DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP BOOSTS EARLY YEARS CAREER PATHWAY

The early years sector is the foundation of education, supporting children’s emotional, social, and intellectual development from birth to five years old. Experts are looking towards this industry for possible solutions as teachers across the UK report that over a third of children starting school are behind in key developmental skills.

Important behaviours such as play, sharing, and following instructions are underdeveloped in many children, so the need for qualified professionals in early years settings is increasing. Against this backdrop, the launch of the Level 6 Early Years Teacher Degree Apprenticeship earlier this year comes at the right time!

The early years teacher degree apprenticeship works much like other apprenticeships: a combination of work and learning. It will allow candidates to work, earn, and gather invaluable hands-on experience while studying towards a BA (Hons) or BSc (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies. Most importantly, it equips them with Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS), making them eligible to lead practice in private, voluntary, and independent settings.

More early years professionals are needed.

The Liverpool City Region has nearly 7,000 early years establishments, including nurseries and childcare centres. With approximately 82,000 children under five in the area, the demand for skilled early years professionals continues to grow. Big steps have already been taken to bolster the availability of childcare places. Now, the focus is on boosting the early years workforce and developing skills. As a region, we need a steady flow of qualified individuals to meet demand, yet we are short of applicants for the job opportunities available.

The new degree apprenticeship will encourage more school leavers and ambitious career-seekers to enter the early years industry. It offers an accessible way to gain the expertise and higher-level skills needed to make a lasting impact on the next generation. The programme will also allow nurseries and other childcare establishments to upskill their existing staff to become qualified early years teachers.

The early years teacher degree apprenticeship explained

The Level 6 Early Years Teacher Degree Apprenticeship will typically take 3 years to complete and will result in a BA(Hons) or BSc(Hons) in Early Childhood Studies, and Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS).

The apprenticeship focuses on developing the skills, knowledge, and behaviours required to plan effective learning experiences, ensure the wellbeing of children, and collaborate with families and external professionals. The apprenticeship standard was developed and approved for delivery early this year. Anyone doing an apprenticeship must undergo an end-point assessment by an EPAO (end-point assessment organisation). An EPAO has not yet been appointed for this degree apprenticeship; however, this final step should be completed soon, followed by the rollout of the course.

As with all apprenticeships, this degree apprenticeship allows individuals to earn while they study and get qualified. It’s particularly beneficial for those who wish to gain professional experience without incurring the financial burden of a full-time university course. The course is currently valued at £27,000, but as an apprenticeship, the cost is met through the employer-paid apprenticeship levy or government funding.

Early years career pathways

The early years teacher degree apprenticeship means anyone considering a career in the industry can plan out an ambitious and sound skills development pathway based on the following apprenticeships:

Level 2 early years practitioner apprenticeship

A great starting point for an early years career, focusing on hands-on childcare and foundational skills in early years settings.

Level 3 early years educator apprenticeship

The next step up the career ladder is to assume more responsibility and build advanced knowledge while leading play-based learning activities and supporting children’s education.

Early years teacher degree apprenticeship

With a solid foundation of practical experience and skills development gained through the level 2 and 3 apprenticeships, individuals can then aim to progress to the degree-level apprenticeship, which offers EYTS and leadership potential.

This pathway ensures learners build a comprehensive understanding of the sector at every level, supported by plenty of experience.

If you’re passionate about shaping young lives, are aiming for a high-level career and prefer the apprenticeship route, the availability of this early years teacher degree-level apprenticeship will be welcome news. If you already have a level 3 qualification in early years, it provides an inspiring next step to aim for in your career.

Find out more about early years careers in the Liverpool City Region