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Free Level 3 Children’s Play, Learning and Development Course in Newcastle upon Tyne – Sacred Heart Catholic High School

CostFREE
Duration24 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Children's Play, Learning and Development Course in Newcastle upon Tyne. Classes run full-time at Sacred Heart Catholic High School during the day. The course takes two years to complete. You'll study how children grow, play and learn, and develop the knowledge to support children under five across a range of early years settings. Entry requires an average point score of 3.5 or more and at least a grade 4 in English Language or Literature. This children's play, learning and development qualification is awarded by Pearson Edexcel.

Who this course is for

The early years sector in England is made up of over 80,000 settings, with 1.3 million childcare places for children under five. This ranges from childminders and nannies, to nurseries, crèches and preschools. Alongside the care provision, the sector has further career paths for students interested in working with children. Degree courses in speech therapy, social work, special education and playworker offer additional opportunities in the sector.

Entry requirements

You will need an APS of 3.5 or more and a minimum of a grade 4 in English Language or Literature.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how children develop physically, cognitively, and emotionally from birth to age five.
  • You'll study the principles of play and how it supports children's learning.
  • You'll learn about safeguarding and child protection responsibilities in early years settings.
  • You'll examine inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.
  • You'll understand the structure and regulation of the early years sector in England.
  • You'll develop knowledge of health, well-being, and nutrition for young children.
  • You'll investigate how families and communities influence children's development.

How you will learn

The BTEC National Extended Certificate combines internal and external assessment. Some units are assessed through assignments and projects marked by your teachers. Others are assessed through externally set and marked tasks or exams set by Pearson Edexcel. Classes are delivered in school during the day over two years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Sacred Heart Catholic High School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery assistant: supporting children's play and learning in a nursery setting.
  • Preschool worker: helping young children develop in a preschool environment.
  • Childminder: providing home-based childcare for children under five.
  • Crèche worker: supervising and engaging children in a crèche setting.
  • Early years teaching assistant: supporting teachers in Reception or Year 1.
  • Playworker: organising and facilitating play for children in various settings.

What you could study next

A Level 3 children's play, learning and development certificate can support applications to university. Relevant degree routes include Early Childhood Studies, Primary Education (with QTS), Speech and Language Therapy, Social Work, and Special Educational Needs. Some learners go on to a Level 5 Foundation Degree in Early Years, which can lead to Early Years Teacher Status. Entry requirements vary by university and course.

Apply on sacredheart-high.org →
Apply now →

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