Early Years Speech & Language Support Practitioner

The Early Years Speech & Language Support Practitioner Apprenticeship leads to the Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner qualification and includes additional Speech and Language Link certification. The programme is delivered through flexible online learning, training events and monthly coaching sessions, making it accessible for busy early years professionals. Funding is available through the Apprenticeship Levy.

Who is the apprenticeship for?

This programme is designed for practitioners working in nurseries, pre-schools and other early years settings who want to become specialists in speech, language and communication.

It is particularly relevant for:

• Early Years Practitioners
• Room Leaders
• Nursery SENCOs
• Early Years Support Staff
• Practitioners supporting children with emerging speech, language and communication needs
• Professionals looking to progress into leadership roles within early years provision

The programme equips learners to become speech and language champions within their setting, developing confidence in supporting children’s communication, interaction, play and learning.

Why this matters

Speech, language and communication are fundamental to children’s learning, relationships, wellbeing and future achievement.

Many children enter early years settings with delayed language skills or difficulties communicating their needs. Without effective support, these challenges can affect confidence, social development and readiness for school.

By building specialist expertise within early years teams, settings can:

• Identify communication needs earlier
• Support children more effectively during the critical early years
• Promote inclusion and participation
• Strengthen partnerships with families
• Improve children’s readiness for learning and school
• Create communication-friendly environments that benefit all children

Developing staff confidence and knowledge helps ensure every child has the best possible opportunity to thrive.

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Delivered in partnership

Best Practice Network provides the apprenticeship framework, training delivery and assessment expertise, while Speech and Language Link contributes specialist speech and language content developed by qualified Speech and Language Therapists.

Together, we ensure that learners gain both a recognised qualification and practical strategies that can be applied immediately within early years settings.

What practitioners will learn

Throughout the programme, learners will develop a deeper understanding of speech, language and communication development from birth to five.

Key areas include:

Understanding child communication development

Explore how speech, language and communication skills develop and how practitioners can support children at every stage.

Early identification of needs

Learn how to recognise potential speech, language and communication needs and take appropriate action within an early years setting.

Creating communication-rich environments

Develop strategies to promote language, interaction and engagement through everyday activities, routines and play.

Supporting inclusion

Gain practical approaches for helping children participate confidently in learning, play and social experiences.

Working with families and professionals

Build skills in collaborative working with parents, carers, SENCOs, speech and language therapists and other professionals.

Leading best practice

Develop the confidence to champion communication development across your setting and support colleagues in implementing effective approaches.