EARLY YEARS CHILDCARE APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING

Level 3 Early Years Educator
Apprenticeship (Men in Childcare Pathway)

Empower the Next Generation –        Champion Men in Childcare

We are proud to offer the Men in Childcare pathway in partnership with Male Childcare & Teaching Jobs. This initiative focuses on addressing the gender imbalance in the sector by championing the role of men in nurseries and schools.

This is The Childcare Company: the UK’s leading and most trusted childcare training provider

Your Level 3 Early Years Course at a glance

Level:
3

Duration:
18 months

Format/Delivery Method:
A blend of online and in-person Ofsted-approved training

This will suit you if you are:
An experienced childcare assistant wishing to become room leaders or to manage an Early Years provision

Key Features:
Learners who complete this programme will be awarded a full and relevant Level 3 qualification once a passing grade has been achieved at the End-Point Assessment

Cost/Funding:
For Levy-Payers: £7000
For Non-Levy Payers: £350


Level 3 Early Years Educator (Men in Childcare): Programme Overview

This Level 3 apprenticeship training programme develops the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to work in an Early Years setting, with the opportunity to take responsibility for leading Early Years provision.

As part of our commitment to reshaping the landscape of childcare and education, we are proud to offer the Men in Childcare pathway in partnership with Male Childcare & Teaching Jobs. This initiative focuses on addressing the gender imbalance in the sector by championing the role of men in nurseries and schools. Through tailored mentorship, networking opportunities, and targeted support, this pathway empowers male educators to thrive in early years settings and become role models for future generations.

This programme is suitable for experienced childcare assistants and those looking to become room leaders or manage Early Years provision.

At the end of this training programme, you will be awarded a Full and Relevant Level 3 qualification once a passing grade has been achieved at the End-Point Assessment.

You're In Safe Hands

Male Childcare & Teaching Jobs

In partnership with Male Childcare & Teaching Jobs, The Childcare Company is proud to offer the Men in Childcare pathway as part of the Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship. Male Childcare & Teaching Jobs is an organisation dedicated to reshaping the landscape of childcare and education by promoting gender diversity in the sector.

Their mission is to address the gender imbalance in nurseries and schools, ensuring that children benefit from the presence of both male and female educators. Through advocacy, mentorship, and career support, they are committed to empowering men to pursue and excel in early years education roles.

About the Men in Childcare Pathway

This unique programme provides:

Specialist Mentorship

Guidance from experienced male educators to help build confidence and skills

Networking Opportunities

A supportive community of like-minded professionals

Career Progression

Pathways to leadership roles within early years education

Practical Experience

Hands-on learning combined with expert training

By joining this programme, you will gain a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification while helping to break down traditional stereotypes and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse early years workforce.

What You’ll Gain as an Employer

Building a Diverse and Skilled Workforce
Empower male educators to step into leadership roles by upskilling entry-level or assistant employees who show potential. This apprenticeship supports men in developing their skills and confidence while promoting diversity in Early Years settings.

Training Tailored to Your Childcare Setting
By nurturing male role models in Early Years education, you create well-rounded teams that reflect the diverse world children grow up in. This apprenticeship ensures your leaders are trained to meet the needs of your setting while fostering inclusivity.

Excellence in Early Years Care
Our expert Development Coaches embed the highest childcare standards and best practices into every aspect of learning. Apprentices gain the latest tools and techniques to ensure outstanding care, creating a lasting impact on young children.

Trust and Representation for Families
A diverse childcare team provides families with confidence in your setting’s inclusivity and commitment to high-quality care. Investing in male educators helps break stereotypes while offering children a variety of role models to support their growth and learning.

What You’ll Gain as a Learner

Becoming a Role Model in Early Years
Step into a leadership role and inspire the next generation by bringing diversity and fresh perspectives to Early Years education. You'll develop the confidence to lead teams, ensuring safeguarding and welfare standards are met while creating a nurturing environment for children.

