An Early Years Educator works with children from birth to the age of five, supporting their learning, development and wellbeing. The role is based in settings such as nurseries, preschools, and reception classes. Early Years Educators plan and deliver activities that encourage children to explore, learn and play, following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. They also observe and assess children's progress, work closely with parents and carers, and ensure that children are safe and cared for. This career requires patience, creativity, and a genuine passion for helping young children develop essential skills.
The average salary for an Early Years Educator in the UK ranges from £18,000 to £25,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There are approximately 350,000 people employed in early years and childcare roles across the UK.
The demand for Early Years Educators is expected to grow by around 5 percent by 2027, reflecting the government's focus on early childhood development.
Works with young children in a nursery setting, supporting their learning, play, and development through planned activities.
Leads a team within a preschool room, organising daily routines and educational activities for children aged three to five.
Supports young children with special educational needs and disabilities, helping them to access play and learning opportunities.
Achieve at least GCSEs in English and Maths, usually at grade 4 or above.
Most employers and training providers will expect you to have at least GCSEs in English and Maths, as these subjects are essential for communicating and supporting young children with their early learning. If you do not achieve these grades, you may be able to retake them or study Functional Skills as an alternative.
Study for a recognised childcare qualification, such as a Level 2 Certificate or Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education or Childcare.
A Level 2 qualification prepares you for an assistant role, while Level 3 qualifies you to be a fully-fledged Early Years Educator. These courses typically involve both classroom study and practical placements in nurseries or early years settings. Some apprenticeships combine working and study, allowing you to earn while you learn.
Gain hands-on experience working with young children in a nursery or pre-school setting.
Placements are usually included as part of your qualification. Alternatively, you can apply for an apprenticeship, which allows you to work and earn a wage while training. Practical experience is crucial for developing the skills and confidence needed to support young children's learning and development.
Volunteer at local nurseries, playgroups, or community centres to build your experience and confidence.
Volunteering helps you build your CV and gain valuable references. It can also give you a clearer idea of whether a career in early years education is right for you. Many nurseries welcome volunteers and it’s a good way to make connections in the sector.
Apply for jobs in nurseries, pre-schools, or reception classes in primary schools.
Look for vacancies online, in local authority job listings, or by contacting settings directly. Employers will expect you to have the right qualifications and some practical experience. Be prepared to demonstrate your understanding of child development and safeguarding in interviews.
Continue your professional development by attending training courses and keeping up to date with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
Ongoing training is essential for staying up to date with best practice and for career progression. You might specialise in areas such as special educational needs or progress to supervisory or managerial roles with further experience and qualifications.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Early Years Educator. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
An Early Years Educator and a Nursery worker both focus on providing education and care to young children in early childhood settings. They typically work with similar age groups and require qualified skills to support children's development in their formative years.
You can get into this job through:
You can take a college course before looking for work in a nursery.
Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply to do an Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, or an Early Years Educator Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
These take between 1 and 2 years to complete and combine training on the job and time spent with a learning provider.
Find out more about early years apprenticeships.
You'll usually need:
You can work as a nursery assistant and learn on the job. You'll usually need GCSEs in maths and English to start. Your employer may offer you the opportunity to do formal training like an apprenticeship, as your skills develop.
You can get experience by volunteering at a local nursery group or after school club. This may lead into paid work, where you could do training on the job.
You can apply directly for jobs in a nursery if you've got experience of working with young children and a qualification in childcare.
A paediatric first aid certificate will be useful but is not essential.
You can find out more about working in childcare from Early Years Careers and the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY).
You can contact Early Years Careers by phone or email to get answers to questions about starting a career in early years education.
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