Clear development pathways for practitioners and settings
"Not
only do our programmes improve the quality of education and care in your setting, but they also boost your staff:child ratios!”
Sian Marsh, Director of Early Years and Education
Strengthen your team, improve ratios, and lighten your workload with Best Practice Network – one of the UK’s top-rated Early Years training providers.
We offer fully funded apprenticeships and other Early Years training programmes to help nurseries and childcare settings strengthen their teams.
We support nurseries by:
• Upskilling staff at all levels through fully funded apprenticeships
• Recruiting new apprentices at no cost to you
• Expanding capacity without disrupting daily routines
Help your staff grow with your setting! Whether they’re new or experienced, our programmes enhance their skills and help them develop as Early Years practitioners.
Find out how we can help your setting thrive! Ofsted-rated “Outstanding” for our Early Career Framework
If
we want to attract and retain staff in Early Years we need to give them the opportunities to gain excellent training and the chance to progress.”
You care for the children, we’ll take care of the training
Partnering with Best Practice Network means your team is fully supported, without placing extra demands on your time.
Our comprehensive support includes:
• Blended e-learning and expert tutor guidance to ensure learners gain all the knowledge and skills required for your setting.
• Trained workplace mentors who help learners apply their learning in practice and provide ongoing, hands-on support.
• Apprentice placement service — we offer a free matching service for settings looking to host apprentices. With hundreds of qualified candidates
While they train, you stay on course –fully supported, no disruption
We also manage the planning and tracking of off-the-job training hours, so your learners remain a fully active member of your team.
From induction to graduation, we take care of the details—so you can focus on what matters most.
Let your staff grow with confidence, without leaving you short-handed in your setting.
Off-the-Job training is an essential part of our apprenticeships.
The timetable below shows how a full-time Early Years Educator apprentice can complete 6 hours of off-the-job training each week without leaving the setting. Training is embedded into the daily routine, allowing apprentices to stay involved, support ratios and build skills in real time – learning while doing.
Monday
Tuesday
Morning Midday Afternoon
• Room set-up
• Free play
• Group activities
• Room set-up
• Storytelling observation (45 mins)*
• Snack time
Wednesday
• Room set-up
• Shadowing SENCO (45 mins)*
• Outdoor play
Thursday
• Room set-up
• Peer observation (30 mins)*
• Group activity
Friday
• Room set-up
• Outdoor play
• Reflective notes (30 mins)*
• Lunch prep
• Lunch break
• Nap time
• Lunch prep
• Lunch break
• eLearning (1 hr)*
• Lunch prep
• Lunch break
• Nap time
• Lunch prep
• Lunch break
• Nap time
• Lunch prep
• Lunch break
• Creative activity
• Outdoor play
• Tidy up
• Creative activity
• Outdoor play
• Weekly reflection (30 mins)*
• Creative activity
• Outdoor play
• Tidy up
• Creative activity
• Outdoor play
• Tidy up
• Creative activity
• Outdoor play
• Virtual Classroom (2 hrs)*
Off-the-job training is structured learning that takes place outside of an apprentice’s routine duties—but not off-site.
It includes activities like observations, eLearning, and reflections, all completed within the setting.
Apprentices remain actively engaged in their roles while developing essential skills, ensuring minimal disruption to staffing and daily operations.
* Storytelling observation (45 mins): observe a qualified practitioner leading a group storytelling session.
* Shadowing SENCO (45 mins): Shadows the SENCo to understand inclusive practices and how additional needs are supported in early years settings.
* Peer observation (30 mins): The apprentice observes an experienced colleague to reflect on different teaching approaches and interactions with children.
* Reflective notes (30 mins): Time is set aside for the apprentice to write brief reflections on their practice and learning, linking experience to early years frameworks.
* eLearning (1 hour):
The apprentice completes guided learning modules or workbook activities aligned with the apprenticeship standard.
* Training video + reflection (1 hour): The apprentice watches a structured training video and completes a short reflective summary on how it applies to their role.
* Weekly reflection (30 mins):
A focused session where the apprentice considers their learning progress and records evidence towards their portfolio.
* Mentor meeting (30 mins):
A one-to-one discussion with the mentor to review progress, discuss challenges and plan upcoming development targets.
to 100%
Our programmes are up to 100% funded, so there’s no financial strain on your setting. Plus, you won’t need to worry about the paperwork – our dedicated funding team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Take a look at the table below to see the funding available for your setting:
How can your setting care for more children without compromising on quality?
Little Daisies Nursery is a great example on growing capacity.
They boosted their capacity by over 75% –from 40 to 71 children by upskilling their staff and utilising apprenticeships with Best Practice Network.
We offer a wide range of courses to boost your staff:child ratios and equip your practitioners with the skills and qualifications they need to thrive.
