Free Level 3 Early Childhood Development Course in Keighley. Classes run at Keighley College, full-time during the day. You'll need a minimum of four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including Maths or English. The course takes one year and covers the knowledge and skills needed to work with children in schools, nurseries, pre-schools, and children's centres. Work placement is included, giving you hands-on practice with children and young people.
Who this course is for
The programme enables you to gain the knowledge and skills to progress as a assistant teacher in a school or an early years practitioner in a pre-school, children’s centre or day nursery, you could also choose to continue your studies within the education sector. You will undertake work placement as part of your course to gain the practice skills required when working with children and young people.
Entry requirements
You will need a minimum of 4 GCSE’s at Grade 4 or above including
Maths or English. Must committed to working with young
children and their families, be creative and energetic.
To work with children (under 18) or vulnerable adults, students may need to
complete an enhanced check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly
CRB) The college will arrange this for you but if your course is not fully
funded (i.e. you are aged 16-18 or on certain benefits) then you will have to
pay.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth through the early years.
You'll learn how to support children's learning and wellbeing in early years settings.
You'll study how to work alongside teachers and practitioners in schools and nurseries.
You'll gain practical skills through a work placement in a real early years environment.
You'll explore how to engage with children's families and support their needs.
You'll learn safeguarding responsibilities when working with children and young people.
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom at Keighley College, full-time during the day. As a BTEC qualification, assessment is largely coursework-based rather than written exams. You'll complete assignments and projects linked to your units, alongside a work placement where you apply your learning directly with children in an early years setting.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Keighley College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will also need to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before your work placement. The college will arrange this, though a fee may apply depending on your funding status.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery assistant: supporting children's play and learning in a day nursery.
Early years practitioner: working in a pre-school or children's centre.
Teaching assistant: supporting classroom learning in a primary school.
Childcare worker: providing care and activities in a nursery or creche.
Children's centre worker: delivering family support and early years activities.
Playworker: leading play sessions for young children in community settings.
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 qualify as an early years educator.
Level 4 or 5 Higher National Certificate or Degree in Early Childhood Studies: for those looking to move into leadership, management, or teaching roles in the sector.
PGCE or School Direct: for progression into primary school teaching, typically requiring a degree first.
