Start your early years career

Earn while you learn, gain real experience, and build a rewarding career in childcare

Why choose us

What you get

Three reasons to start your apprenticeship with RTS

Earn

Earn while you learn

Get paid from day one as you train in a real childcare setting.

Real-world experience

Work with children every day while building genuine skills.

Progress your career

Move from Level 2 to Level 3 to Level 5 as you grow.

Support

We're with you every step

A dedicated skills coach works alongside you throughout your apprenticeship. Monthly online masterclasses keep you sharp, and regular check-ins ensure you're on track.

Learn more

Monthly masterclasses

Join online sessions with other learners and trainers. These aren't lectures—they're practical, focused on what matters in real childcare settings.

Regular check-ins

Your skills coach stays in touch. We spot what's working and adjust support where you need it most.

Multi-Assessment Visits

Every three months, an assessor visits your setting to observe your progress and gather evidence of your learning.

Process

How it works

Four simple steps to get started

Apply for your apprenticeship

Tell us about yourself and your goals.

We match you with an employer

We find a nursery or setting that fits you.

Start learning and earning

Begin your apprenticeship with full support from day one.

Learning

What you'll learn and master

Your apprenticeship covers child development, safeguarding, the Early Years Foundation Stage, and practical skills you'll use every day in real childcare settings.

Child development

Understand how children grow, learn, and develop. You'll apply this knowledge in the room every single day.

Safeguarding and welfare

Learn to protect children and create safe, secure environments. This is non-negotiable in early years.

EYFS and planning

Master the Early Years Foundation Stage framework and plan activities that matter. You'll know why you're doing what you do.

What they say

Hear from those who know

During my apprenticeship, I found RTS to be extremely helpful throughout every challenge. They supported me with a variety of tasks and helped me qualify to Level 2. I’m now studying Level 3 and feel confident with the help and support from everyone at RTS.
Paige Ellis - Munchkins Kindergarten
Level 3 apprentice, East Midlands
Since completing my Level 3, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge and confidence. I love being able to support children at such crucial developmental stages. Riverside has been incredible throughout my apprenticeship.
Erin Lock - Little Bunnies Day Nursery
Level 3 apprentice, East Anglia
Riverside is showing me great support throughout my apprenticeship and still continues to do so, monthly zooms and consistent check ins with the work help support me with my journey, I feel confident moving forward with the apprenticeship due to a great support base and accessible resources.
Lilli Cole- Poppies Day Nursery
Level 3 apprentice, East Anglia

Ready to begin

Take the first step in your early years career with RTS Training today.

Apply nowLearn more