In an attempt to raise the standards of the early years workforce, ministers intend to make GCSE English and Maths at Grade C an entry requirement for starting an early years apprenticeship at Level 3.
But sector representatives are ‘deeply concerned’ that rather than raising standards it could lead to a mass exodus of students and fewer staff qualified at Level 3, forcing settings to take on more Level 2 staff.
Earlier this year, the DfE confirmed that from 1 August 2014 students receiving Government funding to undertake the Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification will require GCSE English and maths at grade C or above on entry. Functional skills will not be accepted as equivalent to GCSEs.
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