Early Years Educator Level 3 Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You train while working with babies and young children from birth to 5 years old, putting skills into practice from day one. The course typically takes 18 months. 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 the level 3 early years educator qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery and early years settings.
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 how to keep children safe, including safeguarding and welfare requirements.
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress.
You'll develop skills in supporting children's communication, language, and literacy.
You'll understand how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll learn about inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in your workplace, applying skills directly with the children you work with. You'll build a portfolio of evidence from your day-to-day practice. Assessment includes observations of your work, written assignments, and professional discussions with an assessor. If you need Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English, you'll complete those alongside the main qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. FW Solutions 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 setting.
Room leader: leading a room within an early years setting.
Key person: taking lead responsibility for a group of children.
Childminder: self-employed, caring for children in your own home.
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in a Reception class.
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 Early Years: moves you toward a senior or management role in an early years setting.
Early Childhood Studies degree (BA): a full undergraduate route for those wanting to go deeper into child development, policy, or teaching.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for those who want to lead practice and work toward qualified teacher recognition in the early years sector.
