Qualifications improve your chances; they do not gate the job. Level 3 is the most recognised.
Level 3 most recognisedOpen entry
Your route in
Employers typically expect around L2
1
Qualifications employers recognise (Level 3)
Any of these strengthens your application.
2
Where this can take you
A Level 2 Early Years Practitioner works in a room under supervision; leading a room requires the full and relevant Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification.