Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT)
At a glance
Qualification
Early Years
Teacher Status
Typical duration
12 months
Training method
Face-to-face & online training + placements
Funding
Fully funded by the DfE
DELIVERY
Delivered by Best
Practice Network
What is Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT)?
Best Practice Network’s Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT) is a 12-month, government-funded programme that leads to Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) – a nationally recognised qualification for teaching and leading early education from birth to age five.
The programme builds on your existing knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), helping you make meaningful connections across different phases of education. Throughout the training, you'll develop subject knowledge, professional skills and the behaviours required to become an Early Years Teacher.
This programme is ideal if you're already employed in an early years setting and want to develop your practice and career, or you're a childminder seeking formal recognition and expanded leadership skills through EYTS.
Childminder route
The EYITT childminder route offers a flexible, fully funded way to achieve Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) while continuing to run your business. It helps you strengthen teaching practice, deepen your early learning knowledge and grow your leadership skills.
With EYTS, you can deliver high-quality education, gain national recognition and lead improvements in early years practice.
You’ll receive tailored support throughout, including pre-interview guidance, personalised planning, dedicated childminder sessions and regular tutor support from someone who understands home-based settings.
Programme delivery
Training is delivered through a blended approach, allowing you to train alongside your current role.
The programme includes:
- A series of eight structured training days, delivered virtually or face-to-face.
- Self-paced online learning to support and extend your understanding between sessions.
- A placement in another early years setting, giving you experience across different age groups.
- Ongoing support through enhancement webinars, a personal tutor and workplace mentoring.
- Assessment through the gradual development of an ePortfolio, reflective evidence and observations, leading to a final recommendation for Early Years Teacher Status.
What you'll learn
The programme is designed to build on your existing experience of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), helping you to deepen your subject knowledge, strengthen professional skills and develop the behaviours expected on an Early Years Teacher.
Training day themes include:
- The Effective Early Years Teacher
- Adapting Teaching for the Unique Child
- Starting Strong
- Foundations for Success
- Leading and Supporting in the Early Years
- Promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
- Unlocking Potential and Widening Opportunities
- The Reflective Early Years Teacher
Please note: This programme is delivered by Thrive’s sister company, Best Practice Network. While the training does not include Thrive content, we highly recommend the training for early years practitioners and childminders looking to grow professionally.
100% of Best Practice Network's trainees go on to achieve Early Years Teacher Status
Apply nowEntry requirements
- GCSE Grade C/4 or above (or recognised equivalent) in English, maths, and science. Equivalency exams are accepted if you do not have GCSEs.
- Bachelor's degree in any area of study.
- Right to study and work in the UK.
- Competence in spoken and written English.
Why choose EYITT?
- Fully funded by the Department for Education – no cost to trainees or employers.
- Earn Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) in around 12 months.
- there are employer incentives available.
- Develop skills in practice, leadership and early years pedagogy.
Equivalency Tests for EYITT
Best Practice Network have partnered with A Star Equivalency to help you meet the entry requirements for EYITT — with exclusive discounts, free courses and even free tests for BPN applicants.
What You’ll Get:
- £26 off any single test
- Free course access (worth £199) when you book all three tests + exams
- Free English or biology test for applicants who apply and accept an offer with BPN*
- Free maths Equivalency Test for all applicants
*Subject to eligibility and limited places
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What Are GCSE Equivalency Tests?
Check eligibility & apply today
Congratulations! You appear to be eligible to apply. Please click the link below to begin your application
During the application process, you’ll need to provide evidence of your eligibility, so please ensure you have this ready.
Click below to start your application.
Unfortunately, you do not appear to be eligible for this EYITT route.
Question 2: Are you currently employed in an early years setting, or work as a childminder in England?
Frequently asked questions
- GCSE Grade C/4 or above (or recognised equivalent) in English, maths, and science. Equivalency exams are accepted if you do not have GCSEs.
- A bachelor's degree in any area of study.
- The right to study and work in the UK.
- Competence in spoken and written English.
Typically around 12 months, integrated with your current employment.