Recruitment support
Funding available
Thrive Early Years Educator Apprenticeship Level 3
Termly starts
Delivered in partnership between Best Practice Network and Thrive.
AT A GLANCE
Typical duration: 15 months
CHECK-CIRCLE Virtual sessions and face-to-face tutoring
CHECK-CIRCLE 100% funded or maximum employer fee £350
CHECK-CIRCLE Count towards EYFS child:staff ratios
Early Years Educator Level 3 Qualification
There are so many opportunities in childcare. In my opinion, it’s one of the most rewarding jobs you can do!”
Caitlin, Early Years apprentice
Become a Thrive Early Years Educator
Would you like to make a real difference in children’s lives?
The Thrive Early Years Educator Apprenticeship (Level 3) is designed to give you the skills, knowledge and confidence to work with children aged 0–5 in early years settings.
Delivered by Best Practice Network and Thrive, this 15–18 month programme combines hands-on experience with expert training in child development, wellbeing and inclusion.
What you will achieve
• A nationally recognised Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification
• Skills to support children’s learning and emotional wellbeing
• Confidence to work as part of a team and even mentor others
• The chance to make a lasting difference in young children’s lives
What you will learn
• Child development
• Safeguarding
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Supporting children with Special Education Needs (SEND)
• Building positive behaviour and wellbeing through Thrive
• And so much more!
How is the apprenticeship delivered?
The course is delivered in around 15 months, including monthly webinars, tutor visits and online coursework. The below table breaks down how the programme is delivered.
Tutor Visits
Your journey with us
• Learn in a supportive way – a blend of virtual classrooms, oneto-one tutor visits and practical workplace tasks.
• Personal support – your tutor will guide you and you’ll have access to wellbeing resources like BPN Boost.
• Easy online learning – our userfriendly platform Bud keeps everything in one place.
Why Thrive + Best Practice Network?
Together, we bring combined expertise in both education and emotional wellbeing – helping you feel supported every step of the way.
We’re proud to offer a supercharged apprenticeship that blends Thrive’s expertise in social and emotional wellbeing with Best Practice Network’s award-winning reputation as an “Exceptional training provider” (DfE). This unique partnership combines Thrive’s proven track record of empowering educators to improve children’s wellbeing with BPN’s commitment to delivering a top-tier learning experience. Giving you the very best support in both education and emotional wellbeing, every step of the way.
How is it funded?
Up to 100% funded using the Apprenticeship Levy or maximum employer contribution of £350. Zero cost to the apprentice.
Eligibility
You can apply for this apprenticeship if:
• You work (or want to work) with children aged 0–5 in an early years setting
• You live in England and have been here for the past 3 years
• You have the support of your employer (if you don’t have one, we may be able to find you a placement)
• You’re happy to work towards maths and English (if you don’t already have the GCSEs, for 16–18 year olds only). Don’t worry we’ll support you with this!
If you’ve already completed your Level 2 apprenticeship, this is the perfect next step. But even if you’re just starting out, this apprenticeship could help you grow into roles like Early Years Educator, Nursery Nurse or Childminder.
With the right support in place,
there are no limits to what you can achieve.”
Amanda Marsden, SENCO at Best Practice Network
I cannot fault the support I’ve received in any way. Any queries or questions I have are answered promptly and I feel my confidence is rising as I know I will receive any support needed.”
Early Years Apprentice
Ready to apply?
Be part of something special – helping every child feel safe, supported and ready to learn.
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