Free Level 3 Childcare and Education Course in Rotherham. Classes run at Rotherham College. This full-time daytime childcare and education qualification takes one year to complete. You'll study child development, safeguarding, and early years practice, building the knowledge and skills that nurseries and early years settings look for. The course meets the requirements for the Early Years Educator role, which counts toward statutory staffing ratios in early years settings. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you.
Who this course is for
The course is designed for entrants to roles in which they want to develop their skills, progression and/or career opportunities in this field or area. Please see the RNN Group course website for further information and advice.
What you will learn
You'll understand how children develop from birth to five years and beyond.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support children's learning and development.
You'll study safeguarding principles and how to keep children safe.
You'll explore how to support children's communication, language, and literacy.
You'll learn about inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.
You'll understand the legal and regulatory framework for early years settings.
You'll develop skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Rotherham College, combining taught lessons with practical activities. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice, and professional discussions. You'll build a portfolio of evidence throughout the year to demonstrate your competence across the qualification's units.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Rotherham College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery Practitioner: work directly with children in a nursery setting.
Early Years Educator: qualified role counting toward statutory staffing ratios.
Nursery Room Leader: lead a room team in a day nursery.
Pre-school Assistant: support children's learning in a pre-school.
Childminder: run your own registered childcare from home.
Teaching Assistant (Early Years): support learning in a Reception class.
Family Support Worker: work with families in community or local authority settings.
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or Early Years: moves you toward senior practitioner or management roles in early years settings.
Early Childhood Studies Degree (BA): a university-level route for those wanting to specialise further or move into advisory, research, or leadership roles.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): a postgraduate route for those aiming to lead practice as a qualified teacher in early years.
