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Free Level 3 Childcare Course in Stratford-upon-Avon

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Childcare and Education Course in Stratford-upon-Avon. Classes run at Stratford-upon-Avon College, full-time during the day. To apply, you'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and maths, or a relevant Level 2 qualification with English and maths. A DBS check, interview, and satisfactory references are also required. The course takes two years and covers child development, safeguarding, learning environments, and professional practice in early years settings. It meets the requirements for the Early Years Educator role recognised in nursery staffing ratios.

Who this course is for

Are you considering a career working with young children? Would you like a job where you can make a real difference to children's lives? If you choose to work in childcare, early years or teaching you will be playing a crucial role in shaping the lives of our future generations. This course allows you to progress onto University degrees and Higher Education based on UCAS points achieved.

Study for a career to be proud of with the NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Certificate/Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator). This will help you turn your dream job into reality. The course offers you the knowledge and practical skills needed for working within the early years sector. Successful completion of the Diploma allows you to progress onto University degrees and Higher Education based on UCAS points achieved.

Entry requirements

Applicants must have 4 GCSEs (Grade 4/5) including English Language and maths. Alternatively, you will be considered if you have achieved a relevant Level 2 qualification along with English and maths. Entry is subject to a satisfactory reference and interview. Entry decisions will be discretionary at interview. You will also need to complete a DBS check, attend an interview and provide satisfactory references.

What you will learn

  • You'll study child development from birth through to age five and beyond.
  • You'll learn how to plan and support play, learning, and care activities.
  • You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
  • You'll explore how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
  • You'll develop knowledge of inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.
  • You'll learn about health, wellbeing, and nutrition in early years settings.
  • You'll build professional skills through practical placement in a childcare setting.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Stratford-upon-Avon College alongside practical work placements in early years settings. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice in placement, and a portfolio of evidence. You'll be assessed against the NCFE CACHE standards throughout the two years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Stratford-upon-Avon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery practitioner: working with children aged 0 to 5 in a nursery
  • Room leader: leading a room within a nursery or early years setting
  • Childminder: providing registered childcare in a home setting
  • Teaching assistant: supporting children in a primary school classroom
  • Early years keyworker: building relationships with a small group of children
  • Playgroup or pre-school worker: supporting learning in community settings

What you could study next

  • Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies: a work-based higher education route, often studied part-time alongside employment in an early years setting.
  • BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education: a full degree that can lead to further roles in education leadership or specialist practice. This course earns UCAS points, so you can apply directly to university on completion.
  • Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for those who want to lead practice and specialise in the early years age range.
Apply on stratford.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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