Expanding Your Expertise
Build on your existing experience and develop new skills tailored to leadership in Early Years settings. This programme equips you with the tools to elevate your career while empowering those around you to grow and thrive.

Advancing Your Career
This apprenticeship opens doors to senior roles within childcare, helping you refine your teaching approach and explore inclusive, play-based learning techniques. Your expertise will make you a valuable asset in any Early Years setting.

Ongoing Support from Industry Experts
Our experienced Development Coaches are dedicated to your success. They’ll guide you every step of the way, ensuring you gain the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to become a strong and influential leader in Early Years education.

What Will You Learn During Your Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship?

The Level 3 Early Years Educator (Men in Childcare) qualification will incorporate a rich and insightful mix of theoretical and practical learning, including:

Learning Foundations

Month 1

CIAG/Reflective Practice, CPD and the role of an Early Years Educator

(Includes Guest Speaker - Challenges of Men in Early Years Education and How to Overcome Them)

Month 2 (includes Functional Skills support where applicable)

Safeguarding Children in the Early Years Sector

Month 3

Health, Safety and Risk Management Practices

Month 4

Children’s Well-being, Resilience and their Rights through Respectful Care

(Includes Guest Speaker - Prevent Duty and Gender-Related Extremism)

Continued

Month 5

Learning and Development

Includes Paediatric First Aid Certificate

Month 6

Transitions and Significant Events

Month 7

The EYFS in Practice and The Role of The Key Person

(Includes Guest Speaker - Tackling Gender Stereotypes in the Classroom Through the Curriculum and Teaching Practices)

Month 8

Theories and Approaches

Month 9 (including Functional Skills Achievement where applicable)

Play and Social Interactions

Includes Level 2 Certificate in Special Education Needs and Disabilities

Month 10

Environments and Daily Routines

(Includes Guest Speaker - Creating a Fostering Environment for All Genders in Early Years)

Continued

Month 11

Learning and Development through Observation, Assessment and Planning

Month 12

EDI and The Inclusion of All Children

(Includes Guest Speaker - Benefits of a Gender-Mixed Teaching Workforce)

Month 13

Professional and Collaborative Relationships

Month 14

Evidencing Reflective Practice and CPD

(Includes Guest Speaker - Exploring Career Opportunities Within the Early Years)

Month 15

Behaviours in Practice and Preparing for EPA

Months 16 to 18

Gateway and End Point Assessment (EPA)

+ Progression IAG Session

Achievement

Embedded Certifications for Comprehensive Early Years Training

First Response First Aid (FRFA) Paediatric First Aid (Level 3 Certificate)

 

As part of the Level 3 Early Years Educator (Men in Childcare) apprenticeship, learners will complete a Level 3 Paediatric First Aid Certificate provided by our sister company, First Response First Aid (FRFA).

This 12-hour course meets Ofsted requirements and equips apprentices with essential first aid skills to confidently respond to emergencies in early years settings. Upon successful completion, learners will receive a Level 3 Paediatric First Aid Certificate, valid for three years. Yearly refresher training is recommended.

Level 2 Certificate in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

 

At Month 9 of the apprenticeship, learners will complete a Level 2 Certificate in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This 12-week programme enhances understanding of SEND conditions, inclusive practices, and legal frameworks. Apprentices will develop the skills to support individuals with SEND, provide guidance to families, and promote inclusive learning environments..

Upon completion, learners will achieve an accredited Level 2 TQUK qualification in SEND, further enhancing their expertise in early years education.

Is This Course For You?

The Level 3 Early Years Educator (Men in Childcare) Apprenticeship is designed to support male educators in stepping into leadership roles within Early Years settings. If you’re passionate about making a difference in children’s lives and breaking gender stereotypes in childcare, this programme will help you develop the skills, confidence, and expertise to lead. You might currently be working as a:

Early Years Practitioner

You’ve gained hands-on experience in childcare and are now ready to take the next step into a leadership or room leader role, guiding and mentoring others in the sector.

