Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship
Various start dates from August 2025

The Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship is designed for individuals who are beginning their career in childcare and want to develop the essential skills needed to support young children’s learning and development. This programme provides a strong foundation for working in early years settings such as nurseries, pre-schools, and reception classes.

As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in a childcare environment while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 12 to 15 months and prepares you to work under supervision, supporting children’s wellbeing, play, and early education.

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You can also find your own employer. If you already have an employer who is willing to take you on as an apprentice, then click the yellow 'Express an Interest' button and we will ask for the employer details as part of the request

You’ll learn how to support children’s physical, emotional, and social development, as well as how to promote communication, language, and literacy. The course covers key topics such as safeguarding, health and safety, equality and diversity, and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.

You’ll also develop practical skills in planning and delivering age-appropriate activities, observing and recording children’s progress, and working effectively as part of a team in a childcare setting.

There are no formal qualifications needed to start the Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship—just a genuine interest in working with young children and a commitment to supporting their development. This programme is ideal for school leavers or individuals looking to begin a career in early years education.

However, some employers may set their own entry requirements, such as GCSEs in English and Maths. If you have not yet achieved a GCSE Grade 3/D or E (or equivalent) in these subjects, you will be required to complete Functional Skills Level 1 in English and Maths as part of your apprenticeship. Don’t worry—Bolton College will provide full support to help you achieve these essential qualifications alongside your training.

You’ll be assessed throughout the apprenticeship through practical observations, written assignments, and a portfolio of evidence. Your college tutor and employer will work with you to track your progress and support your development.

At the end of the programme, you’ll complete an End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes a professional discussion and a knowledge test to demonstrate your understanding and readiness to work as a qualified Early Years Practitioner.

In the first instance please send a message to apprenticeships@boltoncc.ac.uk

If you’re interested in this apprenticeship, the first step is to register your interest with Bolton College. This will add you to our mailing list so we can keep you informed about any upcoming apprenticeship vacancies or employer opportunities in your chosen field.

To begin the apprenticeship, you’ll need to secure employment with an organisation willing to support you as an apprentice. While it is your responsibility to find and apply for suitable roles, Bolton College is here to help. We have a dedicated Job Shop located within the college, where you can meet with an Employer Engagement Advisor for tailored support and advice on how to apply for vacancies and prepare for interviews.

Job Shop Opening Times:
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 3:30pm
Email: Job.shop@Boltoncc.ac.uk
Tel: 01204 482182

After completing this apprenticeship, you’ll be qualified to work as an Early Years Practitioner in a range of settings. You may also choose to progress onto the Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship to further develop your skills and take on more responsibility.

This qualification provides a great starting point for a long-term career in childcare and early education.

We have a range of dedicated support and wellbeing services including FREE travel, financial support, and impartial advice and guidance. Throughout your Apprenticeship, you’ll also receive one-to-one support from your dedicated Work Based Tutor, helping you to achieve your ambitions

We’re an elite College, and part of the University of Bolton Group, offering you a gateway to all of Greater Manchester’s vast range of fantastic opportunities for specialist careers, university degree courses and higher Apprenticeships.

We’ll reward your achievements with trips to The Anderton Outdoor Activity Centre and the opportunity to apply for the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Our £75 million campus offers a refurbished fitness suite and sports hall; Apple Mac suites; libraries, a lecture theatre; hair and beauty salon; and a restaurant, café and canteen.

You’ll also enjoy a wide range of events, including showcases, enterprise activities and cultural celebrations.

Click the yellow ‘Apply’ button on this page to express your interest.

You’ll be asked to set up a Learner Hub account, so that you can track your application. If we dont think you're ready for an Apprenticeship yet, we'll recommend a relevant Study Programme that could eventually lead to the Apprenticeship you're interested in.

If you have any difficulties setting up your Learner Hub account, please email learner.hub@boltoncc.ac.uk

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.