What is Skills for Work?
AKG Learning is proud to deliver fully funded Early Years training through the Greater London Authority’s London Talent Pathways programme.
Working in partnership with employers, referral organisations and individual learners, we’re helping to tackle skills shortages across London’s Early Years sector by developing confident, capable professionals and creating clear pathways into employment.
If you’re working with people who are looking for employment who might benefit from support with their skills and education, our Early Years courses are designed to help provide the necessary qualifications to work in a Nursery or Primary School setting.
Find the right course for you
- Occupational Studies for the Workplace
- Introducing Caring for Children and Young People
- Understanding Autism
- Understanding Behaviour that Challenges
- Understanding Children and Young People's Mental Health
- Technical Early Years Educator Diploma
Occupational Studies for the Workplace
Course duration: 1 week
Delivery Method: Face-to-face
This programme is designed to help learners build the confidence, skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workplace.
Throughout the course, learners develop the essential workplace skills that employers value, including effective communication, teamwork, problem-solving and time management. Through practical activities, they learn how to work well with others, organise their workload, make informed decisions and communicate professionally in a range of workplace situations.
The programme also focuses on employability, helping learners create a professional CV and cover letter, search for suitable job opportunities and complete job applications with confidence.
By the end of the programme, learners will have developed the practical skills, confidence and positive workplace behaviours needed to take the next step into employment, further learning or vocational training.
Introducing Caring for Children and Young People
Course duration: 2 weeks
Delivery Method: Face-to-face
This programme provides learners with a broad introduction to childcare and child development, helping them build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to progress into early years, childcare or education.
Throughout the programme, learners explore how children grow, learn and develop, while gaining an understanding of the importance of safeguarding, play, inclusion and positive relationships. They also learn about the vital role adults play in supporting children’s learning, development and wellbeing, and how positive environments and experiences help children thrive.
By the end of the programme, learners will have a strong foundation in child development and the key principles of working with children, preparing them to take the next step into further learning, vocational training or a career in the childcare and education sector.
Understanding Autism
Course duration: 3 Months
This programme helps learners develop a greater understanding of autism and the diverse strengths, experiences and support needs of autistic individuals. It is ideal for those looking to work in, or already working in, education, childcare or community settings.
Throughout the programme, learners explore key topics including communication, social interaction, sensory processing and behaviour. They will develop a better understanding of the barriers autistic individuals may experience and learn practical strategies to promote inclusion, independence and wellbeing.
The programme also introduces person-centred approaches, professional responsibilities and effective ways to support autistic individuals. By the end of the course, learners will have the knowledge and confidence to make a positive difference in their current or future role, while building a strong foundation for further learning or career development.
Understanding Behaviour that Challenges
Course duration: 2 Months
This programme helps learners develop the knowledge and understanding needed to support individuals whose behaviour may be described as challenging. It explores the different factors that can influence behaviour and recognises that behaviour is often a form of communication.
Throughout the programme, learners develop an understanding of person-centred approaches, positive behaviour support and the importance of effective communication. They will explore practical strategies for responding to behaviour in a way that promotes dignity, wellbeing and positive outcomes.
The course also highlights the value of reflection, professional support and working collaboratively with others to ensure individuals are supported safely, respectfully and effectively. By the end of the programme, learners will have the knowledge and confidence to apply these approaches within their current or future role.
Understanding Children and Young People's Mental Health
Course duration: 3 Months
This programme helps learners develop a greater understanding of children and young people’s mental health and emotional wellbeing, preparing them to support positive outcomes in education, childcare and community settings.
Throughout the programme, learners explore the factors that can influence mental health and wellbeing, common mental health concerns, and the impact these can have on children and young people. They will develop the knowledge to recognise when someone may need additional support, understand the importance of early intervention, and learn how to promote positive mental wellbeing.
The programme also covers safeguarding, professional responsibilities and the support services available to children and young people. By the end of the course, learners will have the knowledge and confidence to contribute positively within their current or future role, while building a strong foundation for further learning or career development.
Technical Early Years Educator Diploma
Course duration: 12 Months
The Level 3 Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector prepares learners to become confident, skilled and reflective early years educators. It provides the knowledge and practical experience needed to work with children from birth to five years, while also developing an understanding of children aged five to seven years.
Throughout the programme, learners explore key areas including child development, safeguarding, health and safety, inclusive practice, communication, planning engaging learning experiences, and observing and assessing children’s progress. Alongside classroom learning, they gain valuable hands-on experience in a real early years setting, helping them put their knowledge into practice and build the skills employers are looking for.
The course encourages learners to reflect on their practice and continue developing as professionals, preparing them to support children’s learning, development and wellbeing while working effectively with families and other professionals.
To achieve the qualification, learners must complete a minimum of 300 hours of work placement, although 350 hours is recommended wherever possible to provide broader practical experience.
Invest in your people
If you’re an employer or existing Early Years Practitioner
Developing your workforce doesn’t just improve skills; it strengthens confidence, improves retention, and helps you continue delivering high-quality care.
