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A financial barrier to developing the next generation of Early Years professional has been removed. As of the 1st of August 2026, eligible apprentice training for 16-24-year-olds is fully funded through government funding. This gives Early Years employers an even greater opportunity to recruit new apprentices, develop existing employees and build the skills workforce their settings needs for the future.
What does the funding change mean for Early Years Employers?
For eligible apprentices aged between 16 and 24, the government will fund 100% of their apprenticeship training costs.
This can help settings invest in their teams without the usual employer contribution towards training. Whether you are welcome someone new to the sector or developing an existing employee, an apprenticeship provides a structured way to build knowledge, skills and behaviours they need to succeed.
Eligible apprentices aged 25 and over can still receive 95% government funding, ensuring settings can continue to develop employees at different ages and stages of their careers.
Funding is subject to eligibility, and our apprenticeship team can help you understand what support is available for your setting.
Early Years apprenticeships available through WMC Training
We provide specialist apprenticeship programmes for new recruits, experienced practitioners and aspiring Early Years leaders.
Early Years Practitioner – Level 2
The Early Years Practitioner – Level 2 Apprenticeship is an ideal starting point for someone beginning their career in the Early Years Sector.
Our programme designed with nursery life in mind helps apprentices develop essential knowledge and practical skills across area including safeguarding, child development, communication, daily routines, equality and diversity, and promoting play.
Early Years Educator – Level 3
The Early Years Educator – Level 3 Apprenticeship supports learners to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required to become capable Early Years Educators.
Covering areas such as child development, the Early Years Foundation Stage, safeguarding, inclusive practice and supporting children’s learning, the programme can be used to develop existing team members or support new employees entering the sector.
Early Years Lead Practitioner – Level 5
The Early Years Lead Practitioner – Level 5 Apprenticeship is designed for experienced practitioners who are ready to deepen their expertise and take greater responsibility within their setting.
It supports the development of advanced practice, leadership skills and a stronger understanding of how high-quality Early Years provision can be implemented consistently across a team.
More than a qualification
Apprenticeships are not limited to recruiting school leavers or brining new people into the sector. They also provide a valuable development pathway for existing employees.
Settings can use apprenticeship training to:
- Support new employees as they begin their Early Years careers
- Develop the skills and confidence of existing practitioners
- Create clear progression opportunities
- Prepare experienced team members for greater responsibility
- Strengthen quality of and consistency across your setting
- Build a sustainable pipeline of future Early Years leaders.
At WMC Training, our programmes are designed to fit around the realities of nursery life. Learners receive structured support from specialist tutors, helping them apply their learning directly within the workplace.
Looking to recruit a new apprentice?
We offer a free apprentice recruitment service to early years employers.
Our recruitment team can help you promote your opportunity, connect with suitable candidates and support the process of welcoming a new apprentice into your setting.
Start developing your Early Years team
The latest funding changes create a valuable opportunity to invest in your workforce, strengthen your setting and support more people to build rewarding careers in Early Years.
Whether you are recruitment a new apprentice, developing an existing practitioner or preparing a future leader, our apprenticeship team can help you identify the right programme and guide you through the onboarding process.
