Early years, childcare and play workers in the South Wales Valleys will be supported to boost their skills and formal qualifications through a new £6.3 million Welsh Government programme.
Of the funding, £4.2m will come from the EU, with the remainder paid for by the Welsh Government.
Education Minister Huw Lewis said: “I am delighted that we have now secured EU funding for our Progress for Success programme.
“This will mean that childcare and play workers in North, West Wales and the Valleys will be able to access new skills and qualifications that will enhance their ability to do their jobs.
“Like teachers, childcare and play workers have a key role to play in developing the social and cognitive skills of our children and helping them to reach their full potential.
“Progress for Success will ensure that our practitioners have the skills and qualifications they need to deliver for our youngest children.”
Communities and Tackling Poverty Minister, Lesley Griffiths, said: “Children’s early years are vital to their future development, which is why we are committed to ensuring they get the very best start in life.
“Our Progress for Success programme will not only give early education, childcare and play practitioners fantastic professional development opportunities, but also in turn ensure children get the support they need to thrive.”