To find out more information and enrol, please visit the website (below): United Learning Apprenticeships

The Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship develops skilled early years professionals who drive high-quality practice, shape enriching learning environments, and nurture children’s development and wellbeing.

Apprentices gain the expertise to lead on pedagogy, curriculum implementation, staff development, and family engagement - making a lasting impact during the most vital stage of a child’s learning journey.

Modules Included:

• Leading with purpose in Early Years: This module helps apprentices understand their strengths and development needs as leaders. Learners explore how to set the tone for their setting by modelling what high‑quality practice looks and feels like.

• Safeguarding & CP leadership: Apprentices develop confidence in embedding safeguarding into everyday practice, not just policy. The module focuses on building strong partnerships with families to create a safe and supportive environment for children.

• Excellence in SEND & inclusion: This module ensures inclusion is visible in all aspects of provision and partnership. Apprentices learn how to lead SEND support that is proactive, child‑centred, and aligned with best practice.

• Child development & wellbeing leadership: Apprentices deepen their understanding of how children grow, connect, and express themselves from birth. The module focuses on leading practice that nurtures the whole child - head, heart, body, and voice.

• Play, creativity & curriculum design: This module explores play as the golden thread that ties learning and joy together. Apprentices learn to design creative learning experiences that foster curiosity and meet individual developmental needs.

• SEMH for early learning & Life: Apprentices recognise the importance of social, emotional, and mental health in early years development. The module focuses on creating environments where children feel safe to explore, fail, and flourish.

• Observation & assessment: This module develops skills in using observations to inform planning and provision. Apprentices learn how to lead assessment that is purposeful, respectful, and supports effective decision‑making.

• Family & agency partnerships: Apprentices learn to work alongside families as true partners and collaborate confidently with professionals. The module includes contributing to multi‑agency plans and holding the child at the centre of all decisions.

• Leading & inspiring teams in Early Years: This module prepares apprentices to lead with calm, clarity, and compassion. Learners build strong, reflective teams committed to children’s development and joy, using strategies that inspire and motivate others.

• Enabling indoor & outdoor environments: Apprentices explore how to use both indoor and outdoor spaces as powerful learning environments. The module focuses on creating areas that promote curiosity, movement, and creativity.

End Point Assessment:

• Practical Observation: Workplace tracking of leadership duties paired with professional questioning.

• Professional Discussion: A dedicated, portfolio-backed interview with an independent assessor.

• Case Study: A 4,000-word project report and final presentation covering a local child development initiative.