Free Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Bedford. Classes run at Bedford College, part-time during the day. This early years educator qualification covers child development, safeguarding, learning through play, and supporting children from birth to five. It's structured to fit around other commitments, with daytime sessions that don't require full-time study. Level 3 Early Years Educator is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery and early years settings, making it a genuine step into professional childcare work. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm the course is the right level for you.
Who this course is for
Course Summary can be found on the course page of the website
Entry requirements
Entry requirements can be found on the course page of the website
What you will learn
You'll understand how children develop physically, socially, and emotionally from birth to five.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver play-based activities that support early learning.
You'll know how to keep children safe, including safeguarding procedures and risk assessment.
You'll develop skills in observing and recording children's progress.
You'll learn how to support children's communication, language, and literacy development.
You'll understand how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll cover equality, diversity, and inclusion in early years settings.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Bedford College, combining taught input with practical tasks and discussion. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice in an early years setting, and a portfolio of evidence. Work placement in a childcare setting is a core part of the course, giving you hands-on experience alongside your classroom learning.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bedford College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery Practitioner: work in a nursery as a qualified early years educator
Room Leader: lead a room in a nursery or pre-school setting
Nursery Nurse: support children's care and learning day to day
Pre-school Practitioner: work in a pre-school or playgroup setting
Early Years Teaching Assistant: support learning in a Reception class
Childminder: run your own registered childcare provision at home
What you could study next
Early Childhood Studies Degree (Level 4 and above): a university route for those wanting to move into leadership, research, or specialist roles in early years.
Level 3 Award in Early Years Special Educational Needs Coordination: for practitioners wanting to take on a SENCO role in their setting.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for those aiming to lead practice and qualify as an Early Years Teacher through a graduate training route.
