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Publication of Early Years Teacher Degree Apprenticeship (EYTDA) Employer Guidance

Following the publication of the Early Years Teacher Degree Apprenticeship Training Provider Guidance in April 2025, the Department for Education is pleased to announce the publication of the EYTDA Employer Guidance. Developed in collaboration with a sector-led Implementation group, this guidance aims to support employers in the early years sector to provide the EYTDA and support trainees to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to achieve Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS).

Apprenticeship Availability

Training providers are expected to begin delivering EYTDA apprenticeships from September 2026, although some may be ready sooner. Employers are encouraged to look out for training providers beginning to promote their courses from late summer 2025 and check Find apprenticeship training if you're an employer - GOV.UK

What the Guidance Covers:

The Employer Guidance sets out the key considerations and recommended practices for the EYTDA, including:

  • Funding Information
  • Programme Structure
  • Safeguarding
  • Mentoring and Support
  • End-Point Assessment
  • Entry Criteria and Recognition of Prior Learning
  • Graduate Outcomes

Who Should Read This Guidance?

The guidance is suggested reading for all stakeholders involved in the EYTDA program:

  • Early years employers: To understand the requirements and best practices for implementing the EYTDA in their settings.
  • Training providers: To help ensure the delivery of high-quality EYTDA courses.
  • EYTDA mentors: To help understand their role in being an effective mentor and support for trainees.

Access and Updates:

The full EYTDA Employer Guidance document is available on the GOV.UK page. We encourage all employers in the early years sector to review this document to ensure they are fully informed about the EYTDA programme and its requirements.

The Department for Education has also updated the EYTDA Training Provider Guidance to reflect changes to the apprenticeship funding rules which will come into effect from 1 August 2025. These updates ensure the guidance remains aligned with current government policy and funding arrangements. The latest version of the Training Provider Guidance is available on the GOV.UK page

For any queries regarding the EYTDA Employer Guidance, Contact the Department for Education - Your question - GOV.UK

The DfE also plans to host a webinar for prospective trainees in Autumn 2025, with further details to follow.

To receive periodic updates about the EYTDA delivery, register your interest at: EYTDA.ENQUIRIES@education.gov.uk