Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship
The Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship equips learners with the essential skills, knowledge, and confidence to work with babies and young children in a range of early years settings. Apprentices will gain a deep understanding of child development, health and safety, safeguarding, and play-based learning — preparing them to support children’s growth, wellbeing, and education.
Delivered nationally by Skern Training and Skills, this programme combines professional experience, expert-led teaching, and personalised support to help apprentices thrive in their role and make a positive difference in children’s lives.
You may also be involved in:
During the apprenticeship, you’ll take part in a wide range of activities that reflect the responsibilities of an Early Years Practitioner, including:
- Supporting the learning, development, and wellbeing of children aged 0–5 years.
- Planning and delivering purposeful play and learning activities.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues, parents, and professionals.
- Ensuring the safety and hygiene of the setting at all times.
- Supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
- Promoting children’s physical activity, health, and wellbeing.
- Applying safeguarding procedures to ensure every child is safe and supported.
Core Knowledge Areas
Child development in early years
Early years curriculum and learning frameworks
- An understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and its principles.
- The role of observation, assessment, and planning within early years education.
- How educational programmes support children’s learning across the prime and specific areas.
Health, safety, and safeguarding
- Key legislation and guidance relating to health, safety, and welfare in early years settings.
- Safeguarding and child protection policies, including recognising signs of concern.
- The importance of risk management and promoting children’s physical wellbeing.
Equality, diversity, and inclusive practice
- The principles of equality and inclusion within early years environments.
- Understanding barriers to learning and participation, including SEND.
- The role of early years practitioners in promoting positive attitudes and respectful practice.
Professional roles and partnership working
- The responsibilities and expectations of an Early Years Practitioner.
- The importance of partnership working with parents, carers, and other professionals.
- How effective communication supports continuity of care and learning for children.
Key Skills
Supporting development and learning
- Engage and communicate effectively with children to encourage curiosity and confidence.
- Contribute to planning and delivering play-based learning experiences.
Partnership and collaboration
- Work alongside parents, carers, and professionals to support each child’s needs.
- Contribute to team planning, reflection, and improvement.
Health, safety, and wellbeing
- Follow safeguarding and child protection procedures.
- Maintain a safe, hygienic, and inclusive environment.
Influencing Skills
- Clearly explain product features, benefits, and risks.
- Offer options that help customers make informed, confident, and safe choices.
Programme Details
Duration
The apprenticeship will take a minimum of 14 months.
Entry Requirements
- Must be working directly with children in an early years setting.
- GCSE Grade 1 in English and Maths (or equivalent).
- Learners must achieve Functional Skills Level 1 (GCSE grade 2/3 equivalent) and work towards Level 2 before completion.
Expected Outcomes
On completion, apprentices will:
- Confidently support children’s learning and development.
- Demonstrate safeguarding and professional practice competence.
- Achieve the Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship Standard.
- Complete value-adding courses:
- Safeguarding
- Paediatric First Aid
- 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 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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