Free skills bootcamps in early years now open for September applications
Kirklees residents can take part in a fully funded Skills Bootcamp designed to help people launch a rewarding career in the Early Years sector.
The course delivered by Kirklees Council’s Adult Learning team, recently generated praise in an Ofsted report for the high quality of their learning provision.
Skills Bootcamps are fast-track training programmes in areas such as early education, construction and digital marketing, preparing learners with practical, job-ready skills, to enhance career opportunities.
The Early Years course is over eight weeks and includes 60 hours of face-to-face learning, running two days per week, and equips participants with sector specific skills that prepare them for roles working with young children.
On completion, participants will be guaranteed an interview with a local employer, giving them a clear pathway into meaningful employment.
Cllr Amanda Pinnock, Cabinet Member for Education and Communities, commented:
“The Skills Bootcamps are a brilliant opportunity for people in our community to gain practical, employable skills in a growing sector. Early Years education plays such a vital role in shaping children’s futures and we’re proud to help more local people take their first steps into this rewarding profession.”
The Early Years Skills Bootcamp has already seen strong success. Since September 2024, 39 people completed the programme and 11 learners have already gained permanent employment, with many more actively looking for work with the support from our tutors, working in schools through employment agencies or volunteering to gain more practical experience.
Among them is Kerry who has secured employment in a local primary school, she said on completing the course:
“I feel confident, proud and privileged. This course has been a lot more in depth than I thought it would be and I’ve developed my knowledge and understanding.
“I’m looking forward to working with young children and being a huge help in their learning journey. I have thoroughly enjoyed the Skills Bootcamp and would recommend it to anyone thinking about a career in Early Years. Tutors are extremely knowledgeable, very kind and supportive.”
The Early Years Skills Bootcamp course curriculum Includes:
- Understanding the key principles of safeguarding and child protection
- Recognising the value of play in Early Years and its impact on learning
- Understanding the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework
- Supporting speech, language and communication in young children
- Encouraging personal, social and emotional development
- Developing early maths and literacy skills
- Meeting the needs of all children, including those with SEND
- Paediatric First Aid training
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be aged 19 or over
- Have the right to work in the UK
- Live in England
Whether you’re returning to work, changing careers or just starting out, the Early Years Skills Bootcamp could be the boost you need. Applications are currently open for the September 2025 Early Years Skills Bootcamp.
You can now apply online. Applicants will be shortlisted and invited for a short interview before being offered a place. Find out more through the Employment and Skills website or email success.centres@kirklees.gov.uk
The programme is part of the government’s wider Skills for Life initiative, aimed at closing skills gaps and supporting people into secure, long-term employment.
Our Kirklees Futures
Skills Bootcamps support key priorities of Our Kirklees Futures, the borough-wide vision for inclusive learning, wellbeing, and strong families. For more information, please visit the Our Kirklees Futures webpage.