Check an Early Years Qualification Service - Available Now!
Early years managers can now use the new Check an Early Years Qualification digital service to quickly verify whether staff qualifications meet the requirements for staff to child ratios in England.
The new service can be accessed at: Check an Early Years Qualification
This free GOV.UK tool allows managers to check a qualification’s approval status by entering key details such as:
- Course start date
- Level
- Awarding organisation
At the end of the process, a clear outcome is provided, which can be printed for your records.
Why use the new service?
Using the new Check an Early Years Qualification Service:
- Saves time during recruitment and HR processes
- Supports workforce planning ahead of the September 2025 expansion of funded childcare entitlements
- Reduces confusion when checking qualifications
The service is tailored specifically for early years managers. All other user groups (for example practitioners) should continue to use the Early Years Qualifications List (EYQL) to check qualifications, and contact Ecctis if they are unable to find the qualification on the EYQL.
The Check an Early Years Qualification Service is for qualifications achieved in the UK. Holders of non-UK qualifications should continue to contact Ecctis for an assessment.
If you need help using the service you can contact DfE.