How did they boost their capacity by over 75%?
Identified staff who wanted to progress their career and could benefit from training
• Hired two new apprentices through the Best Practice Network free recruitment services
• Supported their staff to apply for EYITT and Level 3 Apprenticeships with Best Practice Network
• Utilised Apprenticeship Levy and DfE funding to pay for the training
• 1 Unqualified
• 3 qualified at Level 2
• 6 qualified at Level 3
• 1 EYTS qualified •
Our curriculum is designed to build your skills and confidence progressively, blending theory with practical classroom experience.
• Better Staff:Child Ratios
Best Practice Network’s training programmes, directly contribute to improved staff:child ratios in early years settings, meaning you can safely care for more children.
• More Qualified, Confident Practitioners
The training programmes offered by Best Practice Network are designed to upskill staff and build professional confidence.
Don’t just take our word for it – hear directly from those who are already charting a course to success with us.
Real stories from our thriving partners
In this section, we’re sharing the real stories of nurseries, just like yours, who have partnered with us to achieve remarkable growth and cultivate dedicated teams.
See how they’ve navigated their journeys and discovered the significant benefits of joining our thriving fleet.
I’ve always had really positive feedback from our apprentices doing their training with Best Practice Network, and I found the programme really valuable when I did it myself as an apprentice.
Working with Best Practice Network has been great – they respond quickly, the apprentices get brilliant support, it’s been a really positive experience.”
Liz Fletcher, Early Years Mentor
Meet the Snapdragons team – Early Years Mentor Liz and Apprentices Emma and Alicia
They share how much they value the programme, highlighting its benefits for everyone involved, the positive impact on nursery growth and the outstanding support they’ve received from Best Practice Network.
Watch Jane’s video here
From apprentice to leader – Jane shares her journey to becoming Head of Toddlers at Snapdragons Nurseries, and how she’s now helping others follow in her footsteps as an apprentice mentor.
This apprenticeship is a funded entry-level training programme.
Early Years Practitioners work under the guidance and supervision of an early years educator, teacher or other suitably qualified professional in the early years workforce supporting the planning and delivery of the educational programmes for children in the 0–5 age range.
• Learn how to support children’s early education and development
• Become more confident in planning activities in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
• Learn how to keep up-to-date records to help track and identify children’s individual needs, abilities and progress
• Promote health, safety and child welfare through effective, informed practice and safeguarding
• Study at no cost to the learner. Funded by the Apprenticeship Levy or with a 5% employer coinvestment of £200
• Receive full support from your apprenticeship tutor with monthly visits and taught sessions
I was looked after every step of the way by Best Practice Network. The tutor visits were the standout point of the course. I can’t wait to do the L3 course in the future and keep working my way up.”
• An entry level work-based early years training programme, ideal for those wanting to enter a career as a nursery practitioner, classroom assistant or pre-school practitioner
• Suitable for either someone already working in or someone looking for a career in an early years childcare and education setting
• No age restrictions. Apprentices must have:
• Level 1 in maths and English (for 16–18 year-olds only and can be completed during the apprenticeship)
• Support from your employer and levy account holder
• Residency in the UK for the last three years
We can help you recruit apprentices! Contact us for details.
Michelle Evans Apprenticeship Performance Manager
Michelle has been working in early years since 2011 and joined Best Practice Network in 2021. She has been able to use her vast experience in the sector to support apprentices.
“The level 2 will equip early years practitioners with skills they need to succeed.”
This apprenticeship is a funded mid-tier level training programme.
Best Practice Network has developed this industry-leading programme that will deliver the knowledge base alongside the skills and behaviours an apprentice will attain in the workplace.
• Learn how to support and promote children’s early education and development
• Plan and provide effective care and learning to prepare children for school
• Learn how to use assessment to develop informed practice for individual children
• Study at no cost to the learner. Funded by the Apprenticeship Levy or with a 5% employer co-investment of £350
• Counts towards EYFS Level 3 staff:child ratios
The way the course was delivered was great. The tutor who was assigned to me supported my development and progression every step of the way and I can’t thank her enough!”
• Suitable for either someone already working in, or someone looking for a career in an early years childcare setting
• Ideal for someone looking to pursue a career as an early years educator, nursery teaching assistant, nursery nurse, supervisor, or childminder
• No age restrictions. Apprentices must have:
• GCSEs in English and maths at Grade C (4) or above, or able to achieve level 2 English and maths whilst on programme (for 16–18 years olds only)
• Award in Paediatric First Aid OR Emergency Paediatric First Aid must be achieved while on programme (if not already achieved) and must be in date when they enter gateway
• Support from your employer and levy account holder
• Residency in the UK for the last three years
We can help you recruit apprentices! Contact us for details.
of
Tracy Clement Apprenticeship Director
Tracy is passionate about apprenticeships and the opportunities they bring for new and existing staff to gain knowledge and skills in the workplace.
