← All apprenticeships · Education and early years · ST0888

Level 2Intermediate · GCSE equivalent

Early years practitioner

Work and interact directly with children on a day to day basis supporting the planning of and delivery of activities.

Typical duration

1 year

Training funded

Fully funded

Route

Education and early years

Standard ref

ST0888

Where this apprenticeship leads

Early Education and Childcare PractitionersAI exposure 6% · Low

£20,000 - £25,000

£26,000 - £32,000

Full career profile - salary progression, top employers, AI outlook →

Role overview

Early years practitioners work under supervision in nurseries, childminders, and other settings, supporting the care and learning of babies and young children up to five years old. This Level 2 apprenticeship gives you practical skills in childcare routines, play, and basic EYFS knowledge as a starting point in an early years career. It typically leads on to the Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship.

Careers this apprenticeship leads to

Salary progression, top employers and day-to-day reality for the roles this standard prepares you for.

Early Education and Childcare Assistants

Apprenticeship route

Apprenticeship route

Family Support Worker

Apprenticeship route

Residential Childcare Practitioner

Apprenticeship route

Child and Early Years Officers n.e.c.