Early Years Educator Level 3 Course in Southwark. Classes run at Southwark Adult Learning Service, part-time during the day. The course takes 9 months and covers working with babies and young children from birth to 5 years old. 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 roles. Level 3 Early Years Educator is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work.
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 understand how babies and young children develop from birth to five years.
You'll learn how to plan and support play and learning activities.
You'll know how to keep children safe and follow safeguarding procedures.
You'll develop skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
You'll learn how to work in partnership with parents and carers.
You'll understand health, wellbeing, and nutrition for young children.
You'll learn how to support children with additional needs.
You'll work toward Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English if you don't already hold GCSE grade 4 or above.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Southwark Adult Learning Service. Assessment includes written assignments, observations in an early years setting, and a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your practice. You'll need access to a placement with babies or young children to complete the practical elements of the qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Southwark Adult Learning Service will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged birth to five in a nursery setting.
Nursery nurse: supporting children's development in day nurseries or children's centres.
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in Reception or pre-school classes.
Childminder: registered self-employed care for children in a home setting.
Playgroup worker: leading or supporting sessions in community play settings.
Room leader: taking responsibility for a room or age group within a nursery.
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or Early Years: moves you toward senior and management roles in early years settings.
Early Childhood Studies degree (BA): a university route deepening your understanding of child development and policy.
Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT): the route to becoming a qualified Early Years Teacher with graduate status, recognised in Ofsted inspections.
