Why play-based learning is crucial in early years apprenticeship curriculum

The benefits of Play-based learning in early years education

Play-based learning is a crucial aspect of the early years apprenticeship curriculum as it is the most effective way for young children to learn and develop. It allows children to explore, experiment, and create in a safe and nurturing environment, which helps to build their confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills.

Play-based learning also provides children with the opportunity to learn through hands-on experiences and to make connections between the real world and their learning. This type of learning is particularly important in the early years as it helps to lay the foundation for future learning and development.

In the early years apprenticeship curriculum, play-based learning is integrated into all areas of learning such as literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies. Apprentices learn how to create engaging and stimulating play-based learning environments that are tailored to the needs and interests of the children in their care. They also learn how to observe and document children’s play and use this information to plan and adapt their teaching.

In addition to the academic benefits, play-based learning also promotes the social and emotional development of children. It allows children to learn how to interact with others, share, take turns, and solve problems, which are essential life skills.

Overall, the importance of play-based learning in the early years apprenticeship curriculum cannot be overstated as it provides children with a holistic and meaningful learning experience. It helps them to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in school and in life.

Play-based learning and apprenticeships: A perfect match in early years education

Play-based learning is an important aspect of the apprenticeship programme at both level 2 and level 3 as well as the early years sector more widely in a number of ways:

1. Apprentices learn how to implement play-based learning in their practice: Through their apprenticeship, early years apprentices learn how to create play-based learning environments that are tailored to the needs and interests of the children in their care. They learn how to plan and deliver activities and experiences that are engaging and stimulating for children, and how to use play to support children’s learning and development.
2. Apprentices observe and document children’s play: Apprentices learn how to observe and document children’s play and use this information to plan and adapt their teaching. This helps them to understand the children’s needs and interests, and to create learning experiences that are meaningful and relevant for them.
3. Apprentices promote the social and emotional development of children: Through play-based learning, apprentices learn how to promote the social and emotional development of children. They learn how to support children to interact with others, share, take turns, and solve problems, which are essential life skills.
4. Apprentices learn how to support children’s academic development: Play-based learning is integrated into all areas of learning such as literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies. Apprentices learn how to use play to support children’s academic development in these areas.
5. Apprenticeship is a hands-on experience: The hands-on nature of apprenticeships, the apprentices are able to experience the benefits of play-based learning firsthand, and understand the value and effectiveness of this approach to teaching and learning.

Play-based learning is a key element of the Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship standard, which sets out the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that apprentices are expected to demonstrate in their work as early years practitioners.

1. Knowledge: Apprentices are expected to have a good understanding of play-based learning and its importance in the early years. They need to know how to create play-based learning environments that are safe, stimulating and appropriate for children’s needs and interests. They also need to know how to observe and document children’s play and use this information to plan and adapt their teaching.
2. Skills: Apprentices are expected to be able to create and deliver play-based learning activities that support children’s learning and development. They need to be able to use play to support children’s academic development in areas such as literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies. They also need to be able to support children’s social and emotional development through play.
3. Behaviors: Apprentices are expected to demonstrate a positive attitude towards play-based learning and its importance in the early years. They need to be able to work in partnership with colleagues, parents and carers to create a play-based learning environment that supports children’s learning and development.

Overall, play-based learning is an integral part of the Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship standard. Apprentices are expected to have a good understanding of the importance of play in the early years education, and how to use it as an effective tool to support children’s learning and development. They are also expected to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required to be successful early years practitioners.

What is the Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship?

The Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship standard is a training program that provides young people with the knowledge, skills, and behaviors they need to become early years practitioners. The standard is designed to be flexible and can be tailored to meet the needs of different employers and apprentices.

The apprenticeship typically lasts between 12 and 18 months and combines on-the-job training with classroom-based learning. Apprentices work at an early years setting, such as a nursery or preschool, and receive training and support from their employer and a training provider.

During the apprenticeship, apprentices will be expected to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and behaviors in the following areas:

1. Child Development: Apprentices will learn about child development, including physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development and the factors that influence it.
2. Play and Learning: Apprentices will learn about play-based learning, including how to create play-based learning environments that are safe, stimulating and appropriate for children’s needs and interests.
3. Safeguarding and welfare: Apprentices will learn about the policies and procedures that are in place to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
4. Communication and teamwork: Apprentices will learn about how to communicate effectively with children, parents, and colleagues, and how to work as part of a team.
5. Professionalism: Apprentices will learn about the importance of professionalism, including maintaining confidentiality and adhering to codes of conduct.

Throughout the apprenticeship, apprentices will be assessed on their knowledge, skills, and behaviors through a combination of on-the-job observation, practical assessments, and written tests. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, apprentices will be awarded the Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship certificate and they can continue their career as a qualified early years practitioner.

How Real Skills can help

We understand that managing apprenticeship programs can be a complex and challenging task for employers. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of services that can help employers navigate the apprenticeship process and ensure that their apprentices receive the training and support they need to be successful. Our services include:

• Tailored training programs: We work with employers to design training programs that meet the specific needs of their apprentices and their business.
• Experienced trainers: Our trainers are experts in their field and have a wealth of experience in delivering high-quality training.
• On-the-job support: We provide on-the-job support to apprentices, ensuring that they have the necessary guidance and support to excel in their roles.
• Compliance support: We assist employers in meeting their legal and compliance requirements, ensuring that their apprenticeship programs are fully compliant with relevant regulations.
• Apprenticeship management: We provide support in managing the apprenticeship process, including tracking progress, providing feedback, and managing end-point assessments.
• Employer engagement: We maintain regular communication with employers, providing them with updates on their apprentices’ progress and addressing any concerns they may have.

Our goal is to make the apprenticeship process as smooth and stress-free as possible for employers, allowing them to focus on their core business operations. With our support, employers can be confident that their apprentices are receiving the training and support they need to be successful in their roles.