Early Years Educator Level 3 Apprenticeship

Being an apprentice at NextStep Training means earning while you learn, gaining hands-on experience and industry-recognised qualifications. You'll receive expert training, personalised support, and a clear pathway to career progression. Enjoy discounted travel, exclusive discounts at over 350 retailers and reduced council tax.

What you will do

As an apprentice, you'll work at a company and get hands-on experience. You'll gain new skills and work alongside experienced staff.

What you'll do at work:

• Assist in planning and delivering engaging, age-appropriate activities
• Promote learning through play in line with the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) framework
• Create a safe and stimulating environment
• Help maintain clean, safe, and welcoming learning spaces
• Follow safeguarding and health & safety procedures at all times
• Observe and monitor children's progress
• Record observations and contribute to assessments and development plans
• Share relevant information with senior staff and parents as needed
• Promote positive behaviour and social skills
• Encourage kindness, sharing, and respectful behaviour
• Use positive reinforcement and model appropriate conduct
• Assist with daily routines
• Support children during mealtimes, toileting, dressing, and nap times
• Help establish consistent routines for comfort and stability
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and parents
• Communicate effectively with team members, children, and families
• Participate in staff meetings and training sessions
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Handle sensitive information with discretion and follow data protection policies
• Follow nursery/setting policies and procedures
• Adhere to guidelines for safeguarding, equality, inclusion, and diversity
• Support in ensuring the setting meets regulatory and quality standards

Training

An apprenticeship includes regular training with a college or other training organisation. Off-the-job training will follow the time allocations outlined in the Occupational Standard.

• As an apprentice, you'll receive regular training alongside your job to help you develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed for your role
• Part of your working hours will be dedicated to off-the-job training, which includes study time, workshops, and learning activities
• You'll be working to complete the Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship standard, which will include any required Functional Skills in English and maths
• Training is delivered either online or in person at our training centre in Hackney, offering flexibility to suit your needs
• You'll be supported by experienced tutors and assessors throughout your apprenticeship, ensuring you stay on track and successfully complete your qualification
• Training will include a paediatric first aid qualification

After the apprenticeship

Completing a Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship opens the door to a wide range of opportunities in the Early Years sector. With this qualification, individuals become fully qualified practitioners, capable of working independently with children in nurseries, preschools, and reception classes.

As they gain experience, they may progress into more senior roles such as:

• Senior Practitioner or Room Leader - overseeing a team within a room, leading planning and observation, and supporting less experienced colleagues
• Deputy Nursery Manager - supporting the nursery manager in daily operations, compliance, safeguarding, and staff development
• Nursery Manager - leading the entire nursery setting, ensuring high standards of care and education, team performance, and regulatory compliance

To support continued growth, NextStep Training offers the following advanced qualifications within Early Years.

Level 4 Early Years Advanced Practitioner:

• Ideal for those who want to specialise in areas such as SEND, safeguarding, or early language development. This course enhances practice and supports progression into leadership

Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner:

• Designed for experienced practitioners ready to take on leadership roles within their settings. It focusses on leading day-to-day practice, mentoring staff, and contributing to strategy and curriculum development

Both qualifications can be delivered flexibly, either online or in-person, and include dedicated support from our experienced tutors and safeguarding officers.

Further progression can include:

• Moving into school-based roles such as Teaching Assistant or SEND Support
• Becoming a Trainer, Assessor, or Mentor for apprentices
• Pursuing a Foundation Degree or BA in Early Childhood Studies, leading towards Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) or Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Our structured training and support ensure that every apprentice has a clear and achievable pathway to long-term success in the Early Years sector.

Skills

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Problem solving skills
• Team working
• Creative
• Initiative
• Non judgemental
• Patience

Qualifications

• Desired: GCSE, English (grade 4)
• Desired: GCSE, Maths (grade 4)

About the employer

Tomberries Nursery is a private family run nursery, with a focus on providing the very best in child care and early education the industry has to offer. We believe in the importance of education through play and in engaging our children in learning through self-discovery.Our warm, cosy home from home environment only provides the very best natural learning resources encouraging self-choice and child initiated play.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Early years educator (level 3), Education and early years
• Apprenticeship level: Advanced (level 3)
• Training provider: NEXTSTEP TRAINING LIMITED
• Expected duration: 1 Year 6 Months
• Hours: 35 hours a week. Working week: Monday- Friday, 9.00am- 5.00pm.
• Start date: 29 November 2026
• Positions available: 3
• Wage: £14,560 a year