Our flexible online programmes enable staff to continue learning around their existing roles while gaining nationally recognised qualifications.
Ideal for:
Nurseries | Preschool settings | Childcare providers | Existing Early Years practitioners
Why choose AKG Learning?
Training should do more than deliver a qualification. It should give learners confidence, support employers, and create lasting opportunities.
At AKG Learning, we collaborate with employers to ensure our programmes reflect the skills the sector needs today and in the future. Our experienced Tutors provide personalised support throughout every learner’s journey, helping individuals achieve their goals while supporting organisations to build stronger, more skilled teams.
With AKG Learning you’ll receive:
- Employer-informed training
- Flexible learning options
- Experienced, approachable Tutors
- Nationally recognised qualifications
- Personal learner support
- A trusted partner committed to developing London’s workforce.
Why London Talent Pathways?
The London Talent Pathways Programme has been developed to help more Londoners gain the skills employers need, creating clear pathways into rewarding careers while supporting employers to develop a skilled, sustainable workforce.
At AKG Learning, we’re proud to play our part by delivering training that is:
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's for Employers
Why should I invest in training for my team? – Investing in your workforce builds confidence, strengthens knowledge and improves staff retention. Upskilling your team in equips them with the skills and understanding to better support children and young people with additional needs, enabling your organisation to deliver more inclusive, high-quality services. It also demonstrates your commitment to professional development and continuous improvement.
Do my employees need to take time off work? – Most of our workforce development programmes are delivered online and designed to fit around work commitments. Learners will need dedicated time to attend scheduled virtual teaching sessions, and some additional independent study will also be required.
Which staff members are eligible? – Learners must be aged 19 or over and have a London postcode. Additional funding criteria apply, and our team will be happy to discuss eligibility with you. Employed learners must also be earning less than £28,860 (£14.80 per hour) to qualify for the programme. If you are unsure whether you qualify, our Sales Team would be happy to help you. We may be able to signpost you to alternative provision.
Can you help me choose the right courses for my staff? – Absolutely. We’ll work with you to understand your organisation’s needs and recommend training that supports your workforce development goals.
Are the qualifications nationally recognised? – Yes. Our programmes lead to recognised qualifications that support professional development and career progression within the Early Years sector.
How long do the courses take? – Course lengths vary depending on the qualification, ranging from one-week introductory programmes to longer professional qualifications. Full details are provided on each course page.
Why choose AKG Learning? – We’re more than a training provider. We’re a workforce development partner, working alongside employers to help address skills gaps, develop confident practitioners and create clear pathways for career progression.
How do we get started? – Contact our team to discuss your organisation’s requirements. We’ll explain the available programmes, confirm eligibility and help you identify the most suitable training for your staff.
Why has this training been funded? – These courses are funded through the Greater London Authority’s London Talent Pathways programme, which has been developed to help address skills shortages, support career progression and strengthen London’s workforce in priority sectors, including Early Years.
How much do these courses cost? – There is no cost to eligible learners or their employer. These courses are fully funded through the Greater London Authority’s London Talent Pathways Programme, subject to eligibility criteria. If you’re unsure whether your staff are eligible, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to advise.
FAQ's for unemployed learners
Am I eligible? – To be eligible, you must be aged 19 or over and have a London postcode. Additional eligibility criteria apply depending on the course. You can download our full eligibility guide or contact us to discuss your circumstances.
I’m looking for work. Which course is right for me? – If you’re looking to start a career in Early Years, our introductory face-to-face programmes are designed to give you the skills, knowledge and confidence to take your first steps into the sector. Our team can help you choose the most suitable course.
Do I need any previous experience? – No. Many of our courses are designed for people who are new to Early Years or looking for a career change. We’ll support you throughout your learning journey.
How are the courses delivered? – Delivery depends on the course. Some programmes are delivered face-to-face, while others are delivered online through live, tutor-led virtual sessions. Our online courses are not self-study, giving learners the opportunity to interact with tutors and fellow participants while benefiting from the flexibility of learning remotely.
Will I receive a qualification? – Yes. All of our programmes lead to nationally recognised qualifications that can support your career progression within the Early Years sector.
Will completing a course guarantee me a job? – While we can’t guarantee employment, our courses are designed around the skills employers are looking for. They provide a strong foundation for progressing into employment or further study.
Do I have to pay for the course? – There is no cost to eligible learners as these courses are fully funded through the Greater London Authority’s London Talent Pathways Programme, subject to eligibility criteria. If you’re unsure whether you are eligible, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to advise.
How do I apply? – Simply complete our enquiry form or contact the AKG Learning team. We’ll discuss your goals, check your eligibility and guide you through the next steps.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re looking to begin a career in Early Years, develop your existing skills or strengthen your workforce, AKG Learning can help. Our team is ready to discuss your options and help you find the right programme.
Telephone: 0333 242 2222
Email: glatalentpathway@akguk.co.uk
