Early Years Initial Teacher Training Dulwich Montessori 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 Apprentice, 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
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Problem solving skills
• Number skills
• Team working
• Creative
• Initiative
• Non judgemental
• Patience

Qualifications

• Essential: GCSE, English (grade 4)
• Essential: GCSE, Maths (grade 4)
• Essential: GCSE, Science (grade 4)
• Essential: Bachelors Degree, Any Subject (grade 2:1)

Things to consider

Certifications:

After you apply, you will receive a link to complete a screening form. Above this, we will require copies of your Bachelor's 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.

Benefits

• Fully funded Department for Education training
• Professional mentoring and development support
• Complete 30 days placement in a primary school
• Gain recognised Early Years Teacher Status

About the employer

Dulwich Oaks is part of an established group of three Montessori nurseries, providing high-quality early education and childcare for families across London and Surrey. Being part of a wider nursery group allows us to share experience, knowledge and best practice while maintaining the warm, personal atmosphere of an individual nursery.

Montessori principles are at the heart of our daily practice. Through carefully prepared environments and purposeful activities, children are encouraged to make choices, develop practical skills and become confident, independent and curious learners.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Teacher - Postgraduate (level 6), Education and early years
• Apprenticeship level: Degree (level 6)
• Training provider: BEST PRACTICE NETWORK LIMITED
• Expected duration: 1 Year 3 Months
• Hours: 16 hours a week. Working week: Monday to Friday.

16.5 hours per week with additional overtime hours available.

EYITT course will be starting in September if successful by 28th August otherwise it will be a November start.

• Start date: 1 November 2026
• Positions available: 1
• Wage: £6,656 to £10,574.72 a year
• Other locations: London, SE21 7HW; South Croydon, CR2 0NY