Free Level 3 Children's Workforce Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You train while working in an early years setting, earning your qualification alongside your job. The course covers working with children from birth to five years, with knowledge extending to age seven. It typically takes 12 months to complete. You'll need to be aged 19 or over, live in the DL or TS postcode area (or within commuting distance of Darlington), and hold at least a Functional Skills English Level 2 qualification or GCSE English grade 4. A full enhanced DBS check is required.
Who this course is for
This qualification is designed for anyone interested in gaining employment as an Early Years Educator, working birth to 5 years and to gain the knowledge to work with children 5-7 years.
Entry requirements
You must be aged 19+, reside in the Darlington or Teesside postcode areas (DL / TS), or within commuting distance of Darlington, have the right to live and work in the UK and lived in the UK or EU continuously for the previous three years before the start of learning. You must complete a full enhanced DBS and references. You must have, or are working towards, at least a Functional Skills English Level 2 qualification or GCSE English grade 4 (old grade C).
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to seven years.
You'll learn how to plan and support play and learning activities for young children.
You'll understand how to observe and assess children's progress.
You'll learn how to support children's communication, language, and literacy development.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
You'll learn how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll develop knowledge of health, wellbeing, and nutrition in early years settings.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in your workplace. You'll build a portfolio of evidence from your day-to-day practice, showing how you meet the requirements of the qualification. Assessment includes observations of your work with children, written assignments, and professional discussions with your assessor. Your assessor will visit you in your setting to observe and support your progress throughout the 12 months.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Learning & Skills Darlington will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children from birth to five in a nursery setting.
Room leader: leading a room or age-group within a nursery.
Early years educator: a level 3 role that counts in statutory staffing ratios.
Childminder: working independently with children in a home setting.
Pre-school assistant: supporting learning in a pre-school or playgroup.
Teaching assistant (early years): supporting reception-age children in school.
What you could study next
Level 5 Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma: moves you toward senior practitioner or management roles in early years settings.
Level 4 Certificate in Early Years Practice: deepens specialist knowledge and supports progression to degree-level study.
Early Childhood Studies degree: for those considering a move into teaching, management, or specialist early years roles.
