December 23, 2025 admin
If you work with young children or are thinking about a career in childcare, an Early Years Foundation Stage course can help you develop the knowledge and skills you need. Whether you’re a nursery worker, childminder, or completely new to early years, an EYFS course will teach you how to support children’s development properly.
In this guide, we’ll explain what an Early Years Foundation Stage course is, who needs it, what you’ll learn, and how it can help your career in the early years sector. We’ll also look at online options, different qualification levels, and how to get started with your training.
What is Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)?
Early Years Foundation Stage, or EYFS, is the official framework that guides early years settings in England. It sets out what childcare providers, nurseries, and schools should do to help young children learn and develop well.
EYFS applies to all early years settings, including nurseries, childminders, reception classes, and pre-schools. The framework focuses on how children learn through play and exploration. It covers children from birth until the end of reception class. Early years providers use EYFS to plan activities, assess children’s progress, and support each child’s development.
Why Take an Early Years Foundation Stage Course?
If you work in early years or want to start working with young children, there are several good reasons to take an EYFS course.
Professional Knowledge and Skills
An Early Years Foundation Stage training course gives you professional knowledge about how young children develop. You’ll understand the ages and stages of child development. You’ll learn effective teaching and learning strategies that work with early years learners. This knowledge helps you do your job better and feel more confident working with children.
Ofsted and Legal Requirements
Early years providers in England must follow EYFS, and Ofsted inspectors check that settings are delivering it properly. Staff who understand EYFS can help their settings meet these requirements. Having trained staff who know the framework helps settings get good Ofsted ratings. Understanding legislation and policies that affect early years settings is also important for compliance.
Career Progression
Taking an EYFS course shows employers you’re serious about early years work. It opens doors to better roles and more responsibility. Many nurseries and training providers prefer staff with proper qualifications. CPD (Continuing Professional Development) courses keep your knowledge up to date as guidance changes.
Better Outcomes for Children
When practitioners have proper training, children benefit. You’ll be able to plan activities that really support children’s progress. You’ll understand how to observe and assess children properly. You’ll know how to create inclusive environments where all children can learn well.
The 5 Principles of the EYLF (Early Years Learning Framework)
Understanding the 5 principles is absolutely central to EYFS. Let’s look at what they mean in simple terms.
Principle 1: Every Child is a Unique Individual
Every child develops at their own pace and in their own way. They have different interests, abilities, and family backgrounds. As early years practitioners, you need to recognise and celebrate each child’s uniqueness. You should plan activities that match each child’s interests and developmental needs.
Principle 2: Children Learn to Be Strong and Independent
Young children need to develop confidence and independence. They need opportunities to make choices, take safe risks, and solve simple problems. Supporting independence means letting children do things for themselves, even if it takes longer than doing it for them. You help children become confident by praising effort and letting them experience both success and manageable challenges.
Principle 3: Children Learn Best Through Positive Relationships
Relationships are fundamental to how young children learn. Children need warm, caring adults who they trust. They learn through watching and copying adults. Good relationships with practitioners help children feel secure enough to explore and learn. Building positive relationships with families is also essential.
Principle 4: Children Learn and Develop Well in Enabling Environments
The environment both physical space and how it’s organised really matters. Young children learn through exploring safe, interesting environments indoors and outdoors. An enabling environment provides resources, space, and time for children to play and explore. It’s organised in ways that help children learn independently.
Principle 5: Children Develop and Learn in Different Ways and at Different Rates
This principle reminds us not to expect all children to learn the same things at the same time. Some children are early talkers; others might be advanced physically. Some love quiet activities; others prefer energetic play. Good early years practice recognises these differences and supports each child’s unique development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EYFS?
EYFS is the Early Years Foundation Stage framework that guides early years settings in England. It covers children from birth to age 5. The framework focuses on 7 areas of learning and development and promotes learning through play.
How to get EYFS qualification?
Enrol on a Level 2 or Level 3 early years course with a training provider. Complete the modules and coursework. Show you can apply EYFS in practice through assessments. Receive your certificate once you’ve finished.
What is EYFS teacher salary?
Early years practitioners typically earn £18,000-£22,000 yearly. Experienced practitioners or managers earn more. Early years teachers earn £24,000-£32,000+. Salary depends on experience, location, and the type of setting.
What are the 5 principles of EYLF?
The 5 principles are: every child is unique; children learn to be strong and independent; children learn best through positive relationships; children develop well in enabling environments; and children develop in different ways and at different rates.
What level is a foundation degree in early years?
A foundation degree is typically Level 5 quite advanced. It usually takes two years full-time study and covers early years plus related topics in depth.
Can I study EYFS online for free?
Some online courses are free, particularly if government-funded. However, free courses might be limited or have specific eligibility. Most comprehensive online courses require payment.
How long does EYFS training take?
It depends on the level. Level 2 might take 8-12 weeks. Level 3 usually takes 12-16 weeks. Full-time courses are faster; part-time courses take longer. Some flexible courses let you study at your own pace.
Do childminders need EYFS training?
Childminders should understand EYFS, though formal qualification requirements vary. Many childminders take EYFS training to improve their practice and meet Ofsted expectations.
Next Steps and Call to Action
If you work with young children or want to start a career in early years, an Early Years Foundation Stage course is a brilliant investment in your future.
You now understand what EYFS is, why it matters, and what you’ll learn on a course. You know about different qualification levels, online options, and the career opportunities available. The next step is to find a course that suits you.
Look for early years foundation stage course providers near you, or search for online courses if that suits you better. Think about whether Level 2 or Level 3 is right for your situation. Consider whether you prefer studying full-time, part-time, or online. Compare different providers and their fees.
Ready to start? An Early Years Foundation Stage qualification will help you develop the professional knowledge needed to really support young children’s learning and development. Your career in early years could start today.