Free Early Years Educator Level 3 Course in Harrogate. Evening classes run at Harrogate Civic Centre, so you can fit study around your existing commitments. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you. The course covers child development, safeguarding, learning through play, and supporting children from birth to five. It takes 24 months part-time. Level 3 Early Years Educator is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work in England. You must be 19 or over to be eligible for funding.
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 understand how children develop from birth to five years, including physical, cognitive, and emotional milestones.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver play-based activities that support early learning.
You'll know how to keep children safe, including safeguarding procedures and health and safety responsibilities.
You'll support children's communication, language, and literacy development.
You'll work with parents and carers to share information about a child's progress.
You'll understand the legal and statutory frameworks that govern early years settings in England.
You'll observe and assess children's development to inform your practice.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in the classroom at Harrogate Civic Centre during evening sessions. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice with children, and a portfolio of evidence. You will also complete a period of practical work placement in an early years setting, which is a requirement of the qualification. Some self-directed study will be expected between sessions.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Harrogate Civic Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working directly with children aged 0 to 5
Room leader: leading a room in a nursery or pre-school setting
Key person: taking responsibility for a small group of children's welfare
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in Reception or pre-school
Childminder: running your own registered childcare from home
Family support worker: helping families access early years services
What you could study next
Early Childhood Studies degree (BA): for those wanting to move into management, advisory, or specialist roles in early years.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for the Early Years Profession: develops the skills to lead and manage an early years setting.
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) via an Early Years Initial Teacher Training route: for those who want to teach in a school or lead as an Early Years Teacher.
