How to Become an Early Years Teacher in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide
The UK offers a structured pathway for those who aspire to become Early Years Teachers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to foster positive learning environments for young children. Here’s a guide to understanding what it takes to embark on this rewarding career.
1. Understand the Role 
Early Years Teachers work with children in nurseries, preschools, and reception classes, focusing on key developmental areas such as language, social skills, and emotional well-being. Their work includes planning and delivering activities aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which emphasizes holistic child development, including social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. EYTs also assess children’s progress and work closely with families to support each child’s individual needs.
2. Meet the Educational Requirements 
To become an Early Years Teacher in the UK, you generally need:
- A minimum of GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science at grade C/4 or above.
- A degree in any subject (although degrees in early childhood studies, education, or child psychology are advantageous).
If you haven’t yet earned a degree and are certain you want to work with young children, consider a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Early Childhood Education or a degree in Early Childhood Studies.
3. Choose a Pathway to Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) 
There are several routes to achieving Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) in the UK, depending on your current level of education and work experience. These routes are typically accredited by Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT) providers.
Graduate Entry Pathway (Full-Time)
- Designed for recent graduates without extensive work experience.
- A one-year, full-time course that includes practical placements.
- Often funded by the government, covering tuition fees and offering a bursary to help with living costs.
Graduate Employment-Based Pathway (Part-Time)
- Aimed at those already working in an early years setting.
- A one-year, part-time course that allows you to continue working while gaining EYTS.
- Government funding may be available to cover course fees.
Undergraduate Pathway
- For those pursuing an early childhood-related degree.
- Typically integrated into the degree program, allowing you to earn EYTS upon graduation.
Assessment Only Route
- Suitable for experienced early years practitioners without formal teaching qualifications.
- Candidates are assessed based on their experience and practical skills.
- Generally a shorter, assessment-based route without additional training.
4. Complete Initial Teacher Training (ITT) in Early Years 
Whichever pathway you choose, you’ll need to complete an Initial Teacher Training (ITT) program with a focus on early years education. During ITT, you’ll gain practical experience, often through placements in early years settings, where you’ll apply teaching theories and techniques directly in the classroom under the guidance of mentors. This hands-on experience is invaluable for building the skills necessary to manage a classroom, plan engaging activities, and effectively support young children’s development.
5. Obtain Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) 
Upon successful completion of your training and meeting the required standards, you will be awarded Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS). While EYTS is different from Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), it is a recognised qualification specifically for teaching children from birth to five years old in the UK. EYTS-qualified professionals are highly valued in early years settings and are trained to meet the unique needs of this age group.
6. Pursue Continuing Professional Development (CPD) 
The field of early childhood education is continually evolving, with new research, methodologies, and educational resources emerging. Staying up to date on these developments is essential for career growth and effectiveness in the classroom. Many organisations, such as the Early Years Alliance and National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA), offer workshops, certifications, and resources for ongoing professional development.
Career Prospects and Opportunities
With EYTS, you can work in nurseries, preschools, and reception classes, helping young children get a positive start in their educational journey. There may also be opportunities to specialise in areas such as Special Educational Needs (SEN), child psychology, or early childhood curriculum development. For those interested in leadership, EYTS can lead to roles as a nursery manager, early years consultant, or training provider for future EYTs.
For more information, please refer to the guidance from the UK government page.