An early years educator (EYE) is a highly trained professional who plays 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 the government for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 years old.
An early years educator plans and supervises child-initiated and adult-led activities which are based on the needs and interests of each child. An EYE supports children to develop numeracy and language skills through games and play. They have key person responsibility to help ensure each child feels safe and secure. An EYE observes each child and shapes their learning experience to reflect their observations and meet the care needs of the individual child such as feeding, changing nappies and administration of medicine. They work in partnership with other colleagues, parents and/or carers or other professionals to meet the individual needs of each child.
With additional experience, an early years educator can become the manager of an early years setting.
Individuals will undergo all the checks as per the EYFS requirements to ensure suitability to work with children.
The broad purpose of an Early Years Practitioner level 3 is to create a greater understanding of the importance of the Early Years Practitioner role in the Early Years sector. This course has a more in-depth focus on a variety of topics, as a result enabling the development of specialist knowledge and skills. The learner will identify theories of child development, how to enhance teaching and learning and how children’s needs and interests can be tailored to individual requirements. The learner will increase their understanding of working as a team and ensure the provision meets the government's requirements.
You will attend regular coaching sessions with a qualified and industry-experienced Apprenticeship Coach who will conduct remote/face-to-face sessions lasting approximately 1 hour. (During this time, you will be set work to undertake as part of your off-the-job training). At quarterly intervals, you will receive a face-to-face visit to discuss progress and learning with practical activities being reviewed where necessary.
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 the Government for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 years old.
End-Point Assessment methods: Knowledge test Professional Discussion underpinned by portfolio/In advance of the gateway, apprentices will need to have:
Management positions within a childcare setting and possible progression onto Early Years Lead Practitioner
