Early Years Apprenticeships
Showcase Training deliver the Level 2 Early Years Practitioner, Level 3 Early Years Educator and Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeships.
Our Apprenticeships
Level 2 Early Years Practitioner
Course Overview: Work and interact directly with children on a day to day basis supporting the planning of and delivery of activities
Course Duration: 12 months + EPA
Course Value: £5000 (up to 100% government-funded)
Level 3 Early Years Educator
Course Overview: Highly trained professionals who play a key role in ensuring that young children learn and develop well and are kept healthy and safe
Course Duration: 18 months + EPA
Course Value: £7000 (up to 100% government-funded)
Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner
Course Overview: Working directly with children, skilfully leading day to day practice.
Course Duration: 24 months + EPA
Course Value: £9000 (up to 100% government-funded)
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a training programme that combines hands-on work experience with formal education, allowing you to learn a profession while earning a wage. Apprentices gain practical skills and knowledge, leading to an industry recognised qualification.
Training Costs
The government and the employer will cover all of the costs of apprenticeship training for apprentices. Additional course materials can be purchased yourself, but this is not necessary in order to achieve the full programme.
Off-the-Job Training
Off-the-Job training is a statutory requirement whereby time is set aside on a weekly basis for you to learn and develop new knowledge, skills, and behaviours linked to the programme. This includes completing all coursework set.
Tutor and Visits
All apprentices will be assigned a tutor from Showcase Training whose role is to guide you through the course. The tutor’s will conduct 1-1 visits every 4-6 weeks, set coursework to complete, observe practice, and conduct assessments.
Functional Skills
Functional Skills provide an equivalent alternative to the GCSE route, offering you a vocational pathway to develop your English and Maths skills. These assessments can be taken throughout the year, providing greater flexibility.
End Point Assessmemt
End-point assessment is an assessment that takes place at the end of the apprenticeship programme. As a learner it is a requirement that your employer endorses you as being ‘EPA ready’ before you are able to be assessed as competent in your occupation.
A Chat with an Early Years Apprentice
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions for Employers
What are the training costs?
Companies with an annual payroll exceeding £3 million pay an apprenticeship levy. These funds can be used to cover the cost of apprenticeship training, up to a pre-defined funding band for each programme. In some cases, you may still need to contribute a small percentage.
For companies under the £3 million payroll threshold, the government typically covers 95% of the training costs, again up to a funding band. You may need to contribute the remaining 5%. However, if you hire a 16-21 year old apprentice, the government cover 100% of the training costs.
What is the employer incentive?
There is a £1,000 payment available to employers for apprentices who, at the start of their apprenticeship, are: between 16 and 18 years old or between 19 and 24 years old and have an Education, Health and Care plan
How do I find an apprentice?
The “Find an Apprenticeship” service is a UK government website that assists individuals in discovering apprenticeship opportunities and enables employers to list their apprenticeship vacancies. This platform serves as a central hub for apprenticeships, offering a range of vacancies across various sectors and locations. Showcase Training can advertise and manage the recruitment process on your behalf.
We can also advertise on social media and on our website.
What are my responsibilities when employing an apprentice?
All apprentices:
- Are entitled to the minimum apprenticeship wage
- Are expected to hold or achieve Maths and English qualifications (delivered by Showcase Training)
- Are entitled to the same benefits as other employees
- Are covered under policies and procedures
- Are entitled to statutory sick leave and annual leave
- Require off the job training each week
Frequently Asked Questions for Learners
How do I apply for an apprenticeship?
If you’re interested in applying for an apprenticeship, you have a couple of options:
- Government’s Apprenticeship Website: You can search and apply for apprenticeships through the government’s “Find an Apprenticeship” website.
- Apply Directly Through Us: Alternatively, you can reach out to us directly for opportunities. You can contact us to learn more or explore current nursery vacancies listed on our apprenticeship vacancies page.
What is the National Apprenticeship Wage?
As of April 1, 2025, the National Minimum Wage for apprentices in the UK is £7.55 per hour. This rate applies to apprentices under 19, or those aged 19 or over who are in the first year of their apprenticeship. Apprentices aged 19 or over who have completed the first year of their apprenticeship are entitled to the National Minimum Wage for their age group.
Will I gain an industry-recognised qualification?
Yes, as an apprentice, you will gain an industry-recognised qualification. Apprenticeships are designed to provide practical experience alongside formal training, and at the end of your apprenticeship, you will achieve a certificate.
What can I do to support my apprenticeship application?
Check out our apprenticeship application guide where we’ll walk you through the essential steps to start your apprenticeship application journey. From identifying the right programme to polishing your application, we’ll cover actionable tips and resources that can give you the confidence to take the leap.
Early Years Apprenticeships Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are you considering a career in early years education but have questions about apprenticeships? As a trusted early years training provider, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Our Guides
Apprenticeship Application Guide
Our guide to applying for an Early Years Apprenticeship provides information on how to apply, how to write a CV, and top tips to help you succeed. It will support you through each step of the process, from preparing your application to standing out and feeling confident at interview.
Apprenticeships
While working as an apprentice you are entitled to the National Minimum Wage, £8 per hour.
Apprentices aged 19 and over, and not in their first year of their apprenticeship are entitled to the National Minimum Wage for their age group.
Supported by a Tutor for the duration of the apprenticeship
Gain job-specific and transferable skills
Gain an industry recognised qualification
