Level 3 Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator)

Course Overview

This qualification prepares you to work as an Early Years Educator, supporting children’s learning and development from birth to five years, while also developing your knowledge of children aged five to seven years. As part of the course, you will complete 300 hours of mandatory placement in an early years setting, where you will collect evidence to support your studies. When you successfully complete the qualification, you will be able to enter the workforce as an Early Years Educator.

What You Will Study

To achieve the qualification, you must complete 10 mandatory units, covering the key skills and knowledge needed in the early years sector:

• Introduction to the Role of the Early Years Educator

• Holistic Child Development

• Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

• Effective Communication in an Early Years Setting

• Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements

• Health, Wellbeing and Safety

• Promoting an Effective Early Years Curriculum

• Assessment of Children’s Learning and Development

• Understanding Play for Learning and Holistic Development

• Partnership Working

• Attendance Expectations

  Learning will take place one day per week in the classroom, one early evening session online, and within an early years setting. You are expected to attend all sessions both face to face and online and attend 12 hours of placement per week.

• How You Will Be Assessed

  Learners will complete a portfolio of evidence alongside continuous assessment which includes written tasks and activities, case studies and project work and observations in placement.

• Entry Requirements

  GCSE English at Grade 4 or above or Functional Skills Level 2 in English

• Fee Information

  If you are 19 or over and do not already have a Level 3 qualification or higher, you may be able to access this qualification for free with us. If you are not eligible for a free Level 3 course, an Advanced Learner Loan may be available to cover your course fees.

• Further Study

  • Educator in day nurseries

  • Educator in nursery schools

  • Educator in reception classes in primary schools

  • Pre-school worker
    

    
    Further education:

  • NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner Higher education Degree