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FAQs: Early Years Teacher Training
Your First Step into Early Years Education
At Equalitas, our EYITT programme is designed for those already employed in an early years setting who want to take the next step in their careers and transform early years education. This 100% online, Dfe-funded programme leads to Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) in just one academic year.
Below, we’ve answered the most common questions about eligibility, funding, employment and training.
Eligibility & Entry Requirements
Do I need a degree to begin Early Years Teacher Training?
Yes. You must hold a UK bachelor’s degree in any subject. International degree qualifications require confirmation of equivalency, which can be obtained from ENIC.
Do I need GCSEs to enrol on EYITT?
Yes. You’ll need GCSEs (or equivalent) at Grade C/4 or above in English, Maths, and Science.
Are Level 2 qualifications accepted instead of GCSEs?
No. Level 2 qualifications are not accepted. You’ll need full GCSEs or an approved equivalency test, which Equalitas accepts where required.
Do I need to provide my original certificates?
Yes. We require certified copies of your GCSE and degree certificates. If you’ve lost them, you’ll need to request replacements or a subject access request from the relevant exam board.
Do I need a DBS check?
Yes, but if your setting already holds an up-to-date DBS on file as part of your employment checks, Equalitas does not need to reissue one.
When does the EYITT programme start?
The course runs for one academic year and starts in the autumn term.
Employment Requirements
Do I need to be employed in an early years setting?
Yes. EYITT is an employment-based route. You must be working in a setting or school with children aged 0–5.
Can I apply if I’m a Teaching Assistant?
Yes, provided you meet the academic eligibility requirements and are working in an early years role.
Can I apply if I’m a childminder?
Yes, if you are employed through a limited company or organisation. Sole traders are not eligible for funding.
Can I apply if I work part-time?
Potentially. This will be assessed during the Suitability Interview, which reviews working hours, access to training, and employer support.
Can I apply if I’m on a zero-hours or agency contract?
No. You need to have a contracted role within a setting or school.
Funding & Incentives
Do I have to pay for Early Years Teacher Training?
No. The course is fully funded by the Department for Education. In addition, your setting receives a £7,000 employer incentive, paid in instalments across the year to support your training.
Will I receive a bursary?
No. There is no trainee bursary, but your training and assessment are fully funded, and the employer incentive supports your setting.
Training & Delivery
Is the course part-time?
Yes. The Graduate Employment-Based (GEB) route is delivered part-time, alongside your existing job in an early years setting.
Is the course online or in person?
The course is delivered 100% online via Microsoft Teams and our Moodle platform. Equalitas tutors and a Key Colleague will support you in your setting.
Do I need to complete a placement elsewhere?
How much study time do I need?
DfE guidance states that trainees should work no more than 90% of a full-time role. The remaining 10% is for study and training, typically taken as a half-day per week or one full day every two weeks.
Will I have a dedicated tutor?
You will work closely with a team of EYITT Tutors throughout the year, supported by regular reviews, tutor visits, training sessions, and ongoing guidance to help you make the most of your time on the course.
How will I be assessed?
Throughout the course, you’ll upload evidence via Moodle, which your Equalitas tutor will review and assess against the Teachers’ Standards (Early Years).
What Does EYTS Qualify Me to Do?
Can I teach with EYTS in a school?
Yes – with some limitations. EYTS qualifies you to teach in:
- Private, voluntary and independent nurseries
- Reception classes in academies, free schools, and some independent schools
However, EYTS does not confer QTS, so you cannot be the lead teacher in a maintained (state) primary school reception class.
Is there a national pay scale for Early Years Teachers with EYTS?
No. Salaries are set by individual employers. EYTS is not linked to the Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document used in maintained schools.
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“Our staff are developing their understanding of SEND and EAL and supporting one another with best practice. We’ve seen a positive impact, children who used to struggle with their transition home are now leaving more calmly at the end of the nursery day.”
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to transform futures in Early Years education
—or just want to check your eligibility— our team is here to help.