Free Level 3 Childcare Course in Sheffield – The Sheffield College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Childcare and Education Course in Sheffield. Classes run at The Sheffield College. This full-time daytime childcare and education qualification covers child development, safeguarding, learning environments, and working with families. You'll study for one year, gaining the knowledge and practical skills needed to work as a nursery practitioner. The level 3 childcare and education classes are delivered across The Sheffield College's campuses in Sheffield. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you.

Who this course is for

The Sheffield College is a thriving further education college situated in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. We have 4 main campuses across the city, including our City Campus, Hillsborough Campus, Olive Grove Campus and Peaks Campus. We offer a wide range of Apprenticeships, vocational courses, A Levels, professional courses and university level courses. Please go to our website www.sheffcol.ac.uk for full details.

Entry requirements

Please check our website for the most up-to-date entry requirement for this course.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore child development from birth through to age five and beyond.
  • You'll learn how to plan and support play and learning activities.
  • You'll understand safeguarding legislation and how to keep children safe.
  • You'll study how to observe and assess children's progress.
  • You'll learn about working in partnership with parents and carers.
  • You'll develop knowledge of inclusive practice and supporting children with additional needs.
  • You'll understand health, safety, and welfare requirements in early years settings.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at The Sheffield College. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of practice, and knowledge-based tasks. You'll build a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your understanding and skills across the qualification units. The course is full-time and runs during daytime hours across the academic year.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Sheffield College 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.
  • Nursery nurse: supporting children's daily care and learning.
  • Early years educator: planning and delivering activities in early years settings.
  • Childcare worker: providing care and support in day nurseries or crèches.
  • Teaching assistant (early years): supporting children in reception or pre-school classes.
  • Playgroup leader: running structured play sessions for young children.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Early Years Educator Diploma: deepens your practice and is recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Early Years Advanced Practice: moves you toward a senior or specialist role in early years settings.
  • Early Childhood Studies Degree (Level 6): for those looking to move into management, research, or teaching roles in the sector.

Related courses at The Sheffield College

More courses near you