Free Level 3 Early Childhood Development Course in Bromley. Classes run at Darrick Wood Sixth Form. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers children's development, the role of play and learning, health and safeguarding, and the research and legislation that shapes early years practice. It draws on psychology, sociology, biology, and English, giving you a broad academic grounding alongside specialist early childhood knowledge. You'll need a grade 4 or above in a written subject to apply. A strong early childhood development qualification for those heading toward university or a career in early years.
Who this course is for
This is an Alternative Academic Qualification designed for students with an interest in Education and Early Years. It spans a variety of subject areas such as Psychology, Sociology, Biology and English. The course will develop a knowledge and understanding of children’s development, the importance of play and learning in development, and health and safeguarding practices. It will also develop knowledge and understanding of how research findings influence legislation, policy and provisions for children. Finally, the course will allow for the development of critical thinking, secondary research and reflective practice skills.
Entry requirements
General entry requirements including 4 in a written subject
What you will learn
You'll explore how children develop physically, cognitively, and emotionally across the early years.
You'll study the role of play and learning in children's development.
You'll examine health and safeguarding practices relevant to working with young children.
You'll analyse how research findings shape legislation, policy, and early years provision.
You'll draw on psychology and sociology to understand child behaviour and family contexts.
You'll develop your understanding of biology as it applies to child development.
You'll build academic writing and analytical skills through the English component of the course.
How you will learn
The course is classroom based, delivered full-time across two years. As a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National, assessment is through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations. You'll produce written coursework responding to set briefs and sit exams in some units. Your teachers will mark coursework against Pearson's criteria, and external assessments are set and marked by Pearson Edexcel.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Darrick Wood Sixth Form will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery assistant: supporting children's learning in nursery settings
Early years practitioner: working in pre-school or childcare provision
Teaching assistant: supporting teachers in primary school classrooms
Childcare worker: providing care in day nurseries or children's centres
Play worker: leading play activities in after-school or holiday clubs
Family support worker: helping families access early years services
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies: a university degree for those wanting to specialise further in child development, policy, or research.
BA (Hons) Primary Education (with QTS): the route into qualified primary school teaching.
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the vocational qualification recognised in statutory nursery staffing ratios, if you want to move into practice rather than higher study.
PGCE or School Direct: for graduates returning to train as teachers later in their career.
