Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship
The Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship is designed for experienced professionals who are ready to take the next step into leadership and management within early years education. This programme develops advanced skills in pedagogy, leadership, and child development — preparing practitioners to lead quality improvement, mentor others, and ensure the best possible outcomes for children.
Delivered nationally by Skern Training & Skills, the programme combines expert-led teaching, on-the-job learning, and practical leadership experience, helping you to confidently lead practice and inspire others within your setting.
During this apprenticeship learners will:
- Lead and support day-to-day practice within an early years setting.
- Promote children’s health, wellbeing, and emotional development.
- Plan and lead purposeful play and learning opportunities.
- Model and share best practice in pedagogy and inclusive education.
- Mentor and support colleagues to develop professional skills.
- Lead safeguarding, equality, and diversity initiatives.
- Manage resources and oversee the quality of provision in your area of responsibility.
Core Knowledge Areas
Leadership theory and organisational practice
Child development and learning research
- Contemporary child development theories and research
- How learning develops across the early years
- The impact of environment and relationships on development
Pedagogical frameworks and curriculum intent
- Theoretical models of early years pedagogy
- Curriculum intent, implementation, and impact
- Evaluating educational approaches and outcomes
Safeguarding, welfare, and regulatory context
- Safeguarding and child protection legislation
- Health, safety, and wellbeing requirements
- Legal responsibilities and accountability
Inclusion, SEND, and partnership contexts
- Equality, diversity, and inclusion frameworks
- Understanding SEND legislation and guidance
- Partnership working within multi-agency systems
Key Skills
Leadership and management
- Lead day-to-day practice, deploying staff and resources effectively.
- Provide constructive feedback, mentoring, and professional development support to colleagues.
Pedagogical excellence
- Use theory and evidence to plan, observe, and evaluate learning.
- Model best practice and guide others to deliver engaging, inclusive learning opportunities.
Safeguarding and wellbeing
- Ensure safeguarding procedures are implemented and embedded across the setting.
- Promote physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing through positive environments.
Collaboration and reflection
- Build strong, inclusive relationships with parents, carers, and multi-agency professionals.
- Reflect on and evaluate practice, using evidence to drive improvement for children and staff.
Programme Details
Duration
This apprenticeship will typically take 24 months.
Entry Requirements
- Must be working directly with children and leading, or aspiring to lead, day-to-day practice.
- Must hold a Level 3 Childcare/Early Years qualification (or equivalent).
- GCSE Grade 2 in English and Maths (or equivalent).
- Learners must achieve Functional Skills Level 2 (GCSE grade 4 equivalent) before completion.
Expected Outcomes
On completion, apprentices will:
- Confidently lead others in delivering high-quality early years education.
- Manage people, practice, and provision to ensure exceptional outcomes for children.
- Achieve the Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship Standard.
- Gain additional qualifications:
- Safeguarding
- Paediatric First Aid
- NCFE Level 5 Diploma for Early Years Senior Practitioner
- Safeguarding
Why Choose Skern?
At Skern Training and Skills, we are passionate about helping individuals and organisations achieve their full potential through high-quality training and real-world learning.
Our approach is built around understanding each employer’s goals and culture, ensuring every programme delivers meaningful impact. By combining expert delivery, flexible learning models, and a highly supportive partnership approach, we help apprentices grow in confidence, capability, and professionalism.
- Tailored learning – adapted to your organisation
- Experienced trainers – early years specialists
- Flexible delivery – on-site, online, and blended
- Experiential learning – optional residential programmes
- Supportive approach – close employer partnership
Get the brochure
For full details of our Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship programme.
Funding
This apprenticeship can be fully funded through your Apprenticeship Levy Account if you are a Levy-paying employer.
If you are a Non-Levy paying employer, the government will fund 95% of the total cost, with the employer contributing the remaining 5%.
However, for apprentices aged 16 to 21, the government will fully fund 100% of the cost, with no employer contribution required.
Additionally, Skern can support you in identifying and applying for Levy Transfer funds, which can cover the full cost for other age groups—making the apprenticeship 100% fully funded for all eligible learners.
Register your interest
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