Early Years Educator

Version 2.0 - VQA Level 3 Apprenticeship Assessment for ST0135 Early Years Educator (610/7782/3)

Apprenticeship Assessment

Version: 2.0

Duration: 18 months

Level: 3

LARS Number: 430

Reference: ST0135

Funding: £7,000

Registrations open from 1 November

An Early Years Educator is a highly trained professional who supports the learning, development, health, and wellbeing of children from birth to five years old. Working in a range of settings such as nurseries, preschools, schools, and childcare environments, they provide high-quality early education and care tailored to each child’s needs, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The role involves creating safe, inclusive learning environments, planning and delivering activities that promote development through play, observing and assessing children’s progress, and working closely with parents, carers, and other professionals to ensure the best outcomes for every child.

Entry Requirements

Learners must meet the national eligibility requirements for apprenticeship programmes and:

be aged under 25 at the start of their apprenticeship training

live in England

not be in full-time education

VQA developed these assessments with employers, training providers, and early years experts, based on sector feedback.

Assessments take place only when the employer, provider, and learner confirm readiness, including on-programme where appropriate.

Subject to centre approval, VQA offers a 50% partnership model with centre assessors. This is supported by a comprehensive guidance package for induction, standardisation, and delivery.

Assessment Details

On-site observation - 60 minutes
Option A - Remote Professional Discussion
60 Minutes
Option B - Remote OR Face-to-face Case Study
3000 Words

Whether you want us to handle everything or you’d like to share the assessment responsibilities, VQA Managed and VQA Together offer quality, confidence and rigour from beginning to end.