Termly starts
Coaching in the Early Years Apprenticeship Level 5
Strengthen your practice to inspire others and lead with confidence.
AT A GLANCE
Course duration: 9 months
CHECK-CIRCLE Monthly coaching sessions
CHECK-CIRCLE Online learning + training events
CHECK-CIRCLE For early years professionals with coaching or mentoring experience
ILM Level 5 Certificate in Effective Coaching and Mentoring
Coaching helps you listen, reflect and support real change - both for children and teams.”
Sian Marsh, Early Years Director
Become an Early Years coach
This is the first coaching apprenticeship built specifically for early years professionals like you.
Tailored for those who coach others - formally or informally - it equips you with proven, evidence-based techniques tailored to an early years context. Delivered over just 9 months, it’s flexible and designed to fit alongside your work.
You’ll earn an ILM Level 5 Certificate in Effective Coaching and Mentoring, all fully funded via the Apprenticeship Levy and free for learners.
What you will achieve
• A nationally recognised ILM Level 5 Certificate in Effective Coaching and Mentoring
• Confidence to support inclusion, wellbeing and resilience for both children and colleagues
• Recognition as a skilled coach and mentor, helping to shape future leaders in early years
What you will learn
Core coaching skills in context including:
• Active listening, powerful questioning and goal-setting
• Frameworks like GROW and CLEAR tailored for early years
• Building trusting coaching relationships and professional boundaries
• Reflective dialogue, structured feedback and resilience-building for inclusive practice
How is the apprenticeship delivered?
This programme combines practical coaching practice with an understanding of organisational contexts, early years leadership and personal development. The below table breaks down how the programme is delivered.
Your journey as an Early Years Coach
During this apprenticeship your supportive learning experience will include:
• Monthly online webinars to build your skills
• Monthly 1:1 sessions with a Tutor to guide your progress
• Reviews every 3 months between you, your employer and your Tutor
• Access to on-demand resources, tools and activities for learning at your pace
Why coaching in Early Years matters
Coaching creates space for reflection, professional trust and growth. In early years settings, even small improvements in adult practice can make a huge difference to children’s outcomes.
How is it funded?
Up to 100% funded using the Apprenticeship Levy or maximum employer contribution of £250. Zero cost to the apprentice.
Eligibility
This apprenticeship is perfect for early years professionals who:
• Coach or mentor others in their setting – formally or informally
• Want to refine their practice using structured coaching to support inclusive, reflective team development
• Live in England and have been here for the past 3 years
At Best Practice Network we recognise the impact skilled coaches and mentors have on the development of staff and future leaders. We’re excited to support participants in making a real difference through their coaching.”
Nicola Bostock-Hayes, Head of Mentoring
Ready to apply?
Become a coach, mentor and leader in early years and make an impact within your setting and beyond.
Apply now at bestpracticenet.co.uk or scan below!
Rated “an exceptional training provider” – Department for Education
+44 (0) 117 920 9428
enquiries@bestpracticenet.co.uk
bestpracticenet.co.uk/early-years