The Thrive Early Years Educator Apprenticeship Level 3 programme is a variation of our Early Years Educator Apprenticeship Level 3 programme that is delivered by Best Practice Network and our sister company, Thrive.
Designed for those working with children aged 0 to 5, the apprenticeship combines hands-on experience with expert training. You’ll develop the skills and knowledge needed to plan and deliver high-quality childcare and education in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
• 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
• Suitable for either someone already working in, or someone looking for a career in an early years childcare setting
• Ideal for someone looking to pursue a career as an early years educator with a particular passion facilitating social and emotional wellbeing, resilience, language, behaviour and learning in the Early Years.
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
with Apprenticeship Levy
Apprentices must meet the following criteria:
• Be working and interacting daily with children aged 0 to 5 in a setting that delivers the EYFS learning and development requirements
• GCSEs in English and maths at Grade C (4) or above or able to achieve
• Have experience in a relevant role
• Have support from your employer and levy account holder
• Be based in England
• Have held a residency in the UK for the last three years
• If aged 16–18, you’ll need to have achieved GCSEs in English and Maths at Grade C (4) or above OR be able to achieve Level 2 English and Maths Functional Skills while on programme
Learn more and apply at bestpracticenet.co.uk/ thrive-eyeapprenticeship-level3
This apprenticeship is a funded training programme for experienced practitioners caring for children from birth to 8 years.
Building on our entry level programmes and using our industry expertise to create a programme for those wanting to further their knowledge and careers.
• Be responsible for supporting the quality of learning and development in your setting
• Learn how to lead day-to-day practice at an operational level
• Be involved with sector developments in your local area and nationally
• Work in partnership with parents, carers and colleagues for each child’s development
• Study at no cost to the learner. Funded by the Apprenticeship Levy or with a 5% employer coinvestment of £400
Contact
• Suitable for someone already working in, or aspiring to work in early years childcare, with responsibility for leading other practitioners or groups
• An active practitioner looking to advance their career and be an effective role model of play-based learning, supporting others in the development of their own practice and being responsible for the quality of the learning and development in their setting
• No age restrictions. Apprentices must have:
• Level 3 Early Years Educator or equivalent qualifications/extensive experience in a leadership position
• GCSEs in English and maths at Grade C (4) or above, or able to achieve level 2 English and maths whilst on programme (for 16–18 year olds only)
• Support from your employer and levy account holder
• Residency in the UK for the last three years
Michelle Evans Apprenticeship Performance Manager
Michelle has been working in early years since 2011 and joined Best Practice Network in 2021. She has been able to use her vast experience in the sector to support apprentices.
“The level 2 will equip early years practitioners with skills they need to succeed.”
For Early Years professionals who coach others, formally or informally, and want to refine their practice.
The new Coaching in the Early Years Apprenticeship is the first ever coaching apprenticeship designed specifically for the Early Years sector. The programme is for Early Years practitioners, leaders and support staff who are already guiding others and want to build their expertise in structured, impactful coaching.
• Develop structured, high-quality coaching skills specific to Early Years
• Grow as a leader and support the development of others in their setting
• Gain the ILM Level 5 Certificate in Effective Coaching and Mentoring alongside your apprenticeship, with no extra study or cost –all tailored to Early Years settings
Coaching is a structured, professional conversation that helps individuals reflect, grow and improve their practice. Unlike training or instructing, coaching doesn’t provide all the answers – it uses skilled questioning, listening and goal-setting to help others find their own way forward.
In the Early Years, coaching is about unlocking potential. It empowers practitioners to build on their strengths, overcome challenges and take ownership of their development.
Coaching helps you listen, reflect and support real change - both for children and teams.”
Sian Marsh, Early Years Director
• For staff who coach/mentor formally or informally
Apprentices must meet the following criteria:
• Work in an educational setting
• Have held a residency in the UK for the last three years
• Have the right to work and study in the UK
Tracy Clement Apprenticeship Director
Tracy is passionate about apprenticeships and the opportunities they bring for new and existing staff to gain knowledge and skills in the workplace.
Learn more and apply at bestpracticenet.co.uk/ Coaching-inthe-Early-YearsApprenticeshipLevel-5
The Level 3 Early Years SENCO qualification is for level 3 practitioners in a private, voluntary or independent setting, or for Childminders registered with Ofsted or part of a Childminding Agency.
It is also appropriate for Ofsted-registered Childminders and Ofsted-registered Childminder agencies. This is an important role to ensure the best possible educational outcomes are achieved for children with special educational needs and disabilities.
