At Acorn Training, we are passionate about helping early years settings develop skilled, qualified practitioners who can make a real difference to children’s learning, development, and wellbeing.
We’re delighted to be able to offer the Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification through the Free Courses for Jobs (FCFJ) programme in selected regions, including South Yorkshire and Greater Lincolnshire, subject to eligibility and funding availability.
A Flexible Route to Becoming a Qualified Early Years Practitioner
Our Level 3 Early Years Educator programme is a full and relevant qualification designed for those working in, or looking to progress within, the early years sector.
The programme is delivered over approximately 10 months and includes:
- Fortnightly teaching sessions led by experienced tutors
- Flexible one-to-one support sessions tailored to individual needs
- Face-to-face coaching and mentoring
- Observation of practice within the workplace
- Ongoing guidance to help learners balance study with their professional responsibilities
This flexible approach allows learners to develop their knowledge, skills, and behaviours while continuing to work and contribute to their setting.
Supporting Employers to Grow Their Own Talent
One employer recently shared the impact the programme has had on both their staff member and their nursery provision:
“I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for providing our staff member with such a comprehensive and relevant Level 3 Early Years course, which has fitted exceptionally well around her full-time role within our school-based early years nursery.
Throughout the course, she has developed her knowledge and understanding of child development and the early years curriculum, enabling her to apply her learning confidently to her everyday practice. The support provided by Acorn has been invaluable and has enabled her to successfully complete the course in a relatively short period of time, which has suited both her and us as a school.
This training has allowed us to further develop one of our experienced members of staff into a qualified Early Years Practitioner, strengthening the skills and expertise within our nursery team.
Without the support and flexibility provided by Acorn, this would not have been possible. We are extremely grateful for the opportunity and for the excellent support she has received throughout her course.
Thank you once again for helping us to invest in and develop our staff.”
Learner Feedback
“I started the Level course in August 2026 and have found the course and contents to be exactly what I needed to help me understand and navigate the different aspects of Early Years.
Bud is easy to use and the induction process made me feel supported from the start.
The course gives some structure to a vast subject and I really enjoy our workshop sessions.
Leanne, my tutor, is supportive and knowledgeable which makes me confident that I can ask anything and share information. We have a great rapport and I know I could reach out to Leanne and ask for help if needed. We also have fun conversations and that has made me feel very confident and engaged on the course.
Acorn training has given me direction, made me curious to learn more and I would not hesitate to continue my learning journey in Early Years and beyond with them”
Why Choose Acorn Training?
We understand the challenges faced by early years settings when supporting staff development. That’s why our delivery model is designed to be flexible, supportive, and focused on achieving positive outcomes for both learners and employers.
By investing in workforce development, settings can:
- Build a highly skilled and qualified team
- Improve outcomes for children and families
- Enhance staff confidence and professional practice
- Support retention and career progression
- Meet qualification requirements within the sector
Limited Funded Places Available
Funding through the Free Courses for Jobs programme is limited and available in selected regions, including South Yorkshire and Greater Lincolnshire.
If you are an employer looking to develop your workforce, or an individual interested in becoming a qualified Early Years Practitioner, we’d love to hear from you. Contact Acorn Training today to find out whether you are eligible and secure one of our available funded places.
Email: info@acorntraining.co.uk
