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
Learners should be at least 19 years of age and have a Level 2 childcare qualification plus GCSE at 4 or above or equivalent in English & Maths.
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?
The cost of this course is £4670
Funding Checker
This funding checker will tell you if this course may be free or part-funded. Part-funded means you only pay for part of the course.
Contact Us or call our Admissions Team 01279 868100 to get the most up-to-date info on fees and the financial support that may be available to you. Please note: all information is accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change
Free Courses for Jobs ✓
This Level 3 course is part of the Free Courses for Jobs initiative and is fully-funded (free) for eligible learners aged 19 or over and:
- In paid employment and earn below £25,000
- or are unemployed, looking for work and in receipt of benefits (means tested)
Advanced Learner Loan ✓
The course can also be fully-funded through an Advanced Learner Loan.
Click here to find out more about Advanced Learner Loans
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