Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator) - Level 3 Diploma

This course will prepare you to become an Early Years Educator, enabling you to work with, and care for children from birth to 5 years. You'll also gain knowledge essential to caring for children aged 5 to 7 years.

In addition to completing knowledge and skill-based units, you will complete 350 hours of work experience in an Early Years placement. During your placement, you will complete a longitudinal study and two visits will be made by an assessor to assess your competency.

Topics can include:

• Supporting healthy lifestyles for children through the provision of food and nutrition 
• Supporting healthy lifestyles for children through exercise
• Supporting physical care routines for children  
• Promoting children’s emotional well-being 
• Understanding how to support children who are unwell
• Understanding legislation relating to the safeguarding, protection and welfare of children 
• Using legislation relating to the health and safety of children  
• Engaging in professional development
• Understanding the value of play in Early Years 
• How to plan, lead and review play opportunities which support children’s learning and development 
• Promoting enabling play environments 
• Developing children’s emergent literacy skills 
• Developing children’s emergent mathematical skills  
• Using longitudinal studies to observe, assess and plan for children’s needs

You will need:

• 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths or equivalent Level 2 qualification with Functional Skills at Level 2 in English
• Enhanced DBS Check - we are able to advise you on how to apply for this, but you must pay for this in advance of work placements

All applicants must have an interview to confirm that the course is suitable for them.

Assessment is carried out in the workplace by a qualified assessor and you will also be required to produce a portfolio of evidence.

Adults

Entry Level, Level 1, Level 2
If you will be aged 19 or older on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, your course may be free, depending on your circumstances. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.

This course will help you to move on to higher level courses, such as a Foundation Degree, an apprenticeship or other employment in the sector.