District One Training
District One Training

L3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship

95% Government Funded + £350 Employer Contribution

4.9

The L3 Early Years Educator is a 8-18 month apprenticeship ideal for employees who support and promote children and young people’s early education and development.
Early years educator montessori diploma l3

Apprenticeship Overview

District One Training icon learning

Blended Learning

District One Training icon training uk

Apprenticeship Organisation

District One Training icon duration

Duration 8 - 18 months

Early years educator apprenticeship banner 2

What Will You Learn:

Entry Requirements

District One Training entry requirements
District One Training classroom setting with children and teacher engaged in Montessori activity

Combine a Montessori qualification

We’re the only National Provider to combine the L3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship with the Montessori Diploma, to become a qualified Montessori Teacher working in a Montessori nursery.

Apprenticeship Funding

Levy employers – if your organisation has an annual payroll over £3 million and over 50 employees, you are classed as a levy-paying employer. You’ll already be contributing to the Apprenticeship Levy and can use these funds to fully cover the cost of this apprenticeship.
District One Training apprenticeships funding

Meet Our Development Coaches

Laura Tompkins

Alice Agatea

Elaine Jenkins

Jo Stocker

Tracy Cox

What Our Students Say

“Being an apprentice with District One Training was an opportunity I am so grateful for. My tutor was such an amazing person to work with. She was supportive but made sure I was producing the best work I could possibly put out.”
M
MariumCompleted apprenticeship in Feb 2025
“Great training company. We train all of our staff here. The trainers/tutors are excellent. They are the best!”
MM
Montessori MindsEarly Years Setting
“From the moment we made contact about training they were superb. Communication has been great and the advice through the whole process.”
TS
Timothy StephensAcorns Preschool

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers on enrolling, entry requirements and what to expect on the L3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship.

Still have questions?

Need clarity before you start? Speak with our team and get direct answers tailored to you.

Book Consultation
How can I enrol in the apprenticeship?
To enrol in the apprenticeship, you must already be working in an Early Years setting. The employer will contact us and complete a few forms to have everything in place, ready to take on an apprentice!

Once the employer has completed this, we will send a self-registration link to the learner, where they add all their details to our E-portfolio. After this we will arrange an onboarding meeting with the employer, learner and ourselves, where we confirm all the details are correct and everyone understands the requirements & expectations.

When can I start the Apprenticeship?
Our Early Years apprenticeships can be started at any time.
Are there any requirements for this Apprenticeship?
Yes, there a few requirements to keep in mind:

  • Working in an Early Years setting to be able to meet work experience requirements for the ages of 0-5 years
  • Have lived in the UK or EEA/EU for the last 3+ years (With a valid form of ID)
  • 16 years of age and over and not receiving other government funding (e.g. for college or university).
  • There are no specific entry requirements however learners should have a minimum of level two in literacy and numeracy or equivalent.
  • There is not a requirement for learners to have GCSE grades A*–C in English prior to commencing this qualification however learners should be aware that this is required to attain Early Years Educator status.

To enter EPA you must also hold a valid EYFS-recognised Paediatric First Aid certificate, however, this can be completed during your apprenticeship.

If you don’t meet the requirements you may be eligible to enrol into our privately funded course instead.

I’m new to early years, where should I start?
If you or a staff member is brand new to Early Years, then the Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship may be what you're looking for. It serves as an entry point, offering hands-on experience, structured training, and a nationally recognised qualification. 

Apprentices benefit from mentorship and support while contributing to children's development in Early Years settings. This apprenticeship opens doors for career progression and provides a solid foundation for further growth within the sector.

What career options are available with this qualification?

This qualification holds significant value, counting in ratio at Level 3, enabling roles such as Nursery Teacher, Room Leader, or Manager.

Additionally, our students and apprentices have demonstrated remarkable career trajectories. Notable roles our graduates have transitioned into includes:

  • Nursery Owner
  • Nursery Manager
  • Deputy Manager
  • Room Leader
  • Early Years Educator
What if I don’t have an English and maths qualification?
If you are aged 16 - 18 years old and do not have GCSE English & Maths grade C/4 or Functional Skills equivalent, it is a government requirement to study L2 Functional Skills English & Maths, we will support you alongside the apprenticeship to achieve your functional skills English & Maths.

If you are 19+ years old and don’t have GCSE English & Maths grade C/4 or Functional Skills equivalent, you will have the opportunity to study Functional Skills English & Maths, but is not an apprenticeship requirement.

However, as English is a requirement by the EYFS to be fully qualified, we recommend you study English as part of your programme.

How quick can I complete the apprenticeship?
The standard time the L3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship takes is between 8 - 18 months, this fluctuates based on when you enter gateway to completion.

You can enter the gateway to completion at 8 months.

What will I be expected to do day-to-day?
The apprenticeship works in tandem with your everyday job. The employer has a responsibility to provide sufficient off-the-job hours, where you can take time to develop skills outside of your job role. There will be an expectation of outside learning in your personal time as this is a L3 which is equivalent to an A-level.
What is Off-the-job Training?
Off-the-job training is a government requirement and must take place during your normal paid working hours. It’s an essential part of your apprenticeship, designed to help you build the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed for your role and further career progression.

This training includes a wide range of planned learning activities, such as online teaching sessions, in-house training, workplace assessments, supervisions, work-based tasks, and projects. The idea is to gain new experiences and develop professionally beyond your day-to-day duties.

Login

View your courses and current progess:

Register

Don't have an account? Register here:

Find the Perfect Course or Apprenticeship Tailored to your needs!

Answer a few simple questions and we’ll guide you to the right course or apprenticeship.

District One learners and tutors

Ready to take the next step?

Talk to our team about funding, start dates and the right route for you or your staff. No obligation.