Free Level 3 Children's Play, Learning and Development (Early Years Educator) Course in Basildon. Classes run at The Basildon Academies Sixth Form. To join, you'll need a Level 2 BTEC CPLD or equivalent at Merit or above, plus a grade 4 or higher in English. Over two years of full-time daytime study, you'll build specialist knowledge in child development, play, and early years practice. The children's play, learning and development qualification is the Pearson Edexcel BTEC and is recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work.
Who this course is for
This course is designed for those students who have an interest in directly progressing to a career as an Early Years Educator or onto Higher Education. It is for any student wanting to specialise in working with children and their development.
Entry requirements
Level 2 BTEC CPLD or equivalent and Merit or above or Grade 4 in English is required.
What you will learn
You'll study how children develop physically, cognitively, and emotionally from birth to age five.
You'll learn how to plan and support play-based learning activities.
You'll explore how to observe and assess children's progress.
You'll understand safeguarding, child protection legislation, and your duty of care.
You'll learn how to support children's communication, language, and literacy development.
You'll study how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll develop knowledge of inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at The Basildon Academies Sixth Form, combined with assessed work placements in early years settings. Assessment includes assignments, projects, and practical observation in placement. The BTEC format means most assessment is coursework-based rather than written exams, with units assessed throughout the two years.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Basildon Academies Sixth Form 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 within a nursery setting
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in Reception or Year 1
Childminder: running your own registered childcare provision
Playworker: supporting children's play in out-of-school settings
Family support worker: working with families and young children in the community
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies: a degree route for those wanting to move into leadership, research, or teaching.
Early Childhood Education and Care Foundation Degree: a work-based higher education route often taken alongside employment in a nursery.
Level 5 Leadership and Management in Care: for those moving into senior or management roles in early years settings.
Qualified Teacher Status (Primary): for those aiming to teach in primary schools.
