Addressing concerns about the quality of childcare for the under fives, a new apprenticeship course in early years education is being launched, and will be open to applications in September.
Each apprenticeship is expected to last, on average, twenty months and will combine studying for childcare qualifications at college with on the job training.
Around a thousand apprenticeships will be offered, each with a bursary of £1,500 to cover living expenses and funding for additional training in the form of a further £300.
The programme will be centred around nurseries offering subsidised childcare places.
Applicants must have a C grade or better in GCSE English and math.
Education Minister Elizabeth Truss says: “Caring for and educating young children is a fantastically rewarding job.
“The bursaries announced today will make it easier for talented people to start a career in early education.
“Providing good quality early education is proven to help young children get a head-start in life, especially those who are from poorer backgrounds.
“I hope these bursaries encourage students to consider working in early education.”
