Emily Raper at Best Family Childcare is the first apprentice studying with Best Practice Network (BPN) to complete her End-Point Assessment in Early Years Lead Practitioner, achieving the highest grade, with Distinction. The Early Years Lead Practitioner approved in August 2021, has only seen a handful of apprentices complete assessments across the UK so far, with an intake of over 2000 active apprentices and growing, it is set to be a popular apprenticeship and will support the Early Years sector moving forward. Seeing the first few apprentices coming through and achieving high grades is testimony to not only the apprentice, provider and employer but to the sector itself.
Emily spoke of her experience, “My Level 5 apprenticeship has been the ignition to spark a love of furthering my own knowledge and understanding of what I do every day. I have loved demonstrating my practice in my studies and being able to showcase the pride I have in the children I care for. Gaining a distinction in all areas has been the cherry on the cake and sets me in a good place for higher qualifications.”
Tracy Clement, Apprenticeships Director at Best Practice Network said “We are delighted that Emily, as our first apprentice to complete the Early Years Level 5 Lead Practitioner, has been awarded a Distinction. A great testament to her hard work and the support and dedication of all the Apprenticeship Team, who have worked so hard to build and deliver this great programme, especially her Tutor, Sian.”
In August 2023, NQual carried out Emily’s End-Point Assessment and was impressed with the level of preparation from Emily and support from BPN. NQual’s EPA Manager for Early Years and Education, Nicky Reynolds commented. “I'm really pleased with the level and calibre of apprentices coming through to EPA, demonstrated by our first Level 5 Early Years completion. I am looking forward to seeing many more Early Years completing their End-Point Assessment with us going forward.”
We collectively would like to congratulate Emily on her outstanding achievement and wish good luck to all apprentices working through or starting their EPA journey.