Free Level 3 Childcare and Education Course in Portsmouth. Classes run at COPC Highbury Campus, full-time during the day. You'll study the care, education, and development of young children, covering both theory and hands-on practice. The course runs over two years and includes a minimum of 750 hours in placement across at least three different settings. You'll need four GCSEs at grade A - C, including English Language or Maths, and a satisfactory DBS check to enrol. This level 3 childcare and education qualification opens the door to roles in nurseries, schools, and early years settings.
Who this course is for
This is an interesting and exciting course that will provide practical and theoretical training in the care, education and development of young children that provides access to a range of fascinating careers. This course will deliver a sound foundation of knowledge within the early year's sector.
Over the course of this two year programme you will complete a range of assignments, a research project and a minimum of 750 hours in placement. Placement will be in at least three different settings and age ranges and will form the basis of a Practical Evidence Portfolio.
Entry requirements
You will need a minimum of four GCSE's, grade A-C, one of which must be either English Language or Mathematics. A satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth through the early years
You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support children's learning
You'll study safeguarding, child protection, and health and safety in childcare settings
You'll understand how to observe and assess children's progress
You'll explore inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs
You'll complete a research project to deepen your understanding of the early years sector
You'll gain practical experience through placements in a range of childcare settings
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical placements. Assessment includes a range of assignments and a research project completed over the two-year programme. Placement hours, a minimum of 750 across at least three different settings, form a core part of the course. Your classroom learning and placement experience work alongside each other throughout.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. COPC Highbury Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to arrange a satisfactory DBS check before beginning your placements.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: work with children aged 0 - 5 in a nursery setting
Early years educator: qualified role counted in statutory staffing ratios
Nursery nurse: day-to-day care and learning support in nurseries
Childminder: registered self-employed childcare in a home setting
Teaching assistant (early years): support children in Reception and Key Stage 1
Play worker: lead play-based activities in out-of-school clubs or holiday schemes
Family support worker: work with young children and families in community settings
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for the Early Years Sector: moves you toward senior practitioner or room leader roles.
Early Childhood Studies degree: a university route into leadership, research, or specialist early years work.
Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT): qualifies you as an Early Years Teacher, recognised for leading practice with children from birth to five.
