Free Level 3 Early Years Practitioner Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You study while working in an early years setting, putting learning into practice with the children in your care. This is a City and Guilds qualification, and you'll need to be employed in an appropriate childcare role to enrol. The level 3 early years practitioner qualification is recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, making it a significant step for anyone working toward a qualified practitioner role. The course typically takes 11 months.
Who this course is for
Qualification only delivery funded through National Skills Fund, Learner Loan or directly by the learner
Entry requirements
Applications through the website - must be working in the appropriate setting at the correct level.
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 and development.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress.
You'll develop skills in supporting children's communication, language, and literacy.
You'll understand how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll learn about health, wellbeing, and nutrition for young children.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in your workplace. You'll build a portfolio of evidence from your day-to-day practice, observed by an assessor who will visit you on site. Assessment includes professional discussions, observations of your work with children, and written tasks. You must be working in an appropriate early years setting throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Herefordshire College Hereford will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: qualified role counted in statutory ratios
Room leader: leading a room in a nursery or pre-school
Key person: dedicated key worker for a group of children
Pre-school assistant: supporting learning in a pre-school setting
Childminder: registered home-based childcare for young children
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in a Reception class
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare: moves you toward nursery management and leadership roles.
Early Childhood Studies degree: a full undergraduate route for those wanting to work at a higher level in early years education or policy.
Qualified Teacher Status (Early Years): for those who want to teach in a school setting, including Reception classes.
