Free Early Years Educator Level 3 Course in Catterick Garrison. Classes run at Catterick Library & Information Centre, part-time during the day over 24 months. You'll have an initial assessment at enrolment to confirm the level is right for you and to plan your learning. The course covers child development, safeguarding, communication, and supporting children's learning from birth to five. Level 3 Early Years Educator is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, making it a genuine step into a career in early years education and care.
Who this course is for
This qualification is suitable for a range of learners, either working or wishing to work in early years education and care. Learners are required to be aged 19 years or over.
Entry requirements
To be eligible for funding for courses you must be over 19 years of age as at 31st August in the current academic year and not be an apprentice, further eligibility may be linked to where you live and we will check that at enrolment stage and may contact
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years
You'll learn how to plan and support children's learning and play
You'll understand safeguarding and child protection responsibilities
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress
You'll develop skills in supporting children's communication and language
You'll understand how to work in partnership with parents and carers
You'll learn about health, wellbeing, and nutrition in early years settings
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Catterick Library & Information Centre. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice in an early years setting, and a portfolio of evidence. You'll need access to a suitable early years placement to complete the practical elements of the qualification. The centre will guide you through both the taught and practice-based parts of the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Catterick Library & Information Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: work in a nursery counted in statutory staff ratios
Room leader: lead a room in a nursery or pre-school setting
Key person: take responsibility for a group of children's development
Pre-school assistant: support learning in a pre-school or playgroup
Childminder: register with Ofsted and work independently with children
Early years teaching assistant: support children in a Reception class
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for the Early Years Profession: moves you toward a senior or management role in an early years setting.
Early Childhood Studies degree: a university route for those wanting to go deeper into child development theory or move into teaching.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for those aiming to lead practice and work toward qualified teacher-level recognition in early years.
