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Free Level 3 Early Childhood Development Course in Doncaster

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Early Childhood Development Course in Doncaster. Classes run at Ridgewood School, full-time over two years.

The course covers child development theory, the sectors that work with young children, and the factors that shape how children grow and learn. It counts as the equivalent of one A level and sits alongside other Level 3 subjects as part of a broader study programme. You'll explore how different professional settings support children at each stage of development.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Certificate in Early Childhood Development.

Who this course is for

  • Studying Childhood development Level 3 National AAQ will provide an introduction to

the different sectors and the importance of the development of children.

  • It is for students who are interested in learning about the working sectors in childhood

as part of a balanced study programme. It is equivalent to one A level.

  • The qualification supports access to a range of higher education courses, but not exclusively in Early childhood development, if taken alongside further Level 3 qualifications.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the stages of child development from birth through early childhood.
  • You'll study the different professional sectors that work with and support young children.
  • You'll learn about the factors that influence children's physical, cognitive, and emotional development.
  • You'll examine how early years settings plan and deliver care and learning.
  • You'll develop knowledge of safeguarding and the welfare requirements that protect children.
  • You'll build an understanding of how to observe and assess children's progress.

How you will learn

The BTEC format combines coursework assignments with external assessment. You'll complete units through classroom study, research tasks, and written assignments. Some units are assessed internally through your work over the course. Others are assessed through external exams or set tasks. Teaching takes place during the day at Ridgewood School as part of a full-time sixth form programme.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Ridgewood School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Early years assistant, supports children's learning in a nursery or pre-school setting.
  • Nursery assistant, helps plan and deliver daily activities for young children.
  • Early years educator, works toward a key role in a registered childcare setting.
  • Childcare worker, provides care and support for children in various settings.
  • Teaching assistant, supports classroom learning in a primary school environment.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Early Years Educator Qualification, the vocational route recognised in statutory nursery staffing ratios.
  • A levels in related subjects such as Psychology or Health and Social Care, to broaden your university application.
  • Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies or Education, a higher education route into teaching or senior childcare roles.
  • BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies, for those aiming toward graduate-level roles in education or child development.
Apply on ridgewoodschool.co.uk →
Apply now →

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