Free Level 3 Early Childhood Development Course in New Romney. Classes run at The Marsh Academy. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers child development, care routines, play, and the roles of early years practitioners. You'll explore how children grow and learn, the importance of observation, and how to plan effectively in early years settings. Entry requires a minimum grade 4 in GCSE English Language and a merit in Health and Social Care or Childhood Development at Level 2.
Who this course is for
This course is a vocational qualification designed for students who are interested in working with children and exploring careers in the early years sector. The course provides a strong foundation in child development, care routines, play, and the roles and responsibilities of early years practitioners. Students will gain insight into the factors that influence a child’s development, the importance of observations, and how to plan effectively within early years settings.
Entry requirements
A minimum of a 4 in GCSE language and a merit in either Health and Social Care or Childhood development at Level 2 in addition to the published entry requirements.
What you will learn
You'll understand the key stages of child development from birth onward.
You'll explore care routines and how they support children's wellbeing.
You'll learn the roles and responsibilities of early years practitioners.
You'll examine the factors that influence a child's physical, cognitive, and emotional development.
You'll develop skills in observing children and recording your findings.
You'll learn how to plan activities and experiences within early years settings.
You'll gain insight into how play supports learning and development.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at The Marsh Academy. Assessment for the Pearson BTEC National is a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed components. Assignments are set by Pearson and marked by your teachers, with external assessment tasks completed under timed conditions. Your work is moderated to ensure consistent standards.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Marsh Academy 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 nurseries, pre-schools, or children's centres.
Childminder: providing home-based childcare, subject to registration.
Teaching assistant: supporting children in primary school classrooms.
Playworker: leading play sessions 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 Diploma: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. A natural next step if you want to count toward room ratios.
Level 4 or 5 Higher National in Early Childhood Education: for those moving toward leadership or management roles in early years settings.
BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies: a degree route for those considering teaching, research, or senior practice roles.
