualification while earning a wage and gaining valuable experience in a real-world childcare environment.
Occupation Summary
Work and interact directly with children on a day-to-day basis, supporting the planning of and delivery of activities.
This occupation is found in a range of private and public settings including; full day care, children’s centres, pre-schools, reception classes, playgroups, nursery schools, home based provision, hospitals, social care settings, out of school environments and local authority provision to deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements set by government for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Typical Duration to gateway: 12 Months
Typical EPA period: 3 Months
Suitable for:
– People who enjoy working with children and supporting their learning, development and wellbeing.
– Those who aim for a long-term career in early years education or childcare leadership.
Skills and Qualities:
– Strong communication skills.
– Patience and Empathy
– Commitment to safeguarding and child development.
Eligibility Criteria
To access Government Funding for this apprenticeship, applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria.
– Before an apprenticeship place can be confirmed, it must be agreed between the Training Provider and the Employer that the apprenticeship is the most appropriate and beneficial training route for the applicant.
– As part of this process, the applicant will be required to complete an Initial Assessment, which will evaluate their existing knowledge, experience, and prior learning. This assessment helps ensure that the apprenticeship is a suitable match and that the correct level of support can be provided.
– The Initial Assessment must be completed as soon as possible to avoid delays in the enrolment process.
Apprenticeship Components
~ Apprenticeship Standard – Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSB’s).
~ Level 1/2 Functional Skills in English
~ Level 1/2 Functional Skills in Maths
~ 20% Off the Job Training – 6+ hrs per week
~ End Point Assessment (EPA)
KSB’s
Knowledge, Skills and Behaviour
Duties and Relevent KSB’s
Work in partnership with other colleagues, parents or carers or other professionals to meet the individual needs of each child in line with the provision’s policies and procedures and statutory guidance.
KSB’s
K19 K21 K23 K24 K28 K29
S13 S21 S22 S23 S24 S25
B2 B3 B4 B5 B6 B8
Use play to support children to understand and encourage healthy life choices.
KSB’s
K14
S7
B3 B4 B5 B6
Identify issues of safeguarding and child protection, ensuring that the welfare and safety of children is promoted and safeguarded and to report any child protection concerns to the person in charge.
KSB’s
K5 K6 K7 K26
S2
B2 B3 B4 B5
Carry out self-reflection and use continuous professional development opportunities to improve practice.
KSB’s
K27
S21
B3 B7
Undertake specific tasks related to the health, safety and hygiene of the children and the cleanliness of the provision.
KSB’s
K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K22 K32
S3 S4 S5 S6 S8
B3 B4
Use their knowledge of child development theories to work with parents and carers to improve children’s outcomes and wellbeing, including those with disabilities and additional needs.
KSB’s
K1 K2 K3 K4 K13
S1
B3 B4 B5 B6
Contribute to the observation, planning and organise activities and children’s individual experiences which support and extend their learning in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage.
KSB’s
K16 K17 K18 K22 K25 K29
S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20
B1 B3 B4 B5 B6
Role model effective communication to promote and support children’s overall learning and development.
KSB’s
K15 K25
S9 S10 S11 S12
B1 B3 B4 B5 B6 B8
Support the collection of accurate and up-to-date records which identify children’s individual needs, abilities and progress and use these as a basis for future planning.
KSB’s
K18
S15 S19
B1 B4 B5
Support the development of an inclusive environment that promotes the well-being of all children.
KSB’s
K5 K14 K20 K22 K30 K31
S7
B1 B3 B4 B5 B6 B8
End Point Assessment (EPA)
The EPA consists of 2 assessment methods.
-> Assessment method 1 – observation with questioning:
Fail
Pass
Distinction
-> Assessment method 2 – professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Fail
Pass
Distinction
-> The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
Fail
Pass
Merit
Distinction
Off-The-Job Training
Whilst on programme, an Apprentice must spend a minimum of 20% of their working day conducting ‘off-the-job training’ towards their qualification. This equates to a minimum of 6 hours per week.
This could include: Lectures, role-playing, simulation exercises, online learning, manufacturer training, industry visits and attendance at shows/conferences/competitions.
This could also include time spent writing assignments/assessments.
This does not include: English, Maths, progress reviews, on-programme assessment, or training which takes place outside the apprentice’s paid working hours.
Functional Skills Maths & English Level 2
For new starts since 11th February 2025:
~ Aged 16-18 at start: No changes – the existing rules remain in place. Maths & English Level 2 remains mandatory.
~ Aged 19+ at start: As part of the initial assessment, providers must discuss and agree with the apprentice and employer whether English and Maths will be included in the apprenticeship. This decision must be documented in the training plan.
~ If English and/or Maths are included, apprentices must attempt the exams, but achievement is not required before taking the End Point Assessment (EPA).
Funding is available for eligible learners, subject to standard eligibility checks.