Level 2 early years practitioner apprenticeship
Build the skills to support children’s learning, development and wellbeing
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 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.
During this apprenticeship learners will:
- Support the learning, development, and wellbeing of children aged 0–5 years.
- Plan and deliver purposeful play and learning activities.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, parents, and professionals.
- Ensure the safety and hygiene of the setting at all times.
- Support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
- Promote children’s physical activity, health, and wellbeing.
- Apply safeguarding procedures to ensure every child is safe and supported.
Core Knowledge Areas
- The stages and patterns of child development from birth to five years.
- How children learn and develop through play, exploration, and interaction.
- Factors that influence development, including environment, relationships, and individual needs.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
The apprenticeship will take a minimum of 14 months.
- 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.
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
For Employers
%20copy%207.webp)
Develop confident, qualified early years practitioners who enhance quality of care and education.
.jpeg)
Strengthen safeguarding and health and safety standards across your setting.
%20copy%206.webp)
Support staff retention and progression through structured professional development.
%20copy%205.jpeg)
Embed your organisation’s values, culture, and quality standards in everyday practice.
Why choose Skern?
At Skern 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
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
