About the course
The Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator) prepares learners to become Early Years Educators, enabling them to work with children from birth to 5 years and gain knowledge of children aged 5 to 7 years. Upon achievement of this qualification it is intended that learners will be able to enter the workforce as Early Years Educators. Learners can progress into various job roles in the statutory, voluntary or private sectors such as:
• Assistant in Children's Centres
• Practitioner in nursery schools
• Practitioner in reception classes in primary schools
• Pre-school worker
We have structured the units around three themes:• Theme 1: Health and well-being
• Theme 2: Legislation, frameworks and professional practice
• Theme 3: Play, development and learning for school readiness
This course provides learners with the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded professionals from a variety of early years settings, exchange experiences, and share best practices.
To successfully complete this qualification, you must be employed, volunteering, or undertaking a practical placement in a real work environment (RWE) for a minimum of 16 hours per week, allowing you to demonstrate both knowledge and skill competency.
Entry requirements
It is a government requirement that all Level 3 learners must possess a GCSE English (Language) & Maths A-C grade or Level 2 Functional Skills equivalent. As an adult learner it is your responsibility to ensure you have this in place before seeking employment at L3 at the end of your qualification.
Learners should be at least 19 years of age with a good understanding of written and spoken English.
Minimum 16 hours a week volunteering or working in an Early Years setting i.e Nursery, pre-school or Reception class.
Following application a tutor from the Early Years team will contact you to arrange an interview to discuss your options.
How much does it cost?
Free limited spaces available on this course as part of the Government's Levelling Up initiative. Click here to check if you’re eligible.
The fee for this course is: £2,882
This course is free for people who are unemployed or earn less than £25,000
This Level 3 course is part of Free Courses for Jobs initiative and is fully funded for eligible learners. Click here to check if you’re eligible.
Funding is available for this course to any adult aged 24 and over who wants to achieve their first full level 3 qualification, which is equivalent to an advanced technical certificate or diploma, or two full A levels. 19 to 23 year olds will continue to be eligible for their first full level 3 via the adult education budget, and for any additional qualifications made available through this offer.
You may be entitled to an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the cost of this course.
Contact Us or call 01279 868100 to get the most up-to-date info on fees and the financial support that may be available.
Who is it suitable for?
You do not need to be in paid employment but you should be volunteering in an early years setting for approximately 8 hours per week in a supervised assisting role as a key worker for at least 1 child.
Awarding Body
NCFE/CACHE
Where will this course take me?
You can progress to the Higher National Certificates and Diploma in Early Years at levels 4/5, progressing on to a BA Hons at level 6 or into employment.
Core modules
- Health & Wellbeing
- Safeguarding
- Equality & Diversity
- Health & Safety
- Working in Partnership
- Professional Development
- Value of Play
- Transitions & Child Development
- A child study
How will I be assessed?
- Written assignments
- posters
- leaflets of knowledge
- direct observations showing practical understanding
Will I have to provide anything?
Responsible for applying for your own Disclosure & Barring Service checks with your employer.
Textbook, lever arch folder & dividers.
I'm interested. What should I do now?
Call 01279 868100 and talk to an Admissions Adviser
Ask Us a question about this course