Free Level 4 The Early Years Advanced Practitioner Course. Study online. You study at your own pace, fitting the course around your working life in an early years setting. You must hold a full Level 3 Early Years or Childcare qualification and be employed in an early years setting to enrol. The course builds leadership and specialist skills, covering areas such as SENCO responsibilities and physical activity and nutrition coordination. It typically takes 12 months to complete. The early years advanced practitioner qualification is awarded by NCFE.
Who this course is for
The Level 4 Certificate for the Early Years Advanced Practitioner is suitable for learners aged 18 and over who are currently working as a Level 3 Early Years practitioner. It is ideal for those looking to develop leadership and specialist skills or progress into roles such as SENCO or Physical Activity and Nutrition Coordinator within an early years setting.
Entry requirements
Learners must be aged 18 or over and hold a full Level 3 Early Years or Childcare qualification. As this is a work-based qualification, learners must also be employed in an early years setting to demonstrate the practical knowledge and skills required.
What you will learn
You'll develop leadership skills for use within an early years setting.
You'll build specialist knowledge to support children with additional needs, including SENCO responsibilities.
You'll learn how to promote physical activity and healthy nutrition for young children.
You'll deepen your understanding of child development at an advanced level.
You'll strengthen your ability to mentor and support other practitioners in your setting.
You'll apply specialist knowledge to improve practice and outcomes for children.
How you will learn
This is a work-based qualification. You'll demonstrate your skills and knowledge through evidence gathered in your workplace. Assessment includes written assignments, reflective accounts, and a portfolio of evidence drawn from your day-to-day practice in an early years setting. All study and submission is completed online, so you can work through the course at a pace that suits your job and personal commitments.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Professional Training Solutions will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery room leader: lead a room and support your team day to day.
SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator): coordinate support for children with additional needs.
Physical Activity and Nutrition Coordinator: lead health and wellbeing programmes in your setting.
Early years deputy manager: support the manager and oversee daily operations.
Early years mentor: guide and develop junior practitioners in your setting.
Forest school or specialist practitioner: deliver specialist programmes within an early years environment.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree in Early Years: a higher education route that builds on Level 4 study and can lead to a full BA.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People's Services: develops senior leadership skills for those moving into management.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for practitioners aiming to lead learning and development across the early years age range.
