Apprenticeship Training in Education and Child Care
Start or advance your career in childcare and education with High Ridge Training’s expert-led apprenticeship programmes
Early Years Practitioner
Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard
Role Profile
Work and interact directly with children on a day-to-day basis supporting the planning and delivery of activities and educational programmes. Operate under supervision to ensure welfare and care for children, supporting their learning and development in line with EYFS requirements.
Typical Duration
12 months
Apprentices develop knowledge, skills, and behaviours in:
• Child development and learning
• Safeguarding and welfare
• Health and safety
• Supporting play and educational activities
• Working with parents and professionals
• Observing and assessing children
Course Content
Typical Job Roles
• Nursery Assistant
• Early Years Practitioner
• Pre-school Assistant
• Childcare Assistant
End Point Assessment (EPA)
• Professional Discussion
• Observation with Questions
All elements must be passed to achieve the apprenticeship.
Additional Information and Requirements
Must meet EYFS suitability checks
English and Maths Level 1 required before EPA
Level 2 attempted
Funding Information
• Funding Band: £5,000
• Non-levy Employer Contribution: £300 (5%)
Government funding may be available to support training and assessment costs.
Progression Routes
Playworker
Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard
Role Profile
Playworkers care for and support children in taking responsibility for themselves and their own playing whilst creating a stimulating and adventurous space for children to learn and explore. They work in a range of play settings including community clubs, adventure playgrounds, mobile play provision, and more. Playworkers observe and monitor play to support development and safety, and subtly intervene when necessary to enhance play experiences.
Typical Duration
18 months
Apprentices develop knowledge, skills, and behaviours in:
Child-directed and child-controlled play
Observing and supporting children's development
Creating stimulating play environments
Risk-benefit assessments
Reflective practice and teamwork
Legal and safety standards in play settings
Course Content
Typical Job Roles
Engagement Worker
Inclusion/Support Playworker
Play Ranger
Playground Assistant
Playworker
End Point Assessment (EPA)
Knowledge Test (40 multiple-choice questions, 60 minutes)
Professional Discussion (60 minutes, based on portfolio)
Observation with Questions (minimum 3 hours, 4 questions)
All elements must be passed to achieve the apprenticeship.
Additional Information and Requirements
English and Maths qualifications must be achieved in line with apprenticeship funding rules.
Portfolio of evidence required before EPA gateway.
Reasonable adjustments available for apprentices with special considerations.
Funding Information
• Funding Band: £5,000
Progression Routes
Apprentices can progress to:
Higher-level roles in Playwork
Further education in child development or care services
Early Years Educator
Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard
Role Profile
Provide high quality early education and care to children, ensuring they learn and develop well and are kept healthy and safe. Support children with SEND and apply the EYFS framework in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Typical Duration
18 months
Apprentices develop knowledge, skills, and behaviours in:
Child development and learning
Safeguarding and welfare
Observation, assessment and planning
Supporting play and educational activities
Working with parents and professionals
Inclusive and holistic provision
Course Content
Typical Job Roles
Early Years Educator
Nursery Nurse
Nursery Educator
Childminder Assistant
End Point Assessment (EPA)
Knowledge Test
Professional Discussion
Observation with Questions
All elements must be passed to achieve the apprenticeship.
Additional Information and Requirements
Must complete all approved qualifications mandated in the standard
English and Maths Level 2 required before EPA
Funding Information
• Funding Band: £7,000
Progression Routes
Higher education in early years or education
Teaching Assistant
Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard
Role Profile
Teaching Assistants support the class teacher to enhance learners’ progress and development either in groups or individually. They work across all age ranges and settings including primary, secondary, special schools, and further education institutions. They help learners understand their work, promote positive learning behaviours, and support those with special educational needs and vulnerabilities.
Typical Duration
18 months
Apprentices develop knowledge, skills, and behaviours in:
Delivering individual and small group teaching
Supporting learners with SEND and SEMH needs
Promoting positive learning behaviours
Implementing safeguarding policies
Working with teachers and education professionals
Creating safe and stimulating learning environments
Course Content
Typical Job Roles
Assistant Teacher
Classroom Assistant
Learning Support Assistant
Learning Support Worker
Specialist Curriculum Support
Support Assistant
Teaching Assistant
End Point Assessment (EPA)
Observation with Questions (minimum 110 minutes, 4 questions)
Professional Discussion (90 minutes, based on portfolio, 10 questions)
All elements must be passed to achieve the apprenticeship.
Additional Information and Requirements
English and Maths at Level 2 must be achieved before the End Point Assessment.
Portfolio of evidence required before EPA gateway.
Reasonable adjustments available for apprentices with special considerations.
Funding Information
• Funding Band: £7,000
Progression Routes
Apprentices can progress to:
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
Initial Teacher Training (if holding a bachelor's degree)
Early Years Lead Practitioner
Level 5 Apprenticeship Standard
Role Profile
Lead day-to-day practice in early years settings, providing inclusive and holistic care and education. Act as a role model for play-based learning and support other practitioners. Engage with sector developments and demonstrate professional competence.
Typical Duration
24 months
Apprentices develop knowledge, skills, and behaviours in:
Child development and learning
Safeguarding and welfare
Leadership and mentoring
Observation, assessment and planning
Inclusive provision and SEND support
Communication and teamwork
Sector engagement and professional development
Course Content
Typical Job Roles
Lead Practitioner
Room Leader
Deputy Manager
Pre-school Leader
Early Years Coordinator
End Point Assessment (EPA)
Observation
Professional Discussion
Portfolio Review
All elements must be passed to achieve the apprenticeship.
Additional Information and Requirements
Must complete approved qualifications
English and Maths Level 2 required before EPA
Portfolio of evidence required
Funding Information
• Funding Band: £9,000
Progression Routes
Level 6 Early Years Pedagogical Lead
Management roles in early years settings
Further education in child development or education