In a ground-breaking development set to reshape the landscape of Early Years Education, we are thrilled to announce a significant update to our Early Years Educator Level 3 apprenticeship programme, effective April 2024. This transformative update reflects our commitment to providing a more streamlined and effective learning experience for aspiring educators.

The main changes and benefits to the programme include:

No Diploma – Focused Individual Development

The elimination of the diploma requirement represents a key shift, allowing us to channel more focus into developing each apprentice as an individual. This departure from multiple criteria ensures a more personalised learning journey, allowing apprentices to delve deeper into the essential aspects of Early Years Education.

Clear Links Between Knowledge and Skills Building

Our updated programme establishes clear links between theoretical knowledge and practical skills building.

EPA Methods and Merit Grade Opportunity

A notable enhancement in the apprenticeship is the adoption of End-Point Assessment (EPA) methods, replacing the conventional Multiple-Choice Question (MCQ) test with observation. This shift allows learners to authentically demonstrate their abilities in their roles, providing a more comprehensive assessment of their practical skills. Additionally, this presents an opportunity for apprentices to achieve a merit grade, recognising and rewarding excellence in their performance.

Clear, Well-Sequenced, Up-to-Date Programme

The revamped programme is characterised by its clear, well-sequenced structure, ensuring that learners progress through the material in a logical and organised manner. Staying true to our commitment to excellence, the programme remains up-to-date with the latest developments in Early Years Education, ensuring that apprentices receive the most relevant and current information.

Webinar Sessions for Collaborative Learning

Embracing the power of technology, our programme incorporates interactive webinar sessions. These sessions provide a platform for learners to share practices and exchange ideas with peers in different settings, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Plenty of Opportunities for Revisiting and Stretch & Challenge

A distinguishing feature of the updated programme is the abundance of opportunities for apprentices to revisit and build on their knowledge. This, coupled with added elements of stretch and challenge, ensures that learners are consistently engaged and encouraged to surpass their own expectations, promoting continuous growth and development.

Upon successful completion of the programme, apprentices will be awarded a Full and Relevant Level 3 qualification following passing the End-Point Assessment. This marks a significant achievement and solidifies the apprentice's readiness to embark on a rewarding career in Early Years Education.

Tracy Clement, Apprenticeships Director at Best Practice Network, was an integral part of the trailblazer group tasked with updating this programme standard to meet the needs of settings and Early Years apprentices.

"We are extremely excited about the new standard and that we could be a part of shaping the programme. We have complete confidence that with our new curriculum and the support of our expert Apprenticeship Tutors, we are in the best position to provide an apprenticeship programme that not only meets industry standards but exceeds them." "

We are now accepting applications for our April 2024 cohort of this brand-new standard. We invite aspiring educators to join us on this exciting journey of growth and learning. Together, let us shape the future of Early Years Education and nurture a generation of educators who are well-equipped to make a lasting impact on the lives of young learners.

To learn more about our new and improved programme and apply, please click the button below. 

Learn More & Apply