• Learn to actively engage with children and their families using the Assess, Plan, Do, Review process
• Accredited and fully funded by the Department for Education, limited places available based on DfE eligibility criteria
• Understand what an effective support plan should include and why clear outcomes are important
• Gain the techniques to identify SEND at the earliest point
"My tutor was amazing, she gave me really good support and I am very grateful for that"
- EY SENCO Graduate
• Ideal for practitioners in a private, voluntary or independent setting
• Suitable for Ofsted registered Childminders and Childminder agencies that hold a level 3 qualification
• You must have a full and relevant Level 3 or above Early Years qualification with experience in Early Years SEND
• Alternatively, Childminders must hold a full and relevant Level 2 Early years qualification and:
- Have completed at least one Level 3 qualification module
- Have some experience in Early Years SEND
• You must have support of your employer or be an Ofsted-registered Childminder/part of a Childminding Agency
You can check to see if your qualification is full and relevant here: www.check-an-early-years-qualification. service.gov.uk
The only teacher training focused on babies and children from birth to five.
EYITT leads to Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) through a blend of comprehensive training days, hands-on placements and self-paced learning. It is designed for graduate early years practitioners who wish to care for children up to 5 and specialise in early childhood development.
• Become a qualified Early Years Teacher and lead practice of others
• Help close the attainment gap and improve children’s life chances
• Access the latest research and teaching resources
• EYITT trainees count towards staff:child ratio for children age 3 and over
• Receive an employer bonus of £7,000 to cover training-related costs
• Train for free – the programme is fully funded by the DfE I wanted to deepen my understanding of child development and make a positive and lasting impact on the children’s education experience.”
• Graduate early years practitioners who may work in a range of settings across birth to five, including nurseries, schools, home-based settings
• Graduates who want to join the early years sector
• Full-time undergraduates on early childhood studies degree programmes
Apprentices must have:
• A degree on entry (from any area of study)
• GCSE Grade C or above (or recognised equivalent) in maths, English and science.
If a candidate do not have the required GCSEs, then we can advise on completing an equivalency test instead.
year olds
Helen has specialised in early years for nearly two decades. She worked as an Early Years Teacher across a wide range of provision, including schools and children’s centres. Currently, she uses her expertise to inspire Early Years Teachers of the future.
Fully funded by the DfE
120 days of placements Full-time training Monthly training days Graduate Entry Route (GE)
Up to £5,000 bursary
Fully funded by the DfE
£7,000 employer incentive Typically 2530 day school placement or second placement Part-time training 1–2 training days a month Graduate Employmentbased Route (GEB)
You can work towards Early Years Teacher Status whilst being employed in an Early Years setting/school.
Childminders Route
Fully funded by the DfE
Employer Incentive may be available (excludes sole traders)
30 day school placement or second placement
You can work towards Early Years Teacher Status whilst being employed as a Childminder.
During induction, students are given information about the programme structure and processes involved in the assessment.
Each student is allocated a personal tutor who will work closely to monitor and assess progress and support the learning experience.
Students complete an Induction module which includes recommended reading and programme handbooks.
A key component of the induction phase is the Strengths and Needs analysis which outlines the structure for a Personal Learning and Development Plan for each student.
Students attend eight training days across the programme and then a final interview.
Training Days provide the opportunity to meet with fellow learners and experienced facilitators.
• Training Day 1: The Effective Early Years Teacher
• Training Day 2: Adapting Teaching for the Unique Child
• Training Day 3: Starting Strong
• Training Day 4: Foundations for Success
• Training Day 5: Leading and Supporting in the Early Years
• Training Day 6: Promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• Training Day 7: Unlocking Potential and Widening Opportunities
• Training Day 8: The Reflective Early Years Teacher
• Final Interview: EYTS recommendation
Assessment includes gradually building an ePortfolio, developing evidence bundles and action plans, writing assignments and maintaining observation records. (for more details please visit our website).
of our students achieve EYITT 100%
of 2024-25 students said that the support from their personal tutor was at a high standard 97%
rated the quality of online study materials and guidance materials good or very good 99% of students rated their placement experience as good or very good in 2023-24 99% of students in 2024-25 would recommend EYITT to a friend or colleague 97%
"Apprentices enjoy their studies. They find their coursework and job roles challenging and stimulating. They value greatly the care and support they receive from their tutors."
- Ofsted Report, 2023
We’re here to help you strengthen your workforce and create a lasting impact for children.
Book a call with us today. Our team can advise on eligibility, structure and funding.
Book a call
For the latest programme information, please visit: bestpracticenet.co.uk/ey
Our Early Years Advisors are here to help!
+44 (0) 117 920 9428
enquiries@bestpracticenet.co.uk
bestpracticenet.co.uk