Early Years Initial Teacher Training
Shape children’s futures by inspiring them at the very start of their learning journey.
Begin Your Career in Early Years Education (Ages 3–5)
Our early years initial teacher training programme is designed for those who want to nurture young children during the most formative stage of their development. Through expert-led, school-based training across high-quality nursery and reception settings, you’ll gain the knowledge, confidence and practical experience needed to specialise in Early Years teaching.
The Early Years phase includes the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), covering children aged 3–5, from Nursery through to the Reception year.
What Makes Early Years Teaching Unique?
Early Years education is grounded in exploration, curiosity and play. The EYFS framework focuses on creating supportive, stimulating learning environments where young children build essential language, social, physical and cognitive skills. During your training, you’ll learn how to plan purposeful, play-based learning experiences that help each child grow and thrive.
The 7 Areas of Learning in the EYFS
Your early years initial teacher training will prepare you to teach across all seven key areas of the EYFS:
- Communication and Language
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Physical Development
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts and Design
Train Across EYFS and Key Stage 1 (Ages 3–7)
The Futures Teaching Alliance Early Years SCITT programme uniquely prepares you to teach across both:
- Early Years Foundation Stage (3–5)
- Primary Key Stage 1 (5–7)
This broadens your expertise and gives you a deeper understanding of how children transition from early learning into more structured primary education.
Why Choose Our Early Years Initial Teacher Training Route?
Our programme offers:
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School-centred, hands-on training from day one
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High-quality placements in experienced Early Years settings
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Mentoring from expert Early Years practitioners
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Strong focus on child development, play-based learning and early assessment
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Tailored support throughout your training year
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Excellent employment opportunities in nurseries and primary schools
You will complete your training ready to deliver engaging, nurturing and developmentally appropriate learning experiences for every child.
Take Your Next Steps Into Early Years Teaching
Attend an Experience Event
See effective Early Years practice in action and understand the realities of classroom life.
Contact Us for More Information and Support
Our team is here to guide you through your early years initial teacher training options and answer any questions.
Check the Eligibility Requirements
Make sure you meet the entry criteria for Early Years ITT before applying.
Discover Funding and Financial Support
Explore bursaries, loans and financial help available to support your training year.
