Our Early Years Educator apprenticeship is ideal for school leavers wanting to start a rewarding career in early childhood education, as well as existing staff seeking to gain a nationally recognised qualification to progress in the sector.
Working in public or private nursery settings, Early Years Educators play a vital role in helping children develop key skills, confidence, and independence during their formative years.
As an Early Years Educator Apprentice, you will:
- Plan and lead both child-initiated and adult-led learning activities
- Support early development in communication, language, and numeracy
- Promote inclusive learning environments that foster confidence and creativity
- Supervise and guide children during daily routines and structured play
- Observe and assess development to help shape individual learning plans
- Collaborate with colleagues, families, and carers to ensure the best outcomes for each child
This Level 3 qualification is a key step for those aspiring to lead practice in early years settings and build a long-term career in education.
Added Value – Endorsed Courses: Purposeful Play and Additional Needs & Behaviours
Alongside the apprenticeship, learners will achieve two endorsed Level 3 certificates:
• Purposeful Play (Level 3) – This qualification helps practitioners design engaging, play‑based learning experiences that spark curiosity and support children’s development.
• Additional Needs and Behaviour (Level 3) – This course strengthens staff confidence in supporting children with diverse needs and encourages positive behaviour strategies within the setting.
Both certificates are delivered online through Microsoft Teams and provide practitioners with valuable specialist skills that will directly benefit the children, families, and overall nursery environment.
What are the benefits?
- Builds confidence in everyday practice
- Helps staff support children with additional needs
- Enhances play‑based learning and activity planning
- Supports career development and progression
AI SMART
Heart of England Training is moving into the future with artificial intelligence, which means you are too.
Every apprentice, whatever their role or programme, benefits from our AI Smart approach, which is part of our HOET Knowledge Boost.
Built to develop practical AI confidence and real-world application, AI Smart equips learners with the knowledge and skills to use AI tools effectively, responsibly, and with purpose.
As learners progress, apprentices go beyond basic understanding by learning how to apply AI thoughtfully to solve genuine workplace challenges, support innovation, and add tangible value to their employer.
Why choose us?
Our expert team includes educators with former experience in an early years setting who understand what it takes to support young children’s learning and development. With over 50 years of apprenticeship training experience, we’re here to guide you from first steps to qualified success.
- Delivered by Experts – All our education trainers have years of real-world experience working in early years education. You’ll learn from true experts who understand what it takes to thrive in the school environment.
- 50+ Years of Apprenticeship Excellence – We’ve been supporting learners and employers since 1971, giving us a deep understanding of how to guide you from learner to fully qualified professional.
- Rated Highly by Apprentices and Employers – We’re proud of our glowing reviews on the official government apprenticeship site, showing consistent satisfaction from past learners.
- Backed by Ofsted Praise – “Senior leaders provide strong and inclusive leadership… They are highly visible and committed to providing good-quality education and training” – Ofsted Report.
- Support Every Step of the Way – From application to employment, our friendly team is here to help you build your skills, confidence, and career.
Testimonies
“Completing the Early Years Educator apprenticeship has given me the confidence to support children’s development at such a crucial stage. It’s so rewarding knowing I’m helping shape their early learning experiences.” Former Early Years Apprentice
“I’ve learned so much about child development, safeguarding, and how to create engaging activities. I now feel confident planning and delivering learning that really supports children’s progress.” Shelly, Early Years Educator Apprentice
“Heart of England Training has been amazing throughout my apprenticeship. The support from my educator and the practical learning really helped me grow in confidence and develop the skills I use every day in my role.” Former Level 3 Apprentice
