An exciting next step in your Early Years leadership journey
Congratulations on being invited to apply for the Early Years Senior Leader Apprenticeship. Below you’ll find everything you need to know about the programme and how to take your next step.
Master’s-level training for experienced Early Years leaders
The Early Years Senior Leader Apprenticeship (EYSLA) is a fully funded, work-based programme designed for experienced practitioners ready to lead at a strategic level. The programme is delivered at Level 7.
This is the first and only intake of this ground-breaking qualification. Apply by the Early Bird deadline of October 26 for the best chance of securing a spot. The intake deadline will be November 9.
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Why apply for the EYSLA?
- Delivered at master’s level: Gain advanced leadership knowledge and the option to fast-track to a full MA in Educational Leadership once you’ve completed the apprenticeship.
- No degree required: You only need a Level 4 qualification and two years’ experience in an Early Years leadership role.
- Fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy: Valued at £14,000, this programme is free for Apprenticeship Levy paying settings, or just £700 for non-Levy payers (spread over 14 months).
- Designed for senior Early Years professionals: Ideal for nursery managers, area managers, directors and other leaders stepping into strategic responsibility.
What you'll learn
The EYSLA develops the advanced leadership knowledge and skills needed to lead high-quality, inclusive Early Years provision. You’ll explore:
- Developing people and teams – coaching, mentoring and supporting professional growth across your workforce
- Leading quality improvement – identifying priorities and driving sustainable improvements in practice and provision
- Strategic leadership and organisational management – building vision, culture and systems that support children, families and staff
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How you'll learn
- Induction – online learning webinars and orientation activities to introduce the programme
- Online classes – live, interactive sessions with experienced Early Years leaders
- 1:1 coaching – regular coaching and reviews with your personal tutor
- Online learning – flexible, evidence-based study completed around your work
- Assessment – a real-world business proposal and professional discussion
Your qualification and progression
The Level 7 programme is delivered at master’s level, giving you a full Level 7 leadership qualification PLUS 120 master’s credits recognised by the University of Chester.
Graduates can choose to go on to complete an optional 60-credit dissertation module for £3,000 to achieve a full MA in Educational Leadership.
Achieving these Level 7 qualifications can open doors into senior leadership and consultancy roles in Early Years.
Expert guidance throughout
You’ll be supported by our team of Early Years specialists, including experienced tutors and assessors who bring decades of sector experience to their coaching and teaching.
OPTIONAL: Master's Fast-Track
The Early Years Senior Leader Apprenticeship is already taught at master’s level, and this is formally recognised by the University of Chester. That means your hard work on the apprenticeship doesn’t just stand alone — it also counts directly towards a full master’s degree.
By completing the apprenticeship you will earn 120 master’s-level credits. You can then choose to finish a final 60-credit dissertation module online, supported every step of the way by University of Chester tutors. The cost is just £3,210 — a fraction of the usual £10,000+ master’s fee.
No degree? No problem.
- You do not need a bachelor’s degree to take this route
- If you are eligible to start a Level 7 apprenticeship, you are automatically eligible for the master’s fast track
- Your professional experience in Early Years leadership is recognised and valued by the university and by Best Practice Network
Worried about completing a master's? You won't be on your own.
The University of Chester has supported hundreds of Early Years practitioners — including SENCOs, nursery managers, business managers and teachers — to complete their master’s successfully.
The support is extensive and personal:
- Dissertation supervisor: 1:1 guidance throughout your project
- Personal tutor: Support with any concerns, worries, or practical issues beyond the dissertation
- Study Skills & Library Services Teams: Webinars and 1:1 support
- Help with structuring assignments, paragraphs and referencing
- Bookable sessions on referencing and digital resource use
- Pre-set and tailored sessions designed around your needs.
Why it works for Early Years leaders:
As the apprenticeship already covers the majority of the master’s learning, very little extra study is required. The dissertation simply builds on the leadership work you’ve already done. This makes it a straightforward, affordable and realistic route to a full master’s degree — even if you’ve never studied at this level before.
By completing the fast track, you’ll graduate with a Master’s in Educational Leadership that cements your professional credibility and opens the door to senior leadership or consultancy roles in Early Years.