How to Become an Early Years Tutor
Hannah Willisson-Hill, Tutor at Showcase Training
First things first: gain an Early Years qualification
If you’re thinking about becoming an Early Years tutor, the first step is to obtain a relevant Early Years qualification. Depending on your experience, this might be a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner or a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification. When researching courses, make sure they are accredited and appear on the Government’s list of Full and Relevant qualifications to ensure they meet industry standards.
Entry Requirements
Most courses have entry requirements, typically including GCSEs in Maths and English. If you haven’t achieved these yet, don’t worry – you can often complete them alongside your childcare qualification, especially if you’re undertaking an Apprenticeship. Apprenticeships usually take between 8 and 18 months and provide essential hands-on experience. You’ll need to find employment in an Early Years setting to complete your apprenticeship, where you can apply your learning in a practical environment.
I’ve got my Early Years qualification. Now what?
Once you’ve completed your qualification, you may want to continue developing your skills and knowledge. You have many options. For example, the Level 4 Advanced Practitioner or Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner qualifications can be studied while working. Some choose to pursue a degree in Early Years. This could be through a university, further education college, or the Open University.
Required Qualifications
To become a tutor, you will need to obtain a Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA). Some employers offer this training on the job, but you can also complete it independently before applying for tutoring roles. Additionally, qualifications like the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (formerly PTLLS) can be valuable to understand teaching methods and delivery.
Preparing for the transition into tutoring
For many, moving from a hands-on childcare role to adult education as a tutor (previously called an assessor) is a natural progression. At Showcase, we welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, even if you don’t have prior assessing or tutoring experience. What matters most is your Early Years experience.
Before making the leap, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with modern apprenticeship delivery models and assessment techniques, including the use of e-Portfolio systems. Read qualification specifications from awarding bodies. For example, those for Early Years Practitioner Level 2 or Early Years Educator Level 3 explain course structures and learner expectations.
Staying informed and continuing your professional development
It’s important to keep up to date with changes in both the childcare sector and adult education, including teaching Maths and English Functional Skills. Tutors are expected to maintain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) logs to stay current with industry standards and best practice. Without working directly in a setting, this can be challenging but staying informed through news sources like FE Week or relevant blogs can help.
Next steps
Finally, update your CV with your new qualifications and experience. Research potential employers and the specific requirements of tutor roles so you can go into interviews confidently. This is your chance to showcase your knowledge and passion for Early Years education and adult learning.
If you have any questions or want advice on your journey to becoming an Early Years tutor, don’t hesitate to get in touch – we’re here to help!