Early Years Educator Level 3 Apprenticeship

NextStep Training is a supportive, forward‑thinking apprenticeship provider rooted in London. We take pride in celebrating the rich diversity of our community, and we actively promote equality, inclusion, and respect throughout everything we do.Our approach is rooted in delivering high‑quality training and placements where every apprentice feels guided, valued, confident, and empowered to thrive. We believe that starting a career is a transformative stage of life, and we are committed to helping individuals build skills, ambition, and a strong foundation for long‑term professional success.Apprentices who progress through NextStep Training are well‑prepared for their future roles and beyond. We maintain close partnerships with trusted local employers — across early years, care, hospitality and more — and deliver excellent training aligned with industry standards and apprenticeship frameworks. This ensures that every apprentice develops the practical skills, knowledge and personal confidence they need to step into their career and make a real difference.At NextStep Training, we are more than a training provider; we are a growing community where every learner is invested in, every employer is a valued partner, and every day is an opportunity to develop, excel, and build a bright future.

Monday - Friday, 9.00am - 5.00pm. 35 hours a week1 year 4 monthsCommunication skills, Attention to detail, Organisation skills, Problem solving skills, Team working, Creative, Initiative, Non judgemental, Patience

Requirements

Desirable qualifications

GCSE in:

• English (grade 4)
• Maths (grade 4)

Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.

Skills

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

After this apprenticeship

Your earnings can increase over time with an apprenticeship. Find out about potential future pay (opens in new tab).

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.