Early Years Educator Apprenticeship
Early Years Educator Apprenticeship
If you're passionate about helping young children thrive and want to build a career in early years education, the Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification at South Devon College is the recognised route to achieving that goal. This nationally respected course, accredited by CACHE, provides you with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience to gain the licence to practise and become a qualified Early Years Educator.
You will learn how to support children from birth to five years old, developing a deep understanding of child development, safeguarding, emotional wellbeing, and promoting healthy lifestyles. You’ll explore how to care for children who are unwell, how to foster inclusive and nurturing environments, and how to plan age-appropriate learning experiences that support early development.
This programme is delivered via weekly online lessons, giving you the flexibility to learn remotely while working in an early years setting. Your progress will be supported by regular workplace observations carried out by an experienced assessor, helping you apply theory to practice and demonstrate your competence in real-world settings.
Throughout the course, you will gain a well-rounded understanding of the early years framework and build the confidence to take on professional responsibilities in nurseries, pre-schools, reception classes, or home-based care.
Upon successful completion of Year 1, you can continue into Year 2 to complete the full qualification and unlock progression opportunities into employment or higher education, including foundation degrees at University Centre South Devon.
You will need to complete a DBS Check
Entry requirements are different for different age groups due to Government rules surrounding apprenticeships. Please note that some of our apprenticeship programmes have minimum entry requirements, particularly regarding English and maths, as set out by Skills England and funding rules.
Introduction to the role of the early years educator
Holistic child development
Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
Effective communication in an early years setting
Safeguarding and welfare requirements
Health, wellbeing and safety
Promoting an effective early years curriculum
Assessment of children’s learning and development
Understanding play for learning and holistic development
Partnership working












