Cliffe House Training Academy – Early Years Independent Training Provider

100% pass rate

We are proud to have a 100% pass rate!

Zero fees for students

Our courses are completely free for students, with a maximum 5% contribution for employers

Face-to-face coaching

Each student has their own dedicated tutor who they see face-to-face every month

About us

We are a proud provider of bespoke Early Years apprenticeships for aspiring practitioners across Yorkshire.

The sister company to Cliffe House Day Nurseries, Cliffe House Training Academy was formed in 2022, with an aim to train the next generation of nursery practitioners.

Our Training Academy works alongside Cliffe House’s 7 nurseries, and with external nurseries in the Yorkshire area.

ABOUT CLIFFE HOUSE TRAINING ACADEMY

Training the Cliffe House way

Get to know your own tutor

We recognise the value of face-to-face teaching with your own dedicated tutor. We do not rely solely on online learning – you will see your tutor, in person, once a month.

Paid study time

Study during your contracted hours during the week – so there’s no catching up on a weekend! We provide all the study equipment you’ll need.

three apprentices on a Skills Builder day

Engaging Training Days

Take part in our Training Days and meet fellow apprentices and learn lots of new skills to help you in both your career and wider personal development.

Our courses

Level 2 Early Years Practitioner

ST0888

Entry requirements

Maths & English GCSE at Grade 3 or above.

Qualification duration

12 months for the qualification, 3 months for the End Point Assessment.

What will I learn?

How to promote safe, inclusive environments and practices in Early Years settings
How to monitor and support children’s milestones
How to manage care routines
How to encourage play as a medium for learning
and lots more!

Level 3 Early Years Educator

ST0135

Entry requirements

Maths & English GCSE at Grade 4 or above, Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Qualification or relevant experience working in Early Years.

Qualification duration

18 months for the qualification, 3 months for the End Point Assessment.

What will I learn?

How to promote the emotional and physical wellbeing of children, key person responsibilities
To understand and follow legislation relating to inclusivity, children’s health and safety, and child safeguarding
To plan, lead and review play activities which support children’s learning and development
How to build strong professional relationships with colleagues, parents, and external agencies
and lots more!

Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner

ST0551

Entry requirements

You must be aged 19 or over, have the Early Years Educator Level 3 Qualification or equivalent and be in a current Senior Role.

Qualification duration

18- 24 months, and 3 months for the End Point Assessment.

What will I learn?

How to develop skills to lead and manage teams effectively in early years settings
Holistic child development from birth to seven years
Curriculum planning
How to promote the well-being and resilience of children
How to support children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
and lots more!

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT OUR COURSES HERE!

Our team

Dedicated to providing an excellent apprenticeship experience from start-to-finish, our friendly, approachable team are here every step of the way.

Della Stocks

Director

Tori Doherty

training Manager

Octavia Hamilton

quality assurance manager

Amber Whiteley

Tutor & Assessor

Melissa Goaten

Tutor & Assessor

Claire Scothern

Tutor & Assessor

Natasha North

Marketing manager

What are you waiting for?

Would you like to begin or develop your childcare career, or are you an employer looking to recruit an apprentice in the Early Years sector? Contact us today and speak with our friendly team.

A typical day as an Early Years Apprentice

toddler laughing looking at his own reflection in a mirror

apprentice getting employee of the month

Explore Our Blog

Read blog

a nursery apprentice reading to two toddlers

The benefits of doing an apprenticeship

Choosing what to do after leaving school or college can feel overwhelming. It can feel as though there’s so[…]

Suzie, one of our tutors, teaching learners

How to retain staff in Early Years Settings

The early years sector is one of the most rewarding places to work. You’re surrounded by hilarious, unique, growing minds…

tutors and apprentices at a Skills Builder Day

Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental health in the workplace is no longer a “nice to have” conversation — it’s an essential part of[…]

Testimonials

Having used previous providers for NVQ Level 2 and 3, Cliffe House’s course and
educators stand out as offering a very high quality level of learning.
The course has been created by Early Years professionals who have a strong understanding of the core elements needed to be an Early Years Practitioner.

