Elevate Your Career

Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner (RQF)

Cost:  £1650 (Payment Plan)

Payment plan option: Over 6 months

Discount available for more than 6 learners on group workshops 

Duration: 15 - 18 Months

Awarding Body: NCFE

Secure your place today

Realise your full potential with ELA – the trusted provider of high-quality training in adult care, early years education, and specialist support roles.


Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring leader, our nationally recognised apprenticeships and diplomas are structured to enhance your expertise, build your confidence, and fast-track your career progression.

Enrol Now: Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner

Step into a senior role in early years education with the Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner (RQF). A nationally recognised qualification that prepares you to lead, mentor, and inspire within early years settings.


Whether you’re an experienced practitioner aiming to progress or stepping into leadership for the first time, this diploma equips you with advanced skills and knowledge to thrive in nurseries, preschools, and childcare environments.


As a Senior Practitioner in Early Years, you will:



  • Lead practice that supports children’s learning, development, and well-being.
  • Mentor and guide colleagues to improve quality and outcomes.
  • Manage teams, resources, and safeguarding responsibilities effectively.
  • Drive inclusive practice, equality, and diversity in early years provision.
  • Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, and professionals.


Take the next step towards shaping young lives and advancing your career—enrol today and realise your leadership potential in early years education.

Limited Spaces Available - Apply Today!

Course Highlights - What You'll Gain

01

Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner (RQF)

02

In-depth knowledge of safeguarding, child development, and inclusive practice

03

Leadership and management skills for teams, resources, and environments

04

Confidence to lead positive change, influence practice, and progress into senior or specialist roles

Why Choose ELA for Your Early Years Training?

Shape Young Lives with Confidence
Gain the tools and knowledge to lead high-quality early learning environments that ensure every child flourishes.


Document with magnifying glass, indicating search or review.

Aligned with EYFS Standards
The diploma is designed around the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, covering safeguarding, child development, leadership, and reflective practice—helping you meet and exceed professional standards.

Arrows pointing up, left, and right, indicating options or choices.

Learning That Works Around You
Delivered through a flexible blend of online workshops, virtual teaching, and workplace assessments, this course allows you to progress without putting your career on hold.

Hands shaking, black and white, representing agreement or partnership.

We Build Leaders, Not Just Qualifications
At ELA, we develop senior practitioners who inspire, guide, and lead with confidence—making a lasting impact on the children, families, and teams they support.

A teacher kneels with children on the floor, showing a wooden toy. Classroom setting, colorful toys.

Delivery and Assessment



Training That Works For You

  • Blended Learning Model

    Our blended model combines online learning, in-person workshops, and hands-on workplace experience to ensure you can apply theory to practice. Scheduled sessions and flexible self-study options give you the freedom to learn when it suits you, while access to tutors and peer groups keeps you supported throughout.

  • Leadership & Safeguarding Focus

    You will develop leadership skills that prepare you to guide teams, promote best practices, and create nurturing environments where children feel safe and supported. Safeguarding is at the heart of this training, with every module covering key responsibilities, legal requirements, and proactive strategies to protect and promote children’s welfare.

  • Dedicated Personal Tutor

    One-to-one support with monthly tutorials, tailored feedback via an e-portfolio, and access to group workshops and high-quality online resources.

  • Collaborative Employer Engagement

    We work closely with your nursery or setting to align learning with workplace goals, ensuring practical relevance and support from mentors or line managers.

  • Tailored Learning Paths

    Training matches your pace, role, and prior experience, guiding you step by step to become a confident, capable senior practitioner.

  • Key Learning Modules

    • Leading Practice for Children’s Development and Well-being
    • Safeguarding and Child Protection in Early Years
    • Equality, Diversity, and Inclusive Practice
    • Team Leadership and Mentoring Colleagues
    • Partnership with Parents, Carers, and Professionals
    • Curriculum Planning and Enabling Environments
    • Observation, Assessment, and Recording Progress
    • Reflective Practice and Professional Development
    • Health, Safety, and Risk Management in Early Years Settings
    • Managing Resources and Promoting Sustainability


Don't Delay - Limited Spaces Available!

Take the next step in your early years career and become a qualified, confident Senior Practitioner.
Enrolment is open NOW – apply today to secure your place and start leading with impact!


📞Contact us today to book your free consultation or enrol instantly.

✅ Flexible start dates | Online training | Nationally recognised qualifications