Our Early Years Qualifications
At ASA Training, we provide a wide range of engaging, nationally recognised apprenticeship qualifications specifically designed for the Early Years sector. Our programmes recognise and build on existing skills while also developing the knowledge, confidence, and practical experience needed to progress in childcare and education. Learners are supported by experienced, sector-specialist assessors who offer personalised guidance, regular workplace visits, and constructive feedback throughout the apprenticeship. With a strong focus on quality training and learner support, we help individuals grow professionally and achieve long-term success in their Early Years careers.
An Early Years Level 2 apprenticeship gives learners hands-on experience working with young children while studying key areas like child development and safeguarding. Apprentices support staff in childcare settings, build practical skills, and gain confidence. It’s a great first step toward further qualifications or a career in early years.
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An Early Years Level 3 apprenticeship develops advanced skills for working with young children. Apprentices take on more responsibility in childcare settings, including planning activities and supporting children’s learning and development. The program builds strong professional knowledge in areas like safeguarding, communication, and leadership. It prepares learners to become qualified practitioners and progress into senior early years roles.
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An Early Years Level 5 apprenticeship is designed for experienced early years professionals who lead practice, support teams, and help shape high-quality learning environments. It develops advanced knowledge of child development, safeguarding, inclusion, and curriculum planning, while strengthening leadership, mentoring, and reflective practice skills. Apprentices apply theory directly to their setting, improving outcomes for children and supporting continuous improvement across early years provision.
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Early Years Career Pathway
Level 2 Early Years Practitioner
Typical Length: 12 Months
The Early Years Level 2 Practitioner qualification offers hands-on, practical learning in an early years setting while developing essential skills in child development and safeguarding.
Some Possible Roles:
> Nursery Assistant
> Early Years Practitioner
> Assistant Childminder
> Creche Assistant
> Care Worker
Average wage range: £16,000 – £22,000
Level 3 Early Years Educator
Typical Length: 18 Months
The Early Years Level 3 Educator qualification develops the skills to plan and deliver high-quality childcare, with training in child development, safeguarding, health and safety, and educational activities, while earning as you learn
Some Possible Roles:
> Nursery Room Leader
> Nursery Practitioner
> Early Years Educator
> Childminder
> Nanny
Average wage range: £23,000 – £29,000
Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner
Typical Length: 18 – 24 Months
The Early Years Level 5 Lead Practitioner qualification supports progression into leadership roles within early years settings. You will develop essential skills in pedagogy, team mentoring, and operational management tolead high-quality practice.
Some Possible Roles:
> Deputy/Assistant Manager
> Room Leader
> Lead Practitioner
> Pre-school Leader
> Early Years Coordinator
Average wage range: £26,000 – £40,000
Is an Early Years Apprenticeship the Right path for you ?
Choosing a career in Early Years education is an important decision, whether you are just starting out or looking to build on existing experience in childcare. Early Years apprenticeships provide a structured way to enter or progress within the sector, combining hands-on experience in a real working environment with formal training and nationally recognised qualifications.
Rather than selecting a specific course independently, most learners are guided towards the most appropriate apprenticeship level based on their experience, current qualifications, and the requirements of their employer. This ensures that each individual is supported on a pathway that matches their ability and long-term career goals within Early Years education.
Early Years apprenticeships are designed for people who want to develop practical skills while working directly with children in nurseries, preschools, or other Early Years settings. They offer the opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining valuable experience in areas such as child development, safeguarding, learning activities, and supporting children’s wellbeing.
These programmes can suit a wide range of individuals. Some learners may be completely new to childcare and are looking for an entry point into the sector, while others may already be working in an Early Years setting and wish to progress into more senior or specialised roles. Apprenticeships also provide a clear progression route, allowing learners to build on their qualifications over time and move into higher-level responsibilities.
Because every learner’s journey is different, understanding how apprenticeships work, what they involve, and what career opportunities they can lead to is an important first step. From entry-level roles through to leadership positions, Early Years apprenticeships support long-term career development in a growing and essential sector.
The information below answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Early Years apprenticeships, helping you understand the requirements, structure, and opportunities available so you can decide whether this is the right career path for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Years Apprenticeships
Early Years apprenticeships offer the opportunity to earn while you learn, combining practical workplace experience with nationally recognised qualifications. If you’re considering a career working with young children, you may have questions about entry requirements, career progression, funding and the day-to-day realities of an apprenticeship. Our frequently asked questions section is designed to help you explore whether an Early Years apprenticeship is the right next step for your career.
Yes, many people begin an Early Years apprenticeship with no previous experience. Entry requirements depend on the employer and the level of apprenticeship, but the Level 2 programme in particular is designed for those new to the sector.
Yes. Our course requires you to be in a placement before it can begin. This means that you will need to be hired at a nursery before the course can officially begin
An Early Years Apprenticeship is suitable for all ages. There is no maximum age limit for an apprenticeship, and your career in Early Years can begin whenever you are ready to take that step into an apprenticeship.
An apprenticeship combines paid work in an Early Years setting with structured learning. You will gain hands-on experience while also completing training, assignments, and assessments that lead to a recognised qualification.
You can apply for an apprenticeship by applying for an apprenticeship vacancy with an employer, where you’ll be interviewed like a normal job. If successful, you’ll start your apprenticeship with a training provider.
Alternatively, you can send us an enquiry to register your interest. Our recruitment team will support and guide you in finding a suitable employer, as a job placement is required before the apprenticeship can begin.
At ASA Training, we enrol learners throughout the year, so you can start as soon as you are placed with an employer.
Funding is available for eligible learners, subject to standard eligibility checks.