News

Providers want clarity on role of apprenticeship plan

Early years training providers say they are unclear about the Government's long-term strategy for improving the quality of the early years workforce, following the announcement this week of 2 million in bursaries for early years apprentices.

Up to 1,000 early years apprentices will be able to apply for bursaries in a new Government scheme launching in September.

The scheme is intended to support the roll-out of nursery places for disadvantaged two-year-olds. To be eligible for the funding, apprentices must be taken on in an early years setting that will be providing the two-year-old places.

But applicants will need to be enrolled on the Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Children and Young People's Workforce to be eligible, which has been previously criticised for lacking rigour, particularly around working with two-year-olds.

The Apprenticeship Bursary scheme will be a transitional scheme ahead of the Early Years Educator qualifications in 2014.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here