Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner
Your Path to Leadership in Early Years Education
Take the lead in early years education — inspire others, shape practice, and drive high-quality learning and development across early years settings.
The Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner qualification is designed for experienced early years professionals ready to progress into leadership and management roles.
You’ll learn how to lead day-to-day practice within early years settings, coach and mentor colleagues, and ensure high standards of care and education. This advanced qualification focuses on professional leadership, reflective practice, and effective team management within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
You’ll learn how to:
Lead and inspire a team of practitioners to deliver exceptional early years provision
Promote inclusive, child-centred learning across all areas of development
Coach and mentor colleagues to improve practice and outcomes
Monitor quality and ensure compliance with EYFS and Ofsted standards
Develop policies, planning, and strategies to enhance learning environments
Level:
5 Apprenticeship Standard
Typical Duration:
24 months (plus 3-month EPA)
Assessment:
Observation, professional discussion & portfolio
Study Mode:
Work-based learning
Supervision:
Lead and support other practitioners
Minimum Age:
16+
Who Is It For?
This qualification is perfect for:
Experienced early years practitioners, supervisors, or room leaders
Individuals looking to move into management or lead practitioner roles
Professionals responsible for mentoring others or leading on aspects such as planning, assessment, or safeguarding
Course Content
You’ll complete a range of units focused on leadership, pedagogy, and professional development.
Core Learning Areas:
Leading Practice in Early Years Settings
Promoting Children’s Learning, Development, and Wellbeing
Professional Reflective Practice and Continuous Improvement
Coaching, Mentoring, and Supporting Others
Effective Communication and Team Leadership
Safeguarding, Inclusion, and Child Protection
Working with Parents, Carers, and External Agencies
How You’ll Be Assessed
You’ll build a portfolio of evidence throughout your apprenticeship and complete an End-Point Assessment (EPA) to demonstrate your professional competence.
Observation with questions (minimum 2 hours)
Professional discussion (90 minutes) underpinned by your portfolio
Gateway requirements: English and Maths at Level 2 and a completed portfolio of evidence
Final grades available: Pass, Merit, or Distinction.
Progression & Careers
After qualifying, you can work as:
After qualifying, you can work as:
Lead Practitioner or Room Leader
Deputy or Assistant Nursery Manager
Early Years Coordinator or Curriculum Lead
Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Lead
Progression routes include:
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Children and Young People’s Services
Foundation Degree or BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies
Specialist Early Years Leadership or SENCo qualifications
Entry Requirements
Learners must hold a Level 3 Early Years Educator or equivalent qualification
Aged 16 or over
Must be working in, or have access to, an early years environment
English and Maths at Level 2 (or achieved before completion)
Enhanced DBS check required
Why Choose Accacia Training?
Industry-leading tutors with years of early years management experience
Practical, work-based approach designed around your current role
Personalised support to help you progress into leadership
Develop real-world management, mentoring, and compliance skills
Nationally recognised qualification aligned to EYFS and Ofsted standards
Support Hub
Do I need to be working in a nursery to take this qualification?
Yes — you must be employed in an early years role to apply your learning in practice.
Will this qualification allow me to manage a setting?
Yes — it provides the skills and knowledge needed for senior and leadership positions in early years.
How is the qualification assessed?
Through an observation, professional discussion, and portfolio-based evidence.
Can I progress to higher education after completing Level 5?
Yes — you can progress to a Foundation Degree or BA in Early Childhood Studies.
How long does the course take?
Typically 24 months, plus an End-Point Assessment period of around 3 months.
