Free Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Rochdale. Evening classes at Hopwood Hall College let you fit study around your existing commitments. You'll need 4 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English Language and Maths, or a Level 2 qualification in Early Years or Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools. The course runs over 35 weeks part-time, covering child development, safeguarding, and supporting children's learning from birth to five. It meets the early years educator qualification standard recognised in nursery staffing ratios.
Who this course is for
Discover our range of courses at Hopwood Hall College, with entry requirements, progression and course information.
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs grade C/4 or above to include English Language and Mathematics and/or a level 2 qualification in Early Years or Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools.
What you will learn
You'll understand child development from birth to five years
You'll learn how to plan and support children's learning and play
You'll study safeguarding and child protection responsibilities
You'll explore how to work in partnership with parents and carers
You'll develop knowledge of health, safety, and welfare in early years settings
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress
You'll understand inclusion and how to support children with additional needs
How you will learn
Classes are delivered in the classroom at Hopwood Hall College on an evening, part-time basis over 35 weeks. Assessment is through a combination of coursework, observations in practice, and written assignments. You'll build a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your competence across the qualification's units.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Hopwood Hall College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: work in a nursery counted in statutory staffing ratios
Room leader: lead a room within a nursery or pre-school setting
Early years keyworker: take responsibility for a group of children's development
Pre-school assistant: support learning in a pre-school or playgroup
Childminder: work independently caring for children in a home setting
Teaching assistant (early years): support reception-age children in school
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or Early Years: moves you toward senior and management roles in childcare settings.
Early Childhood Studies degree (BA): a university route for those wanting to specialise further or move into advisory, research, or leadership roles.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): a postgraduate route for those aiming to lead practice and work as an early years teacher in a school or nursery.
