Why We Need to Back the Next Generation of Early Years Educators

Last week, I had the privilege of celebrating the graduation of another cohort of LEYF degree students, apprentices and staff achieving professional diplomas. Watching them walk across the stage at the beautiful Drapers Hall reminded me why I remain such a passionate advocate for qualifications and apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships Offer More Than Qualifications

At a time when Alan Milburn’s recent review warns that more than one million young people are now not in education, employment or training (NEET), the highest level for over a decade, every apprenticeship represents far more than a qualification. It represents opportunity, belonging and hope.

For many young people, the route into work is becoming increasingly complex. Schools still tend to prioritise academic pathways, vocational routes are too often treated as second best, and the transition from education into meaningful employment can feel fragmented.

While the Government is investing in apprenticeships, technical education, T Levels, Skills England and a new Youth Guarantee, many employers still hesitate to offer placements or create supportive entry routes into work.

Yet apprenticeships can work.

Practice-based learning is powerful because it combines knowledge, experience and relationships. It allows learners to develop confidence while becoming part of a professional community. They learn not only what to do, but why it matters.

However, you can only be as good as those who train you and that is proving increasingly disappointing. Hence, alongside apprentices, we need to educate our staff to degree level. In fact, the most beautiful route, which we see at LEYF, is to begin as an apprentice and then go on to do the degree at work.

Why Learning While Working Improves Quality

When you have staff working and training, the emphasis on quality is enhanced because they ask questions, they notice inconsistencies and they challenge assumptions.

They often spot where curriculum approaches are not being applied as consistently as we think, or where our intentions have become disconnected from practice. Their curiosity keeps us honest. Their questions help us improve and, in doing so, they are active contributors to organisational learning.

They also remind us that talent is widely distributed, but opportunity is not.

Creating More Pathways Into Early Years Careers

Many of today’s graduates may not have followed a traditional academic route. Some may never have imagined themselves as professionals. Yet here they are, qualified Early Years educators, making a profound difference to children’s lives.

The Early Years sector desperately needs more people. But we do not simply need more staff. We need more pathways. More opportunities. More employers willing to invest time, coaching and patience into developing the next generation.

If we are serious about tackling the NEET crisis, improving social mobility and building a skilled workforce, then apprenticeships must be part of the solution.

As Milburn argues, young people do not lack aspiration. Too often they lack opportunity and support.

A Workforce Strategy for the Future

My call to action is simple: we need a workforce strategy that enables us to invest in high-quality apprenticeships and create clear, joined-up employment pathways.

Learn more about LEYF Apprenticeships

FAQs

Why are Early Years apprenticeships important?

Early Years apprenticeships help young people gain qualifications, practical experience and long-term career opportunities while supporting the growing childcare workforce.

What is the NEET crisis in the UK?

NEET refers to young people who are not in education, employment or training. Recent reports show more than one million young people in the UK now fall into this category.

How do apprenticeships support social mobility?

Apprenticeships create accessible pathways into professional careers by combining paid work, learning and mentoring opportunities.

Why does the Early Years sector need more educators?

The Early Years sector faces ongoing recruitment and retention challenges, increasing demand for skilled educators and stronger workforce development strategies.

What are the benefits of practice-based learning?

Practice-based learning combines theory with real-world experience, helping learners build confidence, professional skills and deeper understanding.

Learn more about LEYF Careers