Starting an apprenticeship is a big decision, whether you’re starting a career for the first time or considering a career change. If you’re thinking about working in early years childcare, an apprenticeship could offer you practical experience, training, and a nationally recognised qualification.

But how do you know if it’s the right path for you? Below, we’ve shared some of the top key questions people considering an early years childcare apprenticeship ask, and some answers to help you understand more about what options are available to you.

An Early Years Childcare Apprenticeship combines hands-on work experience with academic study. You’ll typically work in a nursery, preschool, or other early childhood settings while studying towards a qualification, such as a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner or a Level 3 Early Years Educator.

The apprenticeship focuses on providing the skills and knowledge needed to work with young children, covering topics such as child development, safeguarding, and planning educational activities. The balance of on-the-job experience and structured learning ensures that you are fully prepared for a career in early years childcare. Apprenticeships allow you to earn-whilst-you-learn, so you are paid for the work you do, whilst still allowing you to gain knowledge and training for your nationally-recognised qualification.

No! There is no upper age limit for apprenticeships in the UK. Whether you’re 20 or 50+, you can apply for an apprenticeship.

People often associate apprenticeships with school leavers, but more adults are choosing apprenticeships to upskill or change their career paths. Apprenticeships are designed to be accessible for individuals at all stages of life. If you’ve spent years in another profession and want to transition into early years childcare, an apprenticeship is an excellent way to gain the qualifications and experience you need. Employers value life experience, and as a mature apprentice, your previous skills and knowledge can be a valuable asset in your new role.

An apprenticeship in early years childcare opens the door to a variety of career paths. With a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification, you can pursue roles such as:

• Nursery Assistant – Working with children in nursery settings to support their development.
• Preschool Practitioner – Leading play-based learning activities for children aged 3-5.
• Childminder – Running your own business providing care in your own home.
• Teaching Assistant – Supporting teachers in primary school settings, especially in early years classes.
• Early Years Educator – Taking a more advanced role in shaping early childhood education programmes.

There is also the opportunity to progress to higher-level qualifications in childhood studies or early education, which can lead to leadership roles such as nursery management or becoming an Early Years Teacher. The skills you gain can also be transferable to careers in social work or child psychology.

Yes, there are various types of financial support available for apprentices in the UK. Apprentices earn a wage from their employer, but there are also additional grants and bursaries available to help with living costs, travel expenses, and childcare. Some examples include:

• Apprenticeship Bursary for Care Leavers: If you are aged 16-24 and have been in care, you may be eligible for a bursary of £1,000.
• Discretionary Learner Support: If you are struggling with financial hardship during your apprenticeship, you can apply for help with things like transport, meals, or equipment.
• Grants for Apprentices: Some local councils and employers offer grants to support apprentices in specific sectors, including early years childcare.

For more information on financial support, you can visit the official government apprenticeships site here, and a Google search for support available specific to your circumstance should help provide further insight into financial support you might be eligible for.

Absolutely! Apprenticeships are a great option if you’re considering a career change. Early years childcare is a rewarding and growing field, and employers are often keen to support individuals who bring diverse skills from previous careers.

Changing career paths can feel daunting, but an apprenticeship offers structured learning combined with the security of employment. You’ll earn a wage while training, so there’s no need to take time off for unpaid study. Many career changers find that an apprenticeship allows them to build the practical skills they need without having to commit to a full-time degree course.

Your previous work experience can also be an advantage. For example, if you’ve worked in customer service, management, or healthcare, these skills can be directly transferable when working with children and families. Many employers value apprentices who bring maturity and real-world experience to the job.

An apprenticeship is right for you if you:

• Enjoy working with children and want to play a key role in their development.
• Prefer learning through practical experience rather than just studying in a classroom.
• Are interested in a career where no two days are the same, and you can make a tangible difference in young lives.

Whether you are just starting out in your career or looking for a fulfilling career change, an apprenticeship can offer a flexible, supported pathway into a rewarding role in early years childcare.

Learn more about The London School of Childcare Early Years Childcare Apprenticeships here.