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Free Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Louth – First College Lincs

CostFREE
Duration18 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryWork based
StartFlexible
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Early Years Educator Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You learn while working in an early years setting, putting skills into practice from day one. The course is designed for learners aged 19 or over. A level 2 qualification in a related area can be helpful, but there are no specific entry requirements. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm the level is right for you. The course typically takes 18 months to complete. This free early years educator qualification is awarded by NCFE.

Who this course is for

This qualification is designed for learners aged 19+ who are preparing to become early years educators.

Entry requirements

Registration is at the discretion of the centre, in accordance with equality legislation. Learners should be aged 19 or over to undertake this qualification.

There are no specific prior skills/knowledge a learner must have for this qualification. However, learners may find it helpful if they have previously achieved a full and relevant level 2 qualification or hold transferable skills preparing learners to study at level 3.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years.
  • You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support children's learning.
  • You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
  • You'll learn how to support children's health, wellbeing, and physical development.
  • You'll develop skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
  • You'll learn how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
  • You'll understand the legal frameworks and statutory guidance that govern early years settings.

How you will learn

Learning takes place in your workplace. You'll build a portfolio of evidence from your day-to-day practice, supported by observations carried out in your setting. Assessment includes professional discussions, written tasks, and evidence of competence gathered on the job. First College Lincs will assign you a workplace assessor who visits you in your setting throughout the 18-month programme.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery practitioner: working directly with children aged 0 to 5
  • Room leader: leading a room within a nursery or pre-school
  • Early years keyworker: providing key-person care in a nursery setting
  • Pre-school assistant: supporting learning in a pre-school environment
  • Childminder: registered self-employed childcare in a home setting
  • Forest school assistant: outdoor learning support for young children

What you could study next

  • Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or a Foundation Degree in Early Years: for those moving into senior or management roles in early years settings.
  • Early Childhood Studies degree (BA): a full undergraduate route for those aiming toward advisory, leadership, or specialist roles.
  • Level 3 Award in Education and Training: useful if you want to move into training or mentoring other early years staff.
Apply on firstcollegelincs.co.uk →
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