A vocational qualification designed to train individuals to work professionally with children from birth to five years old, with foundational knowledge extending up to seven years.

• focus on the study of early years education
• offer breadth and depth of study, incorporating a key core of knowledge
• provide opportunities to acquire a number of practical and technical skills

• Overview

  This qualifications is designed for learners preparing to become early years educators, enabling them to work with children from birth to five years and gain knowledge of children aged five to seven years.

• Who is this course for?

  16-19 year olds

  For those wanting to build a career in early years and education.

• Entry Requirements

  Most applicants will need a minimum of 4 GCSE’s at Grade 4 or above including Maths or English. All candidates must be committed to working with young children and their families, be creative, energetic, and a passion for learning and development.

  To work with children (under 18) or vulnerable adults, students may need to complete an enhanced check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly CRB) The college will arrange this for you but if your course is not fully funded (i.e. you are aged 16-18 or on certain benefits) then you will have to pay. The estimated cost of the DBS check is £54. Full details regarding payment documents will be provided prior to enrolment.

• Units/Modules

  To be awarded this qualification, learners are required to achieve 10 mandatory units/95 credits from units EYE L3 WF 1 to 10.

  This qualification requires learners to complete a minimum of 300 hours of mandatory work/industry placement experience throughout the duration of the qualification, before certification. However, it is recommended that learners undertake 350 hours where possible.

• Benefits/Skills

  Skills:

  • Child Development: Understanding physical, cognitive, and social milestones from birth to age 7.
  • Play-Based Learning: Designing and delivering EYFS-aligned curriculum activities through play.
  • Safeguarding & Safety: Identifying risks, enforcing child protection policies, and maintaining health standards.
  • Observation & Planning: Assessing children's progress to plan tailored next steps for learning.
  • Inclusive Practice: Supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
  • Professional Communication: Collaborating effectively with children, parents, and multi-agency specialists.

  Benefits:

  • Hands-on Placement: Mandatory 300–350 placement hours in an early years environment to build real-world experience.
  • University Gateway: Earns up to 32 UCAS points toward Foundation Degrees, Early Childhood degrees, or Primary Teacher Training.
  • Versatile Career Path: Qualifies you for roles like Early Years Educator, Nursery Room Leader, Reception Assistant, or Professional Nanny. Work towards achieving your Full License to Practice that meets DfE "Full and Relevant" criteria to count in required staff-to-child ratios in regulated settings.

• Careers/Progression

  Learners who achieve these qualifications could progress to the following:

  Employment:

  • educator in day nurseries
  • educator in nursery schools
  • educator in reception classes in primary schools
  • pre-school worker

  Further education:

  • level 4 or level 5 early years and childcare qualifications

  Higher education:

  • personal statements may be accepted by universities