Aspiring Male Role Model

You want to challenge gender norms and show young children the value of diverse role models in their early development while growing your own career in the sector.

Future Childcare Leader

Your goal is to supervise and inspire a team of Early Years professionals, ensuring they deliver the highest standards of care, education, and inclusivity for young children.

Why The Childcare Company is Your Best Choice

Training that’s accessible anytime, anywhere – even on the go

Early Years Apprenticeships are funded up to 100% by the government*

High-quality, user-friendly e-learning platform for course modules

Join a thriving community of like-minded childcare professionals

Our dedicated Development Coaches are renowned for delivering excellence in childcare education

Be assured by our years of success in helping others to thrive

Create Lasting Impact: The Data Speaks Volumes

99%

Employer Satisfaction Rate

99%

End-Point Assessment Success

95%

Learner Satisfaction Rate

90%

Learner Retention Rate

Apply for the Early Years Educator apprenticeship in 3 easy steps:

Register Your Interest

01

Complete the form below and submit your details

Talk to Our Team

02

A brief phone chat to check eligibility and secure your spot

Claim your Funding

03

We’ll guide you through everything you need to do to cover costs

More Food For Thought

Level 2

Early Years Practitioner

Duration: 16 months including End-Point Assessment

Suitable for: Entry-level childcare assistants wishing to make a meaningful impact in Early Years childcare and enhance career prospects.

Level 5

Early Years Lead Practitioner

Duration: 21 months including End-Point Assessment

Suitable for: Senior childcare professionals, such as Room Leaders, Early Years Leads, Deputy Managers or Managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

This apprenticeship is designed to equip male educators with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in Early Years settings. Whether you’re looking to step into a leadership role, mentor junior colleagues, or enhance your expertise, this programme will help you develop a deeper understanding of how to teach, lead, and supervise in childcare.

By the end of the course, you’ll be fully prepared to take on new responsibilities, confidently lead and support teams, and provide families with the reassurance that their children are in capable hands. Upon successful completion, you’ll earn a full and relevant Level 3 qualification after passing the End-Point Assessment.

Early Years education is an incredibly rewarding career where you play a vital role in shaping a child’s early development. It’s essential to have the right skills and knowledge to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment while also providing parents with peace of mind.

This programme is designed to support male educators in developing the confidence, leadership skills, and professional expertise needed to progress in their careers and make a lasting impact in childcare settings. Whether you’re new to the sector or looking to advance, this pathway provides invaluable training and mentorship to help you succeed.

The Level 3 apprenticeship qualification is the academic equivalent to an A’ Level.

As a learner, nothing at all. As an employer, course costs will be covered by levy funding. If your business is not a levy payer, 95% of course costs will be covered by government funding.

The remaining 5% of the £7,000 fee works out at just £350. For the value this will add to your CV and your team at work, the return on your employer’s small investment is a cost-effective way for you to help boost your employer’s business as a whole.

While a Level 3 higher national diploma is an intermediate-level course, achieving any qualification takes work and dedication. That said whether you are a learner or a business, The Childcare Company will provide all the resources and support you could ever need. We’ll work alongside you to ensure your success.

The Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship runs for a total of 18 months. However, you do have the opportunity to finish earlier, depending on your preferred pace of working.

The delivery of the course is a blend of online and in-person learning.

Let's change lives

As a national training provider, The Childcare Company is dedicated to raising the standard of childcare across the UK.

Whether supporting individuals to excel their day-to-day work, or childcare providers make a positive impact on the people they serve, and on the economy as a whole, we are here every step of the way.

Complete the form below to reach out to The Childcare Company team. Begin the journey to accessing untapped potential, and transforming the lives of children and families for the better.

For more information, complete the form below, call us on 01753 596 004, or email us.

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