Free Level 3 Children's Play, Learning and Development Course in South Elmsall. Classes run at Minsthorpe Community College. This is a full-time, two-year children's play, learning and development qualification studied during the day. You'll cover children's development, communication, literacy and numeracy skills, play and learning, and the Early Years Foundation Stage. The course includes a minimum of 50 hours of work experience in a childcare setting. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths.
Who this course is for
You will study the following units: Children’s Development; Development of Children’s Communication, Literacy and Numeracy Skills; Play and Learning; The Early Years Foundation Stage. You will complete some work experience in a childcare setting throughout P16 to a minimum of 50 hours.
Entry requirements
5 GCSE A* - C or 9-4, must include English and Maths at Grade 4 or above
What you will learn
You'll explore how children develop physically, cognitively, and emotionally from birth.
You'll study how children develop communication, literacy, and numeracy skills.
You'll examine the role of play in children's learning and development.
You'll learn about the Early Years Foundation Stage framework and how it shapes practice.
You'll gain hands-on experience in a real childcare setting through at least 50 hours of work placement.
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom at Minsthorpe Community College over two years on a full-time daytime timetable. Assessment combines coursework and practical work. You'll also complete a minimum of 50 hours of work experience in a childcare setting as part of the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Minsthorpe Community College 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.
Childcare worker: caring for young children in a day nursery or creche.
Early years practitioner: working in a pre-school or reception class.
Teaching assistant: supporting children in a primary school environment.
Playworker: leading play activities in after-school or holiday clubs.
Nanny or childminder: providing home-based childcare for families.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator (NVQ or Diploma): the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, and the natural next step if you want to qualify as an Early Years Educator.
Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies: a higher education route for those looking to move into senior practitioner or teaching roles.
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies: a full degree for those aiming toward leadership, management, or teaching in early years settings.
