Free Level 3 Children's Play, Learning and Development Course in Saint Helens. Classes run at Cowley International College. This full-time, two-year children's play, learning and development qualification covers the care, learning, and development of children and young people. You'll work with specialist equipment including interactive infant simulators and pregnancy simulators, giving you hands-on experience alongside classroom study. To enrol, you'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English Language, plus a college interview. The level 3 children's play, learning and development classes are assessed through a combination of coursework and external examinations.
Who this course is for
The aim of the Children's Play, Learning and Development course is to provide learners with the opportunity to learn about the care, learning and development of children. Students will have the opportunity to develop their skills and the knowledge necessary to work with children and young people.
Entry requirements
5 GCSEs or equivalent, grade 9 - 4, including Maths and English Language
What you will learn
You'll explore how children grow, learn, and develop from birth through to young adulthood.
You'll study the factors that affect children's health, wellbeing, and development.
You'll develop practical skills for working with children and young people in care and education settings.
You'll learn how to support children's play and learning in age-appropriate ways.
You'll use specialist equipment, including interactive infant simulators, to build hands-on understanding.
You'll examine safeguarding principles and the responsibilities of those working with children.
How you will learn
You'll study in a classroom setting over two years, full-time. Assessment combines coursework and external examinations. The course includes practical, vocational elements alongside written work, and you'll have access to specialist equipment such as interactive babies, a pregnancy simulator, and model infants used to demonstrate health and development scenarios.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Cowley International College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Early years educator: supporting children's learning in nursery or reception settings.
Classroom assistant: working alongside teachers in primary schools.
Nursery worker: day-to-day care and activities for young children.
Childcare worker: supporting children in private or community childcare settings.
Children's residential support worker: caring for children in residential settings.
Play worker: planning and supervising play activities for children.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator (NVQ or Diploma): the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, if you want to count toward those ratios.
Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies or Education: a two-year higher education route, often available part-time.
BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies or Primary Education: a full degree leading toward teaching or senior roles in early years and education.
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training: if you're interested in teaching or training others.
