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Free Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Solihull

CostFREE
Duration1 year
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 (Early Years Educator) Course in Solihull. Classes run at Solihull College and University Centre, full-time during the day. This one-year programme builds on the Level 3 Certificate in Childcare and Education, taking you to the full Diploma level. You'll study all aspects of child development and the practitioner's role, including supporting early literacy, early mathematics, and school readiness. A grade C/4 in English Language is required to work as an Early Years Educator; English and maths can be studied alongside the course if needed. The course carries up to 168 UCAS points, so it also opens a route into higher education.

Who this course is for

CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator) is offered as a one year programme on completion of the Level 3 Certificate. The full Diploma enables you to enter the workforce as an Early Years Educator or access Higher Education. The course carries a maximum of 168 UCAS points (A* grade)

You will study all aspects of children in education and the role of the practitioner: -Supporting emergent literacy -Supporting emergent mathematics -Preparing for school readiness -International perspectives -Reflective practice -Professional partnerships in early years -Professional Practice Portfolio

Entry requirements

Cache Level 3 Certificate in Childcare and Education Desirable - Grade C/4 English Language; Grade D/3 Mathematics (or equivalent) NB: English Language and Mathematics can be taken alongside your main programme. However, if a C/4 Grade is not achieved you will not gain employment as an Early years Educator. You must be aged 19+ to enrol on this course.

What you will learn

  • You'll study how to support children's emergent literacy skills.
  • You'll explore how to support children's early mathematical development.
  • You'll learn how to prepare children for school readiness.
  • You'll develop your understanding of child development across the early years.
  • You'll examine the role and responsibilities of the Early Years Educator.
  • You'll study safeguarding, welfare, and the legal frameworks that protect children.
  • You'll build knowledge of inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.

How you will learn

Learning takes place in the classroom at Solihull College and University Centre. Assessment is through a combination of coursework, observations in practice settings, and written assignments. You'll build a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your competence across the units. Practical placements form part of the programme, giving you direct experience working with children in an early years setting.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Solihull College and University Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery practitioner: working directly with children aged 0 to 5
  • Room leader: leading a room in a nursery or pre-school setting
  • Early years educator: qualified role in statutory staffing ratios
  • Nursery nurse: supporting children's care and learning day to day
  • Pre-school assistant: supporting learning in a pre-school environment
  • Childminder: registered self-employed childcare for young children
  • Teaching assistant (early years): supporting reception-age children in school

What you could study next

  • Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies: a higher education route, supported by the 168 UCAS points this Diploma carries.
  • BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education: full degree for those wanting to move into leadership or specialist roles.
  • Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for the Early Years Profession: for practitioners moving into management or senior practitioner roles in nursery settings.
  • Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): a postgraduate route for those aiming to lead practice across the early years.
Apply on solihull.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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