Early Years Lead Practitioner Level 5 Apprentice
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Company: NEXT STEP TRAINING LTD
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Location: Forest Hill, SE23 1EG
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Type: Apprenticeship
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Salary: Competitive Salary
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Sector: Education and early years
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Ref: NAS-2000022401
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Application Deadline Date: 10/04/2026
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Start Date: 13/04/2026
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Positions Available: 5
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Working Week: Monday to Friday, varied shifts between 6.30am - 6.00pm. No weekends.
Brief Description
Enjoy regular team events, free or discounted travel, exclusive discounts at 350+ retailers, and reduced council tax once registered as an apprentice. You’ll also receive 28 days of paid holiday (including bank holidays), company pension, rewards and incentives, plus a clear, structured career pathway.
Training to be Provided
Training is delivered through a flexible blend of in-person sessions at our Hackney training centre and online learningwith 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
- Stay engaged throughout the programme
- Monthly lesson attendance is required, either online or in person, to ensure consistent progress and support
Future Prospects
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.
With this advanced qualification, individuals are equipped to:
- 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
Career progression opportunities after completing the Level 5 include:
- 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 their 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.
Vacancy Detail
Training:
- Your full role and responsibilities will be set out by your employer
NextStep Training will provide you with all of 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
Qualifications required:
- 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
Skills required:
- Great communication skills
- Excellent organisational skills
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Creative thinker
- Passionate and reliable