One of the most important roles in all of society: the safeguarding and education of future generations. Working in childcare involves supervising play and other activities for pre-school age children, as well as assisting teachers and caring for children in day or residential nurseries, children’s homes and private households.
Programmes and qualifications available
This occupation is found in a range of private and public settings including; full day care, children’s centres, pre-schools, reception classes, playgroups, nursery schools, home based provision, hospitals, social care settings, out of school environments and local authority provision to deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements set by government for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 in both indoor and outdoor environments.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to work and interact directly with children on a day to day basis supporting the planning of and delivery of activities, purposeful play opportunities and educational programmes within the ethos of the setting. An EYP works as part of a professional team ensuring the welfare and care for children under the guidance and supervision of an Early Years Educator, teacher or other suitably qualified professional the Early Years Workforce.
Early Years Educators, and other job roles such as nursery nurse and childminders, are highly trained professionals who play a key role in ensuring that young children learn and develop well and are kept healthy and safe. They work in a range of settings including full day care, children’s centres, pre schools, reception classes and as childminders. They may either be working on their own or supervising others to deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements set by Government for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 years old.
Facilities and support
As an Early Years apprentice with Activate Apprenticeships, you will have access to the following facilities at Activate Learning colleges:
- Libraries and learning environments
- Ability to borrow books and laptops
- Digital resources and programmes
- A student card – allowing you to take advantage of student discounts
- Can apply for an Apprentice extra Totum Card
Advice and support services for apprentices includes:
- Advice and Admissions
- Learning Support
- Student Support
- Impartial careers advisors
- 1:1 support
- A college nurse
- Free counselling service
Career pathways
An Early Years apprenticeship can lead to a rewarding career in a variety of roles in the care industry. You may choose to progress with your employer, change jobs or study a higher-level apprenticeship.