ACL Essex, part of Essex County Council, is encouraging new learners to sign up to their early years courses.
Funded by the Poppins Bursary, the courses aim to boost recruitment and retention in childcare settings across the county. They will support the anticipated rise in demand for childcare places following the government’s recent childcare offer expansion.
The funded early years and childcare courses are ideal for people currently working in the sector, and those looking to kickstart their career or re-enter the early years workforce.
Councillor Tony Ball, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, said: “ACL Essex’s early years courses are a great way for people to develop their skills within the sector. Continuous professional development opportunities are available for employees, plus a range of career pathways for them to consider.”
He added: “For those who want to change careers or enter the early years sector, it’s never too late to do something different. The Poppins Bursary supports those who want to start a career in early years by offering apprenticeships and diploma qualifications.”
Current employees will be able to upskill and develop their careers in the sector. Opportunities to develop in management and SEND are available as specialist pathways. There are also new qualifications in play work and mental health.
New grants will also support those considering a career as a childminder. The Poppins team will aid learners interested in setting up their own early years business. This will include a comprehensive eligibility, learning and finance package.
Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Levelling Up, Communities and Business Engagement, said: “I’m delighted that enrolments are now open to our fully funded training courses, with lots of support for those looking to enter or progress within the early years sector.”
She continued: “Every child deserves a great start in life, and passionate early years practitioners play a crucial role in that. Our funded courses and childminding grants will help individuals who love working with children to launch or elevate their careers in early years and I urge anyone with an interest in this area to take advantage of one of the great courses that ACL has to offer.”
Courses are available to enrol on to from September 2024. To find out more about ACL Essex’s courses, visit www.aclessex.com/poppins. To enquire about Poppins, complete the form on the web page or email [email protected].
