Free Level 3 Early Childhood Development Course at Hillview School for Girls in Tonbridge. This full-time, daytime course covers the care and education of children aged 0 to 8, giving you a broad grounding in the early years sector alongside your other sixth form studies. You'll need at least Grade 4 in both GCSE English Language and Maths, plus three other GCSEs at Grade 4 or above. The course runs over two years. It's designed to support progression to higher education, including courses beyond early years.
Who this course is for
The Extended Certificate is for students who are interested in learning about the children s care and education sector (0-8 years) alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in early years-related subjects. This course presents a broad basis of study of the early years sector.
Entry requirements
General entry minimum requirements to study three Level 3 qualifications for Hillview Sixth Form are Grade 4 in both English Language and Maths together with 3 other GCSE grades at Grade 4 or above. Any students meeting the above criteria is eligible for this course.
What you will learn
You'll explore child development from birth to age 8, covering key stages and milestones.
You'll study approaches to care and education in early years settings.
You'll examine how children learn through play and structured activities.
You'll look at safeguarding, health, and wellbeing in early childhood contexts.
You'll consider the roles of families, practitioners, and wider society in children's development.
You'll develop skills in research and analysis relevant to higher education study.
How you will learn
The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Certificate is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations. You'll complete coursework tasks set and marked by the centre, alongside exams set and marked by Pearson. Classes are delivered in person at Hillview School for Girls during the school day.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Hillview School for Girls will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged 0 to 5 in a nursery setting.
Nursery assistant: supporting qualified staff in early years classrooms.
Childcare worker: providing care in day nurseries or children's centres.
Teaching assistant: supporting children in primary school environments.
Play worker: leading play-based activities in after-school or holiday clubs.
Early years apprentice: combining work and further training toward a full qualification.
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies: a degree for those wanting to work professionally in early years or move into teaching.
BA (Hons) Primary Education (with QTS): leads to qualified teacher status for primary schools.
Foundation Degree in Early Years: a work-based higher education route into practitioner roles.
Level 3 Early Years Educator Diploma: if you want to qualify as an early years educator counted in statutory staffing ratios, this NVQ-style qualification is the recognised route.
