Level 4 The Early Years Advanced Practitioner Course. Study online, at your own pace, around your work commitments. This course is free for some learners and fees apply for others. It can be funded commercially, with payment plans available, or through an Advanced Learner Loan. You must already hold a full Level 3 early years or childcare qualification and be working in an early years setting at Level 3 practitioner level. The course typically takes 6 months and builds leadership, mentoring, and coaching skills for senior roles.
Who this course is for
The NCFE CACHE Level 4 Certificate for the Early Years Advanced Practitioner is designed for individuals aged 18 and over (or 19+ if funded via and Advanced Learner Loan) who are already employed in an early years setting and hold a full Level 3 early years or childcare qualification. This qualification is suitable for those aiming to advance their careers by developing leadership, mentoring, and coaching skills, enabling them to take on more senior roles such as Room Leader, Supervisor, or Early Years Manager.
Entry requirements
Learners must be 18 years or older and hold a full Level 3 early years or childcare qualification. Additionally, they must be employed in an early years setting at a Level 3 practitioner level to complete this work-based qualification. This qualification is designed for those seeking to develop leadership, mentoring, and coaching skills within the early years workforce.
What you will learn
You'll develop leadership skills relevant to early years settings.
You'll build mentoring and coaching techniques to support colleagues.
You'll deepen your understanding of child development at an advanced level.
You'll learn how to lead practice and drive quality improvements in your setting.
You'll explore safeguarding responsibilities at a senior practitioner level.
You'll study approaches to observation, assessment, and planning for young children.
You'll examine how to support the professional development of others in your team.
How you will learn
This is a work-based qualification, so your learning is grounded in your current role in an early years setting. You'll study online through Showcase Training's platform, working through course materials at a pace that suits you. Assessment includes written assignments and work-based evidence drawn from your practice. You must be employed in an early years setting at Level 3 practitioner level to complete the qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Showcase Training will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Room Leader - lead a room team in a nursery or early years setting.
Nursery Supervisor - oversee daily operations and support staff.
Nursery Practitioner (Senior) - take on advanced practice responsibilities.
Early Years Mentor - coach and develop less experienced colleagues.
Deputy Manager - support the nursery manager in running the setting.
Early Years SENCO - coordinate support for children with additional needs.
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People's Services - a natural next step if you're aiming for nursery management.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) - for those who want to lead learning and teaching across the early years foundation stage.
Level 6 Early Childhood Studies Degree - for deeper academic study of child development and policy, often available through universities.