Helen – Nursery Manager
The Learning Tree Nursery and Pre-School

When I started, I wasn’t sure what to expect, as I had no previous Early Years experience. But I absolutely love it! Each day is different and so rewarding, I can study in my working hours so everything is manageable and support is always there from my tutor. I would highly recommend Cliffe House Training Academy to start off your Early Years Career.

Katie – Early Years Practitioner

It’s lovely to see our students progressing and their confidence growing as they learn alongside their roles. I would definitely recommend Cliffe House Training Academy. This is also a great thing we explain to parents on show arounds – we talk about the individual approach Cliffe House Training Academy has to our learners and our business needs.

Laura – Nursery Manager
Cliffe House Day Nurseries

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   Kaitlin Hacker 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have just completed my Level 2 with Cliffe House and it had been amazing! They are all so supportive and there for you whenever you need their support. Thank you so much! Roll on my Level 3! 💕✨
  
 
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   jamie taylor 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have just qualified with Cliffe House Training Academy, and couldn't speak highly enough of the whole team. Mellissa has been a fabulous tutor, nothing was ever too much trouble, even when I forgot about our tutor sessions until she got to work, on multiple occasions🤣 Tori is possibly the most organised person Iv ever met, also dropping things and making space in her diary to help me when I needed it. And Octavia is also quick to help at the drop of a hat, with a fabulous sense of humour, and a wealth of knowledge. The whole team genuinely care about their students. Highly recommend! Thanks again to all of you, Jamie x
  
 
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   Billie 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have just finished my level 2 apprenticeship with Cliffe House and I’m sad it’s ended! They’ve been so incredibly supportive throughout my time with them. Also shout out to the best tutor ever Claire, she went above and beyond at making sure that I had the best opportunity to pass. Massive thank you to everyone!❤️
  
 
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   Anja Taylor 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The tutors are so supportive and offer constant support throughout. The coaching sessions are super helpful and informative. Melissa has been beyond amazing so far throughout my qualification and has really helped my confidence come on.
  
 
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   Hannah Lees 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent, professional tutors who are extremely caring and supportive towards their students.
  
 
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   Sara Sheikh 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience throughout my apprenticeship. The coaching sessions were insightful and really helped me develop both my skills knowledge and confidence all thanks to Tori. Each month she would go into depth about what needed to be done and where I could find any help if I needed the support through the resource centre on Aptem.The support from all staff was outstanding—whether it was Tori, colleagues, or other team members, everyone was always willing to help and offer guidance and be very supportive throughout my Apprenticeship. I always felt encouraged and supported, which made a huge difference in my learning and development. The structure of the program made it easy to track my progress, and I felt well-prepared for each month as I knew from Aptem what needed to be done each month. Overall, it was a positive and valuable journey that has helped me grow both professionally and I have gained so much confidence.
  
 
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   Jen Croston 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I couldn’t recommend Cliffe house training academy enough, they have supported me throughout my apprenticeship and all the way to my final exams. Being an older apprentice that decided to make a change in my career didn’t phase them, they have supported me personally and professionally throughout even when I doubted myself! I have now completed my level 3 after brilliant support from my tutor and the whole academy team. If you are looking into getting in to early years come to Cliffehouse training academy!
  
 
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   lily hobson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I couldn’t have gotten through my level 3 if it weren’t for cliffe house training academy! They are so supportive and helpful. They help you whenever you need and answer any silly questions you may have without making you feel silly!! The coaching sessions are amazing! I actually look forward to them, which is something I never thought I would say. The tutors are such advocates for you, thank you cliffe house🤍🤍
  
 
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   Francesca Shaw 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have just finished my level three qualification with Cliffe House training academy and i'm sad it's over because I really enjoyed the whole experience. The tutors were always supportive and got back to any questions I had quickly! Aptem, which is the academy's own training platform was easy to understand and the tools provided on there were really helpful. My tutor Tori gave examples from her own experience of working in a nursery in our 121 sessions which helped me understand some units better and I was blown away with all her knowledge. Thankyou Cliffe House day nurseries and training academy!
  
 
  
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