Pathway to Trainee Infant and Early Years Practitioners (IEYP)

About the job

Key information

Join Our Early Years Mental Health and Wellbeing Team – Pathway to Trainee Infant and Early Years Practitioners (IEYP)

Start with Young Somerset in September 2026 and begin university training in January 2027

• Salary & Hours: September–January: £26,138 per annum, From January 2027 (Trainee Salary): £27,675 per annum
• Hours: 37 hours per week
• Location: Whilst there is an expectation to work across Somerset when required, this role will be predominantly based in Yeovil and South Somerset.

If you’re looking to start a meaningful career supporting young children and families, we’d love to hear from you.

“Since joining Young Somerset in January, I have been made to feel welcome and have settled in well. Everyone I have met has been so helpful and supportive as I transition into my new role. I have had excellent line management and supervision that have aided my learning. The course is interesting and theoretical, which I love, and it challenges your thinking around parenting, mental health and early years development. I feel it has expanded my skills and knowledge from my previous role, and I really love the work I have been doing with families, particularly when you can see the difference it is making to their lives in those eureka moments.” Kelly, Trainee IEYP

What will I be doing?

Are you passionate about supporting children and families?

This is an exciting opportunity to join Young Somerset’s Early Years Mental Health and Wellbeing Team and begin a rewarding career in early intervention and mental health.

Starting in September 2026, you will gain hands-on experience working with children aged 0–5 and their families across homes, early years settings, and community venues. You’ll work alongside experienced practitioners, building your skills and confidence before starting fully funded university training with Exeter University in January 2027.

You will support the delivery of early years mental health and wellbeing interventions, helping families strengthen relationships, improve wellbeing, and promote healthy attachment. The role includes contributing to parenting programmes, group work, and early years initiatives such as Early Years Explorers and the Transition Programme.

Training & Development

• Join Young Somerset in September 2026
• Begin fully funded Exeter University training in January 2027
• Attend hybrid university study days
• Apply your learning directly in practice
• Receive supervision, reflective practice, and ongoing development support

What is in it for me?

• Work for Somerset’s leading VCSE youth and mental health organisation
• Be part of an innovative and supportive multidisciplinary team
• Make a real difference to children and families
• Access excellent development and progression opportunities
• Gain valuable experience alongside fully funded professional training

DBS check

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check. 

Supporting documents and information

Please read the Trainee IEYP Job Description 

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact: wellbeing@youngsomerset.org.uk

To apply, complete the YS Application Form and YS Disability Questionnaire and email to people@youngsomerset.org.uk.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if suitable candidates are found so would encourage you to apply at your earliest convenience.

Closing date: 17 July 2026

Anticipated interview date: 29 July 2026

To discover more about working for Young Somerset, click here

Apply on the Young Somerset website

Apply now