Early Years Educator Level 3 Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You study while working with babies and young children, putting your learning into practice from day one. The course takes 15 months and covers child development, safeguarding, communication, and planning activities for children from birth to 5 years. If you don't already hold GCSE maths and English at grade 4 or above, you'll work toward Functional Skills Level 2 in both subjects as part of the course. This is a requirement for Level 3 early years staff.
Who this course is for
This course is for anyone aged 16+ who is working or would like to work with babies and young children from birth to 5 years. It will prepare you to enter employment or you could use it as a stepping stone to higher education courses. Working with young children is challenging and requires sensitivity, patience and the ability to work well with others.
Entry requirements
You must be at least 16 years old. If you don't already hold GCSE maths and English qualifications at grade 4 (C) or above you will work towards the equivalent Functional Skills Level 2 qualification during the course as this is a requirement for Level 3 Early Years staff.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to 5 years.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support children's learning and development.
You'll understand safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.
You'll practise effective communication with children, families, and colleagues.
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress.
You'll understand health, safety, and welfare requirements in early years settings.
You'll develop skills in supporting children's speech, language, and communication.
How you will learn
Training takes place in your workplace, so you apply your learning directly with the children and families you work with. Assessment includes observations of your practice in the setting, a portfolio of evidence, and written assignments. You'll also complete Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English if you don't already hold GCSE grade 4 or above in both subjects.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. AKG Learning will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged birth to 5 in a nursery
Room leader: leading a room within a nursery setting
Key person: holding responsibility for a group of key children
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in a Reception class
Childminder: registered self-employed care for young children
Family support worker: working with families and young children in the community
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood: suitable if you want to move into a senior or leadership role in an early years setting.
Early Childhood Studies degree: a full undergraduate route for those considering teaching or specialist early years work.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for those who want to lead practice and work toward qualified teacher-equivalent status in early years.
