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Free Level 3 Childcare Course in Clacton-on-Sea – Clacton Coastal Academy

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Childcare and Education Course in Clacton-on-Sea. Classes run at Clacton Coastal Academy. This full-time, daytime childcare and education qualification takes two years to complete. You'll build the skills and knowledge needed to work in the early years sector, including 750 hours of work placement across the course. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade C in Childcare. A DBS check is completed before placement begins.

Who this course is for

This course enables the learner to gain a variety of skills, knowledge and understanding to leave CCA with a qualification that gives them license to practice in the early years sector.

This is a coursework based qualification where high expectations and dedication is needed.

There will be a compulsory 750 hours of work placement and all students will complete a DBS (police check) prior to being able to start the course.

Entry requirements

5 Grade 4+, including a C in Childcare.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years and beyond.
  • You'll learn how to plan and support play and learning activities for young children.
  • You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
  • You'll apply health, safety, and welfare practices in early years settings.
  • You'll build skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
  • You'll gain hands-on experience through 750 hours of supervised work placement.

How you will learn

This is a coursework-based qualification. You'll complete written assignments and practical tasks throughout the two years. Assessment is ongoing, with high expectations for dedication and independent work. Your 750 hours of work placement are a compulsory part of the course, giving you direct experience in early years settings alongside your classroom study at Clacton Coastal Academy.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Clacton Coastal Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to complete a DBS (police check) before your work placement begins - the centre will guide you through this process.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery practitioner: how to become a nursery practitioner in a day nursery or pre-school.
  • Nursery nurse: supporting children's care and learning in nursery settings.
  • Early years educator: working with children from birth to five in registered settings.
  • Childcare worker: assisting with daily care and activities in childcare settings.
  • Teaching assistant (early years): supporting reception-age children in primary schools.
  • Playworker: leading play sessions in after-school clubs or holiday schemes.

What you could study next

This Level 3 Award is a step into the early years sector. To meet the staffing ratio requirements for a qualified early years educator role in England, you may need to progress to a full Level 3 Early Years Educator Diploma recognised by the Department for Education. From there, a Level 4 or Level 5 qualification in Early Years Leadership or Management opens senior and room-leader roles. A degree in Early Childhood Studies or Education can lead to teaching or specialist practitioner careers.

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