Free Level 3 Children's Learning and Development (Early Years Educator) Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You study while working in a supervisory role, building knowledge and skills alongside your day-to-day responsibilities. The Pearson Edexcel children's learning and development qualification covers working with children and young people from birth to 19 years, across three pathways: Early Learning and Childcare, Children's Social Care, and Learning and Development Support Services. You'll need GCSEs at grades A* - C in English and Maths to apply. The course typically takes 12 months.
Who this course is for
This qualification is designed to help learners build the knowledge and skills needed when working with children and young people from birth to 19 years. It covers a diverse range of job roles and occupational areas. It is split into three pathways, Early Learning and Childcare, Children's Social Care and Learning and Development Support Services.
In addition it contains an optional unit 'Understand how to set up a home based child care service' which can also be taken as a standalone unit for those who wish to become registered childminders.
It is the only QCF Level 3 qualification conferring occupational competence for the Children and Young People's Workforce in England.
Learners should be at least 16 years old and currently working or on practical placement as they need to show competence in both knowledge and skills. It is suitable for all those who wish to work or are working in a supervising role in the Children and Young People's workforce in England.
Entry requirements
Applicants must have achieved GCSEs grades A*-C in English and Maths and be in a supervisory role within their workplace.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of how children and young people learn and develop from birth to 19 years.
You'll build skills in planning and supporting learning activities across different age groups.
You'll understand how to observe, assess, and record children's progress.
You'll learn how to safeguard children and promote their health, safety, and wellbeing.
You'll explore how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll study the principles of inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.
You'll gain an understanding of how to set up and manage a home-based childcare service (optional unit).
How you will learn
Training takes place in your workplace. You'll build a portfolio of evidence drawn from your day-to-day practice, supported by observations carried out in your setting. Assessment is ongoing throughout the 12 months and is linked directly to your job role. You'll also complete written assignments and knowledge-based tasks. A workplace assessor will visit to observe you and review your evidence.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. E-Training will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children in a nursery or pre-school setting.
Room leader: supervising a room or age-group within an early years setting.
Early years educator: counted in statutory staffing ratios at Level 3.
Childminder: running a registered home-based childcare service.
Children's social care worker: supporting children and families in a social care setting.
Learning support assistant: supporting children's development in a school or specialist setting.
Family support worker: working with families through early intervention services.
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or a Foundation Degree in Early Years: moves you toward senior practitioner or management roles.
Early Childhood Studies degree: a full undergraduate route for those wanting to specialise further or move into advisory or policy roles.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: useful if you want to move into training or mentoring others in childcare settings.
