Early Years Initial Teacher Training - Ladybirds Nursery Apprentice

Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT) is a 12-month training programme fully funded by the Department for Education (DfE), designed for graduates of any subject.

Completion of the programme leads to achievement of the Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) making trainees fully qualified early years teachers.

What you'll do

As an EYITT Trainee, you will:

• Support children's learning, development, and wellbeing
• Plan and deliver engaging activities that promote children's progress
• Observe, assess, and monitor children's development
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues
• Promote inclusive practice and support children with diverse needs
• Ensure safeguarding, health, and safety requirements are followed at all times
• Reflect on and develop your professional practice throughout the programme
• Work closely with experienced practitioners and mentors to develop teaching skills

Training

How the EYITT Programme is Delivered. The programme is delivered over 12 months through a combination of:

• Practical experience within an Early Years setting
• Regular support from an experienced tutor and mentor
• Online learning and professional development activities
• Workplace observations and assessments
• Development of teaching practice aligned with the Early Years Teachers' Standards
• Trainees will receive ongoing guidance and support throughout their learning journey to ensure they are equipped to achieve Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS)

After the apprenticeship

Why Apply?

• No course tuition fees
• Excellent pathway into Early Years teaching
• Hands-on experience across nursery and school environments
• Opportunity to build a rewarding career shaping young children's futures

Skills

• Communication skills
• Team working
• Creative
• Initiative
• Patience

Qualifications

• Essential: GCSE, English Language (grade Grade 4)
• Essential: GCSE, Maths (grade 4)
• Essential: GCSE, Science (grade 4)
• Essential: Degree, Other (Bachelors Degree) Any Subject (grade 2:2 or above)

Things to consider

Certifications.

After you apply, you will receive a link to complete a screening form, alongside this, we will require copies of your bachelors degree and GCSE Maths, English and Science certificates to confirm your eligibility for the course.

Right to Work & Residency Requirements:

Applicants who are not UK nationals must meet apprenticeship funding eligibility rules, including having lived in the UK or EU for at least 3 consecutive years prior to the start date. You must hold a valid visa that does not expire within 18 months of your apprenticeship start date.

We will require a share code to verify your right to work and study in the UK. After submitting your application, you will receive a screening form where you can securely provide your share code for eligibility checks.

About the employer

We are a small, family-run group of children's nurseries in and around London, built on a strong family ethos and genuine partnership. We work closely with every family to create a nurturing and supportive environment, ensuring our children are confident, happy, and have every opportunity to thrive and unlock their full potential.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Early years lead practitioner (level 5), Education and early years
• Apprenticeship level: Higher (level 5)
• Training provider: BEST PRACTICE NETWORK LIMITED
• Expected duration: 1 Year 6 Months
• Hours: 40 hours a week. Working week: Monday - Friday. Between 8.00am - 6.00pm.
• Start date: 11 November 2026
• Positions available: 1
• Wage: £16,640 to £26,436.80 a year