How do I become an EYP?

Training to become an early years professional (EYP) is open to candidates with different backgrounds and qualifications. In order to achieve EYPS you will have a degree qualification and GCSEs in English and Mathematics at grade C or above (or equivalent).  Some training providers may offer GCSE equivalence tests for those who do not have suitable qualifications.

If you are in any doubt as to whether you have reached the required level, you should contact the EYP training provider of your choice for further advice.

Depending on your previous experience, you will be eligible for either:

• The four-month part-time validation programme.
• The six-month part-time short extended professional development (EPD) pathway.
• The twelve-month full-time training pathway.

If you have an early years foundation degree (Level 5) or an equivalent qualification, you will be eligible for the long EPD pathway, which lasts 15 months and be able to top up to a full degree during the programme.

Questions:

What if I have an overseas qualification?

If you have gained a qualification abroad and are unsure about its equivalence, please contact the National Academic Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) at:

ECCTIS Ltd,
Oriel House, Oriel Road
Cheltenham
Gloucestershire, GL50 1XP
Tel: + 44 (0) 1242 260010

NARIC can only provide guidance on whether an overseas qualification is comparable in standard to a given UK qualification. It cannot determine whether a qualification is suitable for EYPS. Such decisions always remain at the discretion of EYPS training providers.

Are there any other requirements?

In order to undertake EYPS you must

• be physically and mentally fit to work as an EYP.
• not have a criminal background that might prevent you from working with children or as an EYP and you must not have been excluded from working with children.
• demonstrate that you can read effectively and are able to communicate clearly and accurately in spoken and written English.

Can I get funding?

All Early Years Professional Status training pathways are fully funded.

If you are already working in an early years setting, a supply cover will also be provided for the time you are in training.

If you are on the full-time one-year pathway will receive a bursary of £5,000.

If you are working in a setting and planning to attend the part-time pathways, your employer can get support from the local Graduate Leader Fund. You and your employer can get advice about this from your local authority.

To find out if you are eligible for funding please contact a training provider or read more about EYPS funding.

What if I'm a childminder?

CWDC recognises the importance of all home-based child carers. Childminders and nannies play a vital role in giving parents and children high quality, flexible childcare and family support.

EYPS is open to all childminders with required qualifications. You'll be glad to know that financial support and mentorship is also available during training and assessment. EYPS training providers will give you full details and advice.

Which training provider should I choose?

All training providers working with CWDC have to meet strictly monitored conditions to receive funding and to be eligible for providing preparation and assessment for EYPS. This includes systems for quality assurance and internal moderation to ensure you get high-quality preparation, training and assessment.

How do I choose a training pathway?

Your training provider will help you find the most appropriate pathway for you.

What is the assessment process?

Regardless of which pathway you choose, all candidates will go through the same assessment process:

• a one-day review of your skills.
• five written assessment tasks based on your experience of early years practice.
• a one-day assessment visit in your early years setting, including a tour of the setting, a review of the written tasks and an interview with you and some of your colleagues.

This process ensures consistency across training providers for candidates and provides an effective way of moderating the results. 

How do I apply?

You should contact your nearest training provider directly to find out about their application process. 

When should I apply?

There are a number of pathways starting at different times, mainly in January and September.

Your training provider will help to identify the right solution for you.