Level 5 Early Years Senior Practitioner Course. Work-based training at your workplace. This qualification is designed for people already working in the early years sector who want to develop leadership, management, and practice skills. Funding may be available depending on your circumstances. You'll build knowledge of early years practice alongside the skills to lead and support a team. The course covers leadership and management in early years settings, making it a strong step for those moving into senior roles.
Who this course is for
This qualification is designed to support the development of leadership and management skills in early years and the knowledge and skills relating to early years practice. This qualification is suitable for learners already working in the early years sect
What you will learn
You'll develop leadership and management skills relevant to early years settings.
You'll deepen your knowledge of early years practice and child development.
You'll learn how to support and supervise other practitioners in your team.
You'll understand how to assess and improve the quality of early years provision.
You'll explore safeguarding responsibilities at a senior level.
You'll build skills in working with parents, carers, and other professionals.
How you will learn
You'll learn through your day-to-day work in an early years setting. Assessment is work-based, drawing on your practice and professional role. You'll build a portfolio of evidence from your workplace activity. A tutor or assessor will visit or contact you regularly to review your progress and plan your next steps.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. ACL Essex will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery Practitioner. Senior role in a nursery or early years setting.
Room Leader. Leading a room and supporting junior staff.
Deputy Manager. Supporting the nursery manager with day-to-day operations.
Early Years SENCO. Coordinating support for children with additional needs.
Childminder. Running your own registered childcare provision.
Family Support Worker. Working with families in community or statutory settings.
What you could study next
Early Childhood Studies Degree. A natural next step if you want to move into graduate-level roles or management.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care. Broadens your leadership skills across care settings.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS). For those who want to lead practice and teaching in early years, EYTS is the recognised graduate-level route into that role.
