The free early years training, aimed at upskilling adults already working in childcare, will be delivered across West Yorkshire by Realise, the largest provider of early years training in England.
Karen Derbyshire, director of early years at Realise, said: “We are delighted to secure this contract to deliver exciting programmes in West Yorkshire, giving people the opportunity to upskill and progress with their careers.
“As we know, there is a significant shortage of early years staff and a real need to bring new people into the industry.
“Investment like this in the sector helps people to build new opportunities.”
Funded through the Adult Skills Fund, the Level 2 and Level 3 Early Years Diplomas are available to those who are 19 and already working within a nursery setting.
Training options include Level 2 and Level 3 Early Years Diplomas, as well as short courses including Principles of Leadership and Management, Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring and SEN Coordinator (SENCO) in Early Years.
In addition to West Yorkshire, Realise will also deliver funded training in Liverpool, Greater Manchester, and South Yorkshire.
Currently, the organisation supports nearly 3,000 early years learners across the UK through apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, and other training programmes.