Free Early Years Educator Level 3 Course. Study online. You can work through this level 3 early years educator course at your own pace, fitting study around work, family, or other commitments. The course covers child development, safeguarding, communication, and planning for children's learning from birth to five years. It takes around 24 months to complete. Level 3 Early Years Educator is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work in England, making it a significant step for anyone working or planning to work in early years settings. Learners must be aged 19 or over to enrol.
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 development.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support children's learning and development.
You'll know how to keep children safe, including safeguarding responsibilities and health and safety in early years settings.
You'll develop skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
You'll understand how to support children's communication, language, and literacy.
You'll learn how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll understand equality, diversity, and inclusion in early years practice.
How you will learn
You'll study online, working through course materials at your own pace. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice in an early years setting, and a portfolio of evidence. Some units require you to demonstrate practical competence with children, so you will need access to a suitable early years placement or workplace setting during the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Northallerton Adult Learning and Skills Service will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working directly with children in a nursery setting
Room leader: leading a room or age-group within a nursery
Key person: holding key-worker responsibility for a group of children
Childminder: running your own registered childminding provision
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in a school reception class
Pre-school worker: working in a community or sessional pre-school setting
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People's Services: moves you toward senior or management roles in early years settings.
Early Childhood Studies degree: a university-level 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-level recognition in early years.
