A Different Route into Early Years

If you’ve always wanted a career in Early Years but found that an apprenticeship isn’t possible for you, you’re not alone. Many people working in nurseries, or hoping to enter the sector, discover that apprenticeships, although excellent, are not always accessible.

For many learners, the most common reason is this:

They have already started a Level 3 apprenticeship before and used up their apprenticeship funding.

Apprenticeship funding can only be accessed once, and this leaves many people stuck, even if they had to withdraw for reasons completely outside their control.

This includes learners who previously left an apprenticeship due to:

• Maternity leave
• Long-term sickness
• A training provider closing down
• Becoming homeless
• A sudden change in family circumstances
• Moving areas
• Or any situation that meant they couldn’t finish

If this sounds like you, Swift Childcare offers a second chance.
The Level 3 Early Years Educator Diploma is a full and relevant qualification that gets you fully trained, recognised, and counted in ratios in as little as ten months.

Why Choose the Level 3 Diploma Instead of an Apprenticeship?

When apprenticeships are no longer an option, many aspiring practitioners feel like their career dreams have hit a dead end.
This diploma removes that barrier completely.

A recognised qualification that counts towards ratios

Once completed, you will be counted in ratio as a Level 3 practitioner, exactly like someone who completed the apprenticeship route.

Perfect for people already working in a nursery

If your setting can’t support an apprenticeship or if your hours don’t match apprenticeship requirements, the diploma fits around your role with ease.

Complete it in as little as ten months

Faster than the typical 18-month apprenticeship, helping you move forward sooner.

Flexible funding options

Swift provides accessible ways to join:

• Advanced Learner Loan – covers the full cost with nothing to pay upfront (if eligible).
• Self-funding – ideal for anyone who is not loan-eligible or has used up apprenticeship funding before.
• Employer contributions – many nurseries choose to support or split the cost.

Who This Diploma Is Perfect For

This qualification is ideal if you:

• Previously used up your apprenticeship funding and cannot restart
• Work in a nursery but cannot complete an apprenticeship
• Do not meet apprenticeship residency or eligibility requirements
• Want to retrain into Early Years
• Need a faster, more flexible path to becoming Level 3 qualified
• Prefer structured learning with strong, personal support

Why Learners Choose Swift

Learners often tell us:

“This was the perfect option for me because I had already used up my apprenticeship funding. I thought I had run out of options, but this diploma gave me another chance.”

“The support has been amazing. I felt confident from the start.”

Swift’s tutors, support team, and clear learning structure guide you every step of the way.

Your Future Starts Here

If you’re ready to progress but feel blocked by apprenticeship rules or funding limits, the Level 3 Early Years Educator Diploma offers a fresh start and a realistic path forward.

Become qualified, confident, and career-ready in just ten months.

Find out more HERE