According to Realise, a training provider, the number of Level 2 apprentices in early years has declined by 5 per cent over the last three academic years – from 6,972 in 2021-22 to 6,457 in 2023-24.
It says research also shows 72 per cent of settings spent more on agency staff in 2024 than the two years prior.
Realise is now urging settings and the Government to place a ‘renewed focus’ on Level 2 apprentices.
Just last month, the chief executive of CT Skills, Alex Ford, called for funding for Level 7 (equivalent to a Master’s degree) apprenticeships to be removed to free up more money for Level 2 and Level 3 early years apprenticeships, which helps get people into the industry.
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