Early Years Lead Practitioner Level 5 Apprentice

Next Step Training Ltd is an apprenticeship and skills training provider, funded by the Department for Education, delivering apprenticeships in London and across England. We have operated since 2012 and work with employers and individual learners to design and deliver training programmes that meet both learner and employer needs. Our aim is to empower individuals to reach their full potential and help them on their journey to meaningful careers. We also support businesses with industry-expert staff to provide the best learning experiences for their workforce.

Completing the Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship marks a significant step forward in a professional early years career. This qualification is designed for experienced practitioners who are ready to take on more senior leadership responsibilities within early years settings.

• Lead day-to-day practice across a setting or team
• Mentor and support junior staff and apprentices
• Drive improvements in pedagogy, curriculum planning, and safeguarding
• Influence policies and strategies that enhance child development and wellbeing
• Act as a role model, demonstrating high standards of care and education

• Room Leader or Senior Practitioner
• Deputy Manager or Nursery Manager
• Early Years Coordinator or Curriculum Lead
• SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator)
• Early Years Quality Improvement Officer

For those looking to continue professional development, the Level 5 qualification can also serve as a stepping stone towards:

• A Foundation Degree in Early Years or Education
• A BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies
• Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) or Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
• Assessor, Trainer, or Tutor roles in early years education

This pathway supports individuals in becoming confident, reflective, and influential leaders in early years education, capable of shaping high-quality learning environments and driving positive outcomes for children.

Your full role and responsibilities will be set out by your employer. Next Step Training will provide you with all the on-the-job training you need to up-skill in your role. Your 20% off-the-job learning will be incorporated as part of your working day.

• Knowledge of the statutory framework for the EYFS and regulatory requirements (Desirable)
• Fluent in written and spoken English (Essential)
• Passionate about learning and developing into a new role (Essential)

• Great communication skills
• Excellent organisational skills
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Creative thinker
• Passionate and reliable

Training is delivered through a flexible blend of in-person sessions at our Hackney training centre and online learning with guidance from our experienced tutors. You will be working towards the Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship Standard, which includes:

• Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours required for advanced leadership roles in Early Years settings
• Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner
• Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English (if not already achieved)
• Development of coaching, mentoring, and strategic planning skills to lead practice and support staff across your setting

Apprentices will use the Laser Learning Platform to complete and submit coursework, monitor progress in real time, access learning materials and tutor feedback, and stay engaged throughout the programme. Monthly lesson attendance is required, either online or in person, to ensure consistent progress and support.

Monday to Friday, varied shifts between 6.30am – 6.00pm. No weekends.