Free Level 3 Early Childhood Development Course in Gateshead. Classes run at Cardinal Hume Catholic School. This is a two-year, full-time daytime course for students who have already completed a vocational early years qualification at Merit grade or above. You'll study child development, learning environments, and the factors that shape children's early lives. The course covers the knowledge and skills that underpin work in early years and childcare settings. A level 3 early childhood development qualification at this depth also supports progression to higher education in education, health, or social care.
Who this course is for
For students who have sat Vocational Early Years and achieved a Merit or above
Entry requirements
Vocational Grade of Merit or Above in Subject Area
What you will learn
You'll explore how children develop physically, cognitively, and emotionally from birth to age eight.
You'll examine the factors that support or affect healthy child development.
You'll study how early years practitioners plan and deliver learning experiences.
You'll learn about safeguarding, welfare, and the legal frameworks that protect children.
You'll investigate the role of play in children's learning and development.
You'll develop understanding of how to support children with additional needs.
You'll build knowledge of how families and communities influence early childhood outcomes.
How you will learn
The BTEC Extended Certificate is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed tasks set by Pearson Edexcel. Internally assessed units are completed through coursework, projects, and portfolio evidence produced in class. External assessments are sat under exam conditions at set points in the course. Teaching is classroom based, with full-time daytime attendance across two years at Cardinal Hume Catholic School.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Cardinal Hume Catholic School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery assistant: supporting children's learning in a nursery setting.
Childcare worker: day-to-day care and activities in a childcare setting.
Teaching assistant: supporting pupils in primary school classrooms.
Early years practitioner: working in pre-school or reception-age provision.
Playworker: leading play-based activities in after-school or holiday clubs.
Family support worker: helping families access early years services.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator (NVQ or Diploma): the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work; a natural next step if you want to qualify as an Early Years Educator.
BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies or Education: the BTEC National is accepted by many universities as an entry qualification for degree-level study in education, health, or social care.
Level 4 or 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Early Childhood: a higher-level vocational route if you prefer to stay in further education before moving into degree study.
