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Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Darlington – Darlington College

CostFREE
Duration18 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start8 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
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About this course

Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Darlington. Classes run at Darlington College, part-time during the day, one day a week over 18 months.

Fees may apply depending on your circumstances, though the course could be free for eligible learners. Contact Darlington College on 01325 503030 to find out what support is available.

The course prepares you to work with children from birth to 5 years old. You'll build knowledge of child development, safeguarding, and early learning. You'll also gain understanding of children aged 5 to 7 years old. You complete a DBS check as part of the process. You'll finish with the Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator) Diploma at Level 3.

Who this course is for

This qualification prepares you to become an Early Years Educator, which enables you to work with children from birth to 5 years and gain knowledge of children aged 5 to 7 years.

Upon achievement of this qualification, it is intended that learners will be able to enter the workforce as Early Years Educators.

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator)** is a Part-time programme run over 18 months. You will be required to attend college one day a week and a work placement within an early years setting two days a week.

Entry requirements

You will need 4 GCSE subjects with 4 points or C grade and above, including 4 points or C grade in English. Alternatively, progression from a Level 2 Diploma in a relevant subject or relevant industry experience including 4 points or C grade in English

You will be required to complete an enhanced disclosure DBS check.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to 7 years old.
  • You'll learn how to plan and support early learning activities.
  • You'll understand safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.
  • You'll study health, wellbeing, and nutrition for young children.
  • You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress.
  • You'll develop communication skills for working with families and colleagues.
  • You'll understand the legal and statutory frameworks for early years settings.

How you will learn

You'll attend college one day a week for classroom-based sessions. Learning is supported by practical work placements in an early years setting, where you apply your skills with real children. Assessment includes written assignments, observations in the workplace, and a portfolio of evidence. You must also complete an enhanced DBS check before starting your placement.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Darlington College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Early Years Educator, works with children from birth to 5 years old in nurseries or pre-schools.
  • Early Years Practitioner, supports children's learning and development in a childcare setting.
  • Nursery Nurse, cares for and educates young children in a nursery environment.
  • Nursery Room Leader, leads a room team and plans activities for a group of children.
  • Nursery Practitioner, delivers day-to-day childcare and early learning support.
  • Childminder, provides registered childcare for young children in a home setting.

What you could study next

  • Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare, suited to those moving into senior or management roles in early years settings.
  • Early Years Teacher Status, for those who want to lead learning in early years and gain qualified teacher recognition.
  • Level 4 Certificate for Early Years Advanced Practitioners, a step toward specialist or advisory roles in the sector.
Apply on darlington.ac.uk →
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