Free Early Years Educator Level 3 Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You train while working with babies and young children from birth to five years, putting your learning into practice every day. The course typically takes 15 months. If you don't already hold GCSE maths and English at grade 4 (C) 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. The level 3 early years educator qualification is 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 develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support children's learning and development.
You'll understand how to observe and assess children's progress.
You'll learn how to safeguard children and promote their welfare.
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 health, safety, and nutrition in early years settings.
How you will learn
You learn on the job, applying skills directly in your workplace with babies and young children. Assessment includes observations of your practice in the setting, written assignments, and professional discussions. You'll build a portfolio of evidence showing your competence across the qualification. If you need Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English, these are assessed separately through written tests.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Shoots Training will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children from birth to five in a nursery setting.
Room leader: leading a room or age-group team within a nursery.
Key person: holding lead responsibility for a group of children's development.
Childminder: running your own registered childcare provision.
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in a school Reception class.
Family support worker: working with families and young children in community settings.
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or Early Years: moves you toward senior or management roles in early years settings.
Early Childhood Studies degree (BA): a full undergraduate route for those wanting to deepen their understanding of child development and policy.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for those who want to lead practice and work toward qualified teacher recognition